Fire is a critical concern in rental property management. Even with preparations like requiring fire insurance, a fire can cause significant damage.
To minimize losses, installing fire extinguishers as an effective fire prevention measure is essential.
Furthermore, for apartments and condominiums, fire extinguishers must also be placed in common areas.
However, with so many types of fire extinguishers available, many people struggle to know which one to choose.
This article introduces the types of fire extinguishers, the optimal extinguisher type by fire class, and recommended extinguishers.
If you're having trouble choosing a fire extinguisher, please read through to the end.
There Are Many Types of Fire Extinguishers!
First, let's look at the types of fire extinguishers.
Fire extinguishers can be categorized by installation location, discharge mechanism, and the extinguishing agent used.
We'll cover each in detail below.
The Right Extinguisher Varies by Location
Fire extinguishers come in two types depending on their intended use.
There are "residential fire extinguishers" and "commercial fire extinguishers." It is common practice to install residential extinguishers in rental units and commercial extinguishers in the common areas of apartments and condominiums.
Residential fire extinguishers are lighter and easier to use than commercial ones.
As we'll explain in more detail later, each type has its own distinct features and advantages.
To start, keep these two categories in mind when choosing the right extinguisher for your needs.
Two Types of Discharge Mechanisms
Pressure is essential for discharging a fire extinguisher.
While there are various ways to apply pressure, the two mechanisms used in fire extinguishers are the "stored-pressure type" and the "cartridge-operated (pressurized) type."
Understanding these two mechanisms will help you decide which one to install.
Let's take a look at the characteristics of each.
The Cartridge-Operated Type: Pressure-Discharged
A key feature of cartridge-operated extinguishers is the gas cartridge housed inside the unit.
When the handle is squeezed, the cartridge is punctured, releasing gas at that moment.
The released gas travels through a tube and spreads throughout the extinguisher, pushing the extinguishing agent out through the nozzle.
With cartridge-operated extinguishers, pressure continues until the extinguishing agent is depleted, so discharge cannot be stopped midway.
Additionally, if the body shows signs of deterioration, there is a risk of sudden rupture due to rapid pressure buildup, so caution is required.
Fire extinguishers have an expiration date printed on them, so be sure to replace them accordingly.
Note that even before the expiration date, rust or dents can lead to unexpected accidents.
Storing extinguishers in a protective cabinet is also important to prevent accelerated deterioration.
The Stored-Pressure Type: Pre-Charged with Gas
Stored-pressure extinguishers come pre-charged with both gas and extinguishing agent from the outset.
Squeezing the lever opens a valve, and the pressure pushes out the extinguishing agent.
At first glance, this may seem similar to the cartridge-operated type.
However, because stored-pressure extinguishers maintain constant pressure, the risk of rupture is low even if the unit has deteriorated, making them safer.
Furthermore, compared to cartridge-operated types, less force is needed to operate the lever, making them easy to use for the elderly and women.
The ability to stop discharge simply by releasing the lever is another feature unique to stored-pressure extinguishers.
As such, stored-pressure extinguishers are becoming the mainstream choice due to their many advantages over cartridge-operated models.
Types Also Differ by Extinguishing Agent
Fire extinguishers are often categorized by location and mechanism, but they can also be categorized by the extinguishing agent used.
Since the optimal extinguishing agent differs by fire class, it is recommended to have a solid understanding of each.
Let's look at the characteristics and suitable fire types for each extinguishing agent.
ABC Dry Powder Extinguisher
This extinguisher uses a powdered agent and is considered the most widely used type.
When discharged, the agent melts over the burning surface, cutting off the oxygen supply and enabling rapid extinguishment.
However, because the agent does not penetrate and extinguish the material, there is a possibility of re-ignition with materials like wood.
Other drawbacks include a relatively short discharge time and range, reduced visibility during use, and the difficulty of property restoration due to the chemical residue.
Loaded Stream Extinguisher
Compared to dry powder extinguishers, this type offers higher penetration and cooling effects.
The discharge time and range are also relatively longer, and the colorless, transparent agent makes cleanup easier — these are also notable advantages.
