Fires in the kitchen are a serious safety concern for homeowners. Kitchen fires are one of the leading causes of residential fires and losses. However, having the right fire extinguisher on hand can mean the difference between a minor incident and a devastating one.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll review the top 5 kitchen fire extinguisher options currently on the market. We’ll also share helpful tips to ensure your home and family always remain safe.

The Best Kitchen Fire Extinguisher

1. First Alert HOME1 Rechargeable Standard Home Fire Extinguisher

First Alert is a reputable household brand that’s trusted by millions of people to keep their homes safe in the event of a fire.

The First Alert HOME1 Rechargeable Standard Home Fire Extinguisher is rated 1-A:10-B:C, making it multi-purpose for any kind of fire — whether it involves paper, gasoline, plastic, wood, thrash, oil, or electrical.

This fire extinguisher stands out for its durability and long-term use. It features an all-around metal construction made from durable, corrosion-resistant materials. It also comes with a secure mounting bracket and commercial-grade metal valve with a trigger to efficiently and quickly put out fires.

In addition to these features, there is no risk of having a leakage problem because the product has a metal pull pin with a safety seal to prevent tampering and accidental discharge. To prevent misuse, the extinguisher has an easy-to-read, color-coded metal gauge and waterproof label with understandable instructions.

Perhaps the best feature of this fire extinguisher is that you don’t have to dispose of it after use. It’s reusable and rechargeable by a professional, saving you money and reducing environmental waste.

However, the product does have some drawbacks. For example, as great as having a rechargeable fire extinguisher sounds, it can be time-consuming to look for professional servicing each time it needs a recharge. Also, some people may struggle to use it because of its slightly heavier build.

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2. Kidde Kitchen Fire Extinguisher RESSP (For Grease)

As one of the most trusted names in fire safety, Kidde has earned a reputation for producing reliable and high-performing extinguishers. In keeping with tradition and standards, this particular product doesn’t disappoint.

About two-thirds of cooking fires start with grease, oil, or fat that catches fire. Having a fire extinguisher specifically designed to effectively and quickly put out cooking grease, fat, or oil fires is one way to proactively fireproof your house.

This Kidde Kitchen Fire Extinguisher is a Class K fire extinguisher specifically engineered with a flared nozzle to contain grease fire. The nozzle also minimizes the risk of splashing, which can sometimes spread the fire if not properly managed.

Another thing that immediately stands out about the Kidde RESSP Fire Extinguisher is its lightweight, compact design. Weighing just 2.5 pounds, it’s easy to handle, which can come in handy for households with kids or elderly people. It’s easy to store inside a kitchen cabinet or under your sink and even includes a wall mount for more convenient storage and accessibility.

Unlike multi-purpose extinguishers that require a bit of knowledge to use effectively, the Kidde RESSP Fire Extinguisher is straightforward, making it accessible for users of all ages. It also comes with a clear instruction label, which is helpful in high-stress situations.

It’s currently the only fire extinguisher UL-listed for residential cooking equipment, which provides added assurance that this extinguisher meets rigorous safety standards for home kitchens.

As amazing as it appears, however, this fire extinguisher does come with limitations. It’s designed for one-time use, which means after a single deployment, it needs to be replaced. This can be a downside for those looking for a more sustainable option.

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3. POPFRO Portable Fire Extinguisher

The POPFRO Portable Fire Extinguisher for households is a 4-in-1 extinguisher. It’s highly effective at handling cooking oil fires (Class K), electrically charged material fires (Class C), solid material fires (Class A), and combustible liquid (Class B) fires.

What sets the POPFRO apart is its eco-friendly design. This water-based extinguisher is free from toxic chemicals, making it safe for children, pets, and the environment. It’s a reliable option for those who want an effective yet health-conscious fire safety solution.

Every second counts in a fire emergency, and the POPFRO’s user-friendly design ensures quick action. It’s easy to use for all ages and doesn’t leave a messy residue after use, simplifying cleanup.

Additionally, the manufacturers ensure there’s no risk of accidental discharge by including a corrosion-resistant sealing ring and safety clip.