However, dry powder extinguishers are superior in terms of extinguishing speed, and loaded stream extinguishers tend to be more expensive.
Neutral Loaded Stream Extinguisher
The neutral loaded stream extinguisher uses a neutral-type extinguishing agent, which means it can extinguish fires with less staining and corrosion than standard loaded stream extinguishers.
It extinguishes fires through smothering and cooling effects and also has high penetration.
Neutral loaded stream extinguishers are said to be more effective when used in combination with dry powder extinguishers.
Water (with Wetting Agent) Extinguisher
The water extinguisher uses pure water mixed with a wetting agent as its extinguishing agent.
Because it is water-based, it has the advantage of minimizing contamination after firefighting.
High penetration and re-ignition prevention are also characteristics of water extinguishers.
However, they may not be suitable for certain fire classes, so caution is required.
Mechanical Foam Extinguisher
The mechanical foam extinguisher covers the burning surface with foam, smothering and cooling the fire.
The foam adheres to walls and ceilings for an extended period, allowing for more effective smothering and cooling.
In fact, foam is said to have more than twice the extinguishing effect of water.
While water damage is reduced, the cleanup itself is considered a drawback.
Carbon Dioxide Extinguisher
Carbon dioxide extinguishers use CO₂ as the extinguishing agent.
When discharged onto the burning surface, the oxygen around the flames is displaced, extinguishing the fire.
CO₂ is a gas that is resistant to chemical reactions and leaves no water or chemical residue, which is why it is used in many fire situations.
However, when used in an enclosed, small, or poorly ventilated room, there is a risk of carbon dioxide poisoning.
Since this can lead to fatal accidents, great care must be taken when using this type of extinguisher.
Learn About Simple Fire Extinguishing Devices Too
The "aerosol-type simple fire extinguisher," which is more convenient than a residential fire extinguisher, is lightweight, easy to hold, and simple to operate.
Its structure is the same as a common hairspray, so there is a high chance you can respond calmly even in an emergency.
However, since the discharge time is very short — around 10 seconds — it is important to keep in mind that this is a device intended for initial fire suppression only.
As its capability is inferior to residential fire extinguishers, it is not ideal as a standalone extinguisher for a rental property. It is recommended to install residential or commercial extinguishers and supplement them by informing tenants about the aerosol device at move-in.
The Right Extinguisher Differs by Fire Class
Fires are broadly divided into three classes.
Using the appropriate extinguisher for each class allows for more effective firefighting.
Here we introduce the appropriate extinguisher for each fire class.
Fires Involving Wood, Paper, and Fabric
Fires involving wood, paper, fabric, rubber, and resin are called "ordinary fires" or "Class A fires."
Most fire extinguishers can be used for ordinary fires.
The particularly suitable extinguishers are "dry powder extinguishers" and "neutral loaded stream extinguishers."
However, carbon dioxide extinguishers alone are not suitable for ordinary fires.
Fires Involving Petroleum and Oils
Fires involving gasoline, kerosene, tempura oil, and similar substances are "oil fires" or "Class B fires."
Suitable extinguishers for oil fires are "loaded stream extinguishers" and "mechanical foam extinguishers."
The extinguisher not suitable for oil fires is the water (with wetting agent) extinguisher.
Carbon dioxide extinguishers can also be used, but not for tempura oil fires.
Fires Involving Electrical Equipment
Fires involving live electrical outlets and similar sources are called "electrical fires" or "Class C fires."
The extinguisher for electrical fires is the "water (with wetting agent) extinguisher."
The extinguisher not suitable for electrical fires is the mechanical foam extinguisher.
Differences Between Commercial and Residential Extinguishers
To distinguish between commercial and residential extinguishers, check the label on the extinguisher.
Here we look at the characteristics of both commercial and residential fire extinguishers.
Characteristics of Commercial Fire Extinguishers
Commercial fire extinguishers are used in buildings, restaurants, and stalls where installation is required by law.
They have higher extinguishing capacity than residential extinguishers.
For apartments and condominiums, commercial fire extinguishers must be installed in common areas.
In addition to regular inspections by the property owner, legally mandated inspections by qualified personnel may also be required.
Furthermore, regulations require that at least 25% of the container's surface area be red.
The service life is 8 years or more, and the extinguishing agent can be refilled.
Where installation of extinguishers is mandated, "commercial fire extinguishers" must be installed without exception.
Note that installing a residential extinguisher in such locations does not count as compliance, so be careful.
Characteristics of Residential Fire Extinguishers
Residential fire extinguishers use the stored-pressure type and are often compact, making them easy to operate for the elderly and women.
Many are effective against tempura oil fires and kerosene heater fires, but many people choose the versatile ABC extinguisher that handles all fire classes.
Also, there are no regulations on body color, so you can choose a design that blends into your home decor.
Of course, applicable fire types are also shown using illustrations, so even non-specialists can quickly determine the right use.
However, the service life is approximately 5 years — shorter than commercial extinguishers — and the agent cannot be refilled.
How to Inspect Fire Extinguishers for Safe Use
Installing a fire extinguisher is meaningless if it cannot be used in an emergency.
However, some extinguishers may have initial defects or develop malfunctions due to various causes and become unusable.
It is important to conduct inspections and regular checks to ensure proper functioning when needed.
Here we introduce the key points to check.
Body Container
・Is the extinguishing agent leaking?
・Is the extinguishing agent clumped? (Check by shaking)
・Is the container deformed, damaged, or corroded?
If deformation or damage poses a risk to functionality, or if rust is flaking off, the extinguisher must be discarded.
Safety Pin
・Is the safety pin seal securely attached?
・Is there any deformation or damage that would interfere with operation?
If any abnormality is found in the safety pin, the part must be replaced.
Discharge Indicator
Fire extinguishers have a discharge indicator to confirm whether they have been used.
The discharge indicator is designed to fall off when the handle is squeezed.
If it has activated despite the extinguisher not being used, the unit should be replaced or discarded.
Trigger and Lever
・Is there any deformation or damage?
・Is it securely set in place?
Also carefully check for rust or corrosion on the inside of the lever.
Cap
・Is there any deformation or damage?
・Is there any looseness or misalignment?
・Are the threads misaligned?
If a pressure release valve is present, the seal may be detached or torn.
In that case, also check for looseness of the pressure release valve.
Hose
・Is there any deformation, damage, or deterioration?
・Is there any blockage inside?
・Is there any looseness or misalignment?
It is very dangerous if scratches or cracks extend to the inside of the hose.
Also check carefully for changes in rubber quality.
Confirm whether the hose has enough resilience to recover from deformation or crushing.
Nozzle / Horn
・Is there any deformation, damage, or deterioration?
・Is there any blockage inside?
・Is the nozzle plug in place?
For carbon dioxide extinguishers, also check that the horn grip has not fallen off.
Additionally, if there is a sealing disk between the nozzle and horn, the disk may be torn or loose.
If a sealing disk is present, confirm that point carefully as well.
Pressure Gauge
・Is there any deformation or damage?
・Is the reading within the green zone?
・Is extinguishing agent leaking inside the pressure gauge?
The pressure gauge is only installed on stored-pressure extinguishers.
If the needle points within the green zone, the extinguisher is safe to use.
If it points outside the range, the extinguishing agent level must be inspected.
Mandatory Pressure Performance Inspection
On April 1, 2011, ministerial ordinance revisions related to fire extinguishers came into effect.
Due to the revision of inspection standards, extinguishers that have passed 10 years since manufacture are now required to undergo a "pressure performance inspection / hydraulic pressure test."
The pressure performance inspection involves applying a specified water pressure to the extinguisher and checking for deformation, damage, water leakage, and other issues.
Here we explain the background of the inspection standard revision and the pressure performance inspection procedure.
What Is the Mandatory Fire Extinguisher Pressure Performance Inspection?
The background to the mandatory fire extinguisher pressure performance inspection lies in a series of fire extinguisher rupture accidents.
In 2009 in Osaka, an elementary school student was injured in an accident caused by the rupture of a deteriorated fire extinguisher.