Another great feature of this extinguisher is its lightweight and compact size. It’s a 620ml capacity extinguisher that is also wall mountable, which means that you can store it anywhere that is convenient for you. The product has a strong spraying capability of up to 13 feet and beyond. However, it’s worth noting that this extinguisher cannot be reused and its small size cannot handle large fires.

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4. UPZLZD Home Fire Extinguishers

The UPZLZD Fire Extinguisher is one of the best kitchen fire extinguishers to tackle fire emergencies at home. It’s capable of handling A, B, C, and K-type fires, making it versatile for handling fires caused by kitchen oil, liquid fuels, solid materials, and electrical equipment.

You can also use the product to put out fires in vehicles, RVs, during camping trips, or even in a business setting. The UPZLZD also has a user-friendly feature. All you need to do is remove the safety pin and aim at the flame while pressing the red switch to dispel the content.

The product has a safety clip on the trigger that can be removed and reinstalled. This extinguisher can extinguish fires from 4 to 6 feet away due to its powerful jet spray mechanism. In cases of emergency, this feature guarantees safety and effectiveness in tackling fires.

The UPZLZD extinguisher has a water-based formula so you don’t have to worry about harmful chemicals or obnoxious odors. Its non-toxic and environmentally friendly nature also makes it safe for use around kids and pets. Plus, it’s easy to clean after use and leaves no residue behind.

People with limited space in their kitchens will enjoy its compact design that makes storage a breeze. It also comes with a mounting bracket that you can screw to the wall for easy reach in case of emergency. However, it’s not reusable and can only put out small fires.

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5. Kidde FA110 Multi-Purpose Fire Extinguisher

One major difference between this Kidde FA110 and the RESSP fire extinguisher we reviewed earlier is that while the latter is limited to only grease fires, the former is multi-purpose for different fire types.

The Kidde FA110 Multi-Purpose Fire Extinguisher is rated 1-A:10-B:C and is reliable in fighting common household fires. This includes class A fires (such as trash or wood), class B (flammable liquids and gasses), and class C fires (such as electrical equipment).

Another advantage is its user-friendliness. The clear, bilingual instruction label on the front makes it easy to understand and use, even in a hurry. It also comes with a UL-approved strap bracket that makes it easy to mount.

The Kidde FA110 is made from tough aluminum, ensuring that it’s both lightweight and long-lasting. Its all-metal construction makes it long-lasting and resistant to rust, corrosion, and other forms of damage. It also has a one-of-a-kind all-metal valve and handle feature to ensure durability.

The active extinguishing agent is monoammonium phosphate, a reliable compound that’s effective in putting out fires quickly. For ultimate safety, there is a safety pin feature that ensures there’s no accidental engagement. It also has an easy-to-read pressure gauge to check if the product is charged and ready to use.

One downside is that, like the RESSP, the FA110 is designed for one-time use. After discharging it, you’ll need to replace it. However, it does come with a 6-year warranty, offering peace of mind and ensuring that you’re covered in case of any defects.

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Types of Fire Extinguishers and Their Uses

There are several types of fire extinguishers, depending on the class of fire they’re designed to suppress. These include:

Class A Fire Extinguishers

These are meant to fight Class A fires, which typically involve ordinary combustibles like wood, plastics, paper, and cloth. These extinguishers typically work by using water, foam, or dry chemical agents to cool and smother the fire.

Class B Fire Extinguishers

Class B fires involve flammable liquids such as oil, gasoline, and other solvents. As a result, Class B fire extinguishers use agents like carbon dioxide, dry chemicals, or foam to cut off the fire’s oxygen supply or interrupt the chemical reaction.

Class C Fire Extinguishers

Class C extinguishers are intended for fires involving electrical equipment, such as kitchen appliances, wiring, outlets, and circuit breakers. These extinguishers use non-conductive agents, such as dry chemicals or carbon dioxide, to safely extinguish the fire without the risk of electrical shock.

Class K Fire Extinguishers

Class K extinguishers are useful for fires involving cooking oils and fats, which burn at much higher temperatures than other flammable liquids. That’s because they use a wet chemical agent formula that cools the fire and creates a soapy layer over the burning oil, thereby preventing re-ignition.

Multi-purpose Fire Extinguishers

These are versatile extinguishers that can be used for class A, B, and C types of fires. They typically use a dry agent like monoammonium phosphate to combat a wide range of fire types.

How to Choose the Right Kitchen Fire Extinguisher

Here are some important factors to consider when choosing the right fire extinguisher for your kitchen:

Size and Weight

Choose a fire extinguisher that is small enough to store in an accessible location in your kitchen. It should also be light enough for any member of your household to carry in emergencies.

Fire Rating

The fire rating is an essential feature to consider when purchasing an extinguisher for your home. You can buy fire extinguishers specifically designed for a type of fire, but keep in mind that kitchen fires may not be limited to only one source. If you’re unsure, multi-purpose extinguishers with more versatile ratings may be more useful for you.

Maintenance

Maintenance is one way to extend the longevity of your fire extinguisher. No matter how durable the extinguisher is, if you don’t take care of it, there’s a high chance it will fail you when you need it the most. An easy-to-maintain fire extinguisher will save you time and stress. Some extinguishers require you to recharge them while others require disposal after a single use.

User-friendliness

During fire emergencies, extinguishers with complicated operations, designs, or manuals will only confuse the user and waste valuable time. Buy a fire extinguisher with a simple design and an easy-to-understand user guide.

How to Maintain and Use a Fire Extinguisher Safely

Regular Inspections

Do a monthly routine check on your fire extinguisher to ensure it’s in good working condition. Inspect the pressure gauge to make sure the extinguisher is fully charged and ready for use whenever you may need it. You should also examine the nozzle and hose for any signs of damage or obstruction and check if the tamper seal is still intact (if your extinguisher comes with one).

Training

Train all your household members on how to use the fire extinguisher properly so they’re prepared for emergencies. Check if your local fire department offers classes or demonstrations on fire extinguisher use.

Storage

Store your fire extinguisher in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. The chosen location should be easily accessible in case of emergencies and everyone should be aware of it.

Professional Servicing

If you have a rechargeable fire extinguisher, make sure to recharge it after each use. You should also recharge regularly even if it hasn’t been used, ideally every six years. Rechargeable fire extinguishers should only be serviced by a certified professional, as they’ll not only refill the extinguishing agent, but also check for internal corrosion, and replace any worn-out parts.

Replacement

All fire extinguishers have a lifespan, typically ranging from five to 15 years. Check the manufacturer’s guidelines for the recommended replacement schedule and replace your extinguisher if it shows signs of wear or damage, or if it has been used.

FAQs

Are there fire extinguishers specifically for grease fires?

Yes, there are fire extinguishers specifically for grease fires. Due to the agents that they contain, these types of extinguishers can cool the fire and cut off the oxygen supply, which prevents reignition.

Can I reuse a fire extinguisher?

Yes, you can reuse a fire extinguisher if it’s rechargeable. For example, the First Alert HOME1 Standard Home Fire Extinguisher is reusable if you recharge after each use. However, most extinguishers are for single use.

What’s the ideal size of fire extinguisher to buy?

A 2.5 to 5-pound extinguisher is typically suitable for home kitchen use. It’s small, light, and easy to store. They have enough capacity to handle small/medium-sized fires. The POPFRO and Kidde RESSP fire extinguishers are great examples – they’re lightweight and can be handled by any member of the household.

Where in the kitchen should I store my fire extinguisher?

The best place to store your fire extinguisher is near the kitchen exit. This ensures that you can easily grab it if a fire breaks out, and if the fire becomes uncontrollable, you can quickly exit the kitchen.

Conclusion

Choosing the right kitchen fire extinguisher is important for ensuring your safety. In this article, we’ve reviewed some of the best extinguishers to have for fire emergencies at home.

There’s something for everyone, whether you need a versatile, multi-purpose extinguisher like the First Alert HOME1, a specialized option like the Kidde RESSP for grease fires, or a portable option like the POPFRO fire extinguisher.

However, remember that regular maintenance and proper usage are equally important to maximize the effectiveness of your extinguisher. With adequate training and a reliable kitchen fire extinguisher, you can protect your home from potential fire hazards and keep your family safe.

Looking for more helpful tips to improve your kitchen and cooking? Check out our collection of articles.