This incident triggered efforts to remove abandoned extinguishers, but during that process, extinguishers ruptured again and caused a series of injuries.
The danger of deteriorated extinguishers in everyday settings became a serious concern, leading to the regulatory revision to prevent accidents.
The timing of required inspections varies depending on the number of years elapsed since each extinguisher was manufactured.
The manufacturing year and inspection timing are as follows.
・Fire extinguishers that have passed 10 years since manufacture require a pressure performance inspection.
・Extinguishers that had already passed 10 years at the time of the ordinance's enforcement must undergo a pressure test within a 3-year grace period.
(Inspection is also required every 3 years after that.)
・Old-standard extinguishers manufactured before 2011 became unusable as of January 1, 2022.
However, even during periods when inspections are not otherwise required, an inspection is necessary if the extinguisher body shows corrosion or if there is an abnormality in the safety pin upon visual inspection.
[By Extinguisher Type] Pressure Performance Inspection Procedures
What exactly is checked during a pressure performance inspection?
The items checked differ depending on the type of extinguisher and its pressurization method.
Here we introduce the pressure performance inspection procedure for each extinguisher type.
Cartridge-Operated Extinguishers (Excluding Chemical Foam)
1. For extinguishers whose agent quantity is indicated by mass (weight), measure the total mass and confirm the extinguishing agent quantity.
2. For units with a pressure release valve, open it; for units without one, slowly open the cap to fully release the internal pressure through the pressure relief hole.
3. Remove the cap, then take out the cartridge holder and gas cartridge.
4. For extinguishers whose agent quantity is indicated by volume, confirm the level matches the liquid level indicator.
5. Transfer the extinguishing agent to a separate container. (Water-based agents go into a bucket; powder agents go into a plastic bag.)
6. Clean the inside and outside of the extinguisher with an air blower or similar tool, and check for corrosion or detachment of rust-prevention material on both surfaces.
7. Detach the hose and gas cartridge, and pull out the safety pin.
8. Remove the powder-rise prevention disk.
9. Fill the extinguisher with tap water to capacity, squeeze the lever, and tighten the cap in that state.
10. Firmly attach the hydraulic test connector to the hose connection so it does not come loose.
11. Apply the protective frame and check all tightened and connected sections for leaks.
12. Gradually increase the pressure while monitoring the gauge, avoiding sudden pressure surges, up to the pressure resistance test value (specified water pressure) indicated on the body.
13. Apply the pressure resistance test value (specified water pressure) for 5 minutes and confirm there is no deformation, damage, or leakage.
14. Release the water pressure through the pressure release valve of the hydraulic tester.
15. Confirm the gauge needle reads "0," then drain the water from the extinguisher.
16. Clean moisture from the body container and parts using rags or an air blower.
17. Confirm there is no moisture on the body container or parts, check for paint film peeling, reassemble the parts, and refill the extinguishing agent.
Cartridge-Operated Extinguishers / Chemical Foam Extinguishers
1. Remove the cap and take out the inner cylinder.
2. Confirm the extinguishing agent level matches the liquid level indicator.
3. Transfer the extinguishing agent to a separate container such as a bucket.
4. Wash the inside and outside of the extinguisher, the inner cylinder, cap, hose, nozzle, and filter with water.
5. Check the inner and outer surfaces of the extinguisher body for corrosion or detachment of rust-prevention material.
6. Remove the hose from the extinguisher.
7. Fill the extinguisher body with tap water to capacity and tighten the cap.
8. Firmly attach the hydraulic test connector to the hose connection so it does not come loose.
9. Apply the protective frame to the extinguisher and connect the hydraulic tester.
10. Operate the hydraulic tester, confirm there are no leaks at tightened and connected sections, and gradually increase the pressure while monitoring the gauge up to the specified water pressure indicated on the body, avoiding sudden pressure surges.
11. Apply the specified water pressure to the body container and cap for 5 minutes and confirm there is no deformation, damage, or leakage.
12. Release the water pressure through the pressure release valve of the hydraulic tester.
13. Confirm the gauge needle reads "0," then drain the water from the extinguisher.
14. Clean moisture from the body container and parts using rags or an air blower.
15. Confirm there is no moisture on the body container or parts, check for paint film peeling, reassemble the parts, and refill the extinguishing agent.
Stored-Pressure Type Extinguishers
1. For extinguishers whose agent quantity is indicated by mass (weight), measure the total mass and confirm the extinguishing agent quantity.
2. Confirm the pressure gauge needle points within the green zone.
3. For extinguishers with a pressure release valve, open it; for those without one, turn the unit upside down, gradually squeeze the lever, and fully release the internal pressure. (Or release internal pressure through the pressure relief hole.)
4. Confirm the pressure gauge needle reads "0," then remove the cap or valve body from the container.
5. Transfer the extinguishing agent to a separate container such as a plastic bag.
6. Clean the inside and outside of the extinguisher with an air blower or similar tool, and check for corrosion or detachment of rust-prevention material on both surfaces.
7. Remove the hose from the extinguisher.
8. Fill the body container with tap water to capacity, squeeze the lever, and tighten the cap in that state.
9. Firmly attach the hydraulic test connector to the hose connection so it does not come loose.
10. Apply the protective frame to the extinguisher and connect the hydraulic tester.
11. Operate the hydraulic tester, confirm there are no leaks at tightened and connected sections, and gradually increase the pressure while monitoring the gauge up to the specified water pressure indicated on the body, avoiding sudden pressure surges.
12. Apply the specified water pressure to the body container and cap for 5 minutes and confirm there is no deformation, damage, or leakage.
13. Release the water pressure through the pressure release valve of the hydraulic tester.
14. Confirm the gauge needle reads "0," then drain the water from the extinguisher.
15. Clean moisture from the body container and parts using rags or an air blower.
※ For dry powder extinguishers, moisture is strictly prohibited — dry thoroughly using dry compressed air or similar means.
16. Inspect each part and confirm there is no paint film peeling inside the body container.
5 Key Points for Choosing a Residential Fire Extinguisher
Residential fire extinguishers can be purchased at home improvement stores and online retailers.
With many types and different intended uses, many people find it difficult to decide which to choose.
Here we introduce key points for selecting a recommended residential fire extinguisher.
When choosing a residential fire extinguisher, keep the following 5 points in mind.
・Choose one that matches your "intended use"
・Choose one that "covers all fire classes"
・Check the "extinguishing capacity"
・Choose one with the "National Certification Mark" approved by the Japan Fire Equipment Inspection Institute
・Consider "design aesthetics"
We'll cover each of these points below.
Choose the Agent Type That Matches Your Intended Use
Residential fire extinguishers come in three types: "powder," "liquid (loaded stream)," and "aerosol-type simple extinguisher."
Understand the features of each and choose the type that suits your needs.
・The "powder type" extinguisher: low cost and lightweight
The powder type, with its high extinguishing power, disperses powder over a wide area to suppress flames.
It is more affordable and lighter than the liquid type, making it easy to obtain.
However, its penetration is lower than the liquid type, so fires involving fabric or wood may re-ignite.
It is a good idea to use the powder type for initial suppression and keep a liquid type on hand to prevent re-ignition.
The powder type scatters powder over a wide area, which can obstruct vision and hinder firefighting and evacuation.
Also keep in mind that cleanup after use can be time-consuming.
・The "liquid type" extinguisher: high extinguishing capacity and easy to use indoors
Unlike the powder type, it has a cooling effect on the target material.
It reduces the possibility of re-ignition and does not obstruct vision, allowing you to discharge precisely at the fire source while keeping it in sight.
However, it has the disadvantage of slower extinguishing speed compared to the powder type.
Many liquid type extinguishers weigh nearly twice as much as powder types, so choose a size you can handle easily.
・The easy-to-use spray-type "aerosol-type simple extinguisher"
If ease of use is a priority, a lightweight spray type is recommended.
It is used the same way as a hairspray, so you can use it without hesitation even if you are panicking during a fire.
Also, its compact size makes it suitable for the bedroom, living room, or kitchen.
There are also wall-mountable types, which are recommended for those who want to save space.
However, its smaller size means lower extinguishing power compared to powder or liquid types.
Think of it as a supplementary extinguisher.
・"Fire suppression balls and fire blankets" — supplementary items anyone can use
If you already have a powder or liquid type extinguisher, check out useful supplementary options as well.
Fire suppression balls and fire blankets are easy to use and can be handled by children and the elderly.
They are not suitable for large-scale fires, but their ease of instant use makes them convenient to have around.
Fire blankets are placed over the fire source, such as a pot.
They have no expiration date and do not need to be replaced.
Fire suppression balls are thrown at the fire source, bursting to suppress the flames.
They come in a water-based type and a type containing liquid effective against oil fires.
For kitchen fires such as tempura oil, choose the oil fire type.
Choose an Extinguisher That Covers All Fire Classes
Fire extinguishers are rated for specific fire classes depending on the product.
The side of the unit is labeled "A, B, C fire" along with the applicable category: "ordinary fire," "oil fire," or "electrical fire."
During a fire, you will be in a panic and may not have the presence of mind to check which fire class your extinguisher covers.
Therefore, it is recommended to choose an extinguisher that covers all fire classes from the start.
Check the Extinguishing Capacity
If you want high extinguishing capacity, check the amount of extinguishing agent.
Generally, products with more extinguishing agent and longer discharge time are considered to have higher capacity.
However, more agent means larger size and greater weight.
Heavier extinguishers are harder to maneuver, so visit a home improvement store and try holding one before buying.
For reference, model numbers are determined by agent quantity as follows:
Type 3 (1.0 kg), Type 4 (1.2 kg), Type 5 (1.5 kg), Type 6 (2.0 kg), Type 10 (3.0/3.5 kg), Type 20 (6.0 kg).
Check the Expiration Date, "National Certification Mark," and "NS Mark"
To use your fire extinguisher safely, check the expiration date and certification marks.
Products that have been inspected and approved by the Japan Fire Equipment Inspection Institute bear a certification mark.
These products meet the standards for extinguishing capacity and are quality-assured.
When purchasing a fire extinguisher, choose one with the NS mark.
Choose a Design That Blends Into Your Interior
Commercial fire extinguishers are subject to regulations requiring at least 25% of the body to be red.
However, there are no color regulations for residential fire extinguishers.
If you hide a red extinguisher in the back of a room because it stands out, you won't be able to reach it quickly in an emergency.
It is advisable to place extinguishers in a visible and easily accessible location in the room.
Therefore, it is recommended to choose an extinguisher in a color or design that blends into your room's interior.
Residential fire extinguishers come in a wide variety of colors and some even feature character-based designs.
[Peace of Mind] Keep a Spare Emergency Supply in a Separate Location
Having a fire extinguisher enables smooth initial firefighting and helps prevent major damage.
However, if the fire source is close to where the extinguisher is stored, you may not be able to reach it, potentially allowing the damage to spread.
To prevent such situations, it is important to prepare spare emergency supplies.
As a precaution, it is recommended to place a compact extinguisher near the kitchen stove and a slightly larger loaded stream extinguisher near the entrance.
In this article, we introduced the types of fire extinguishers, their differences, and recommended extinguisher types for installation in rental properties.
Even within residential fire extinguishers, there is a wide variety, and sizes and applicable fire classes differ, so it is necessary to choose the right extinguisher before installation.
To avoid usage problems in an emergency, please refer to this article to choose the extinguisher best suited to your property.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fire Extinguishers in Rental Properties
Q1. Is fire extinguisher installation required by law?
The Fire Services Act requires fire extinguisher installation in multi-unit residential buildings with a total floor area of 150 m² or more. Installation is also recommended for smaller buildings.
Q2. What is the service life of a fire extinguisher?
The service life is approximately 10 years from manufacture for commercial extinguishers and 5 years for residential extinguishers. Replace expired extinguishers promptly.
Q3. Which should I choose: cartridge-operated or stored-pressure?
Stored-pressure extinguishers are recommended. They offer advantages such as the ability to stop discharge midway and a lower risk of rupture, and they are now the mainstream choice.
