CO2 Fire Extinguisher vs Water Fire Extinguisher: What’s the Difference?
Fire extinguishers are a crucial safety equipment that should always be present at any home or workplace. But with various types of fire extinguishers available in the market, it might be challenging to find the right one for the situation. Two popular types of fire extinguishers are CO2 and water extinguishers, but what’s the difference between them?
CO2 Fire Extinguishers
CO2 fire extinguishers use carbon dioxide gas to suffocate the flames by removing the oxygen. They are ideal for Class B and Class C fires that involve flammable liquids and electrical equipment. CO2 extinguishers don’t leave any residue, and they are perfect for places with electronics, as they don’t cause any damage. However, CO2 fire extinguishers can be dangerous for humans in confined spaces since they displace oxygen.
Water Fire Extinguishers
Water fire extinguishers work by cooling the flames below their ignition temperature. They are the most common type of extinguisher and are ideal for putting out Class A fires that involve flammable solids such as wood, paper, or plastic. Water extinguishers are cheap and generally harmless to humans if used correctly. But, they are not ideal for fires involving electrical equipment, as water conducts electricity, and can lead to electrocution.
The Main Differences between CO2 and Water Fire Extinguishers
The primary difference between CO2 and water fire extinguishers is the type of fire they can extinguish. CO2 is suitable for putting out Class B and C fires that involve flammable liquids and electrical equipment, while water is perfect for Class A fires that involve flammable solids.
The other significant difference between these two types of fire extinguishers is their safety concerns. CO2 is hazardous in confined spaces since it displaces oxygen, while water can be dangerous for electrical fires and its conductivity. Therefore, it is crucial to consider the type of fire and environment where the fire extinguisher will be used to choose the correct one.
In summary, CO2 and water fire extinguishers are both crucial safety equipment that should be present in any home or workplace. The choice between the two will depend on the type of fire and the environment where the extinguisher will be used. It is also vital to follow safety precautions when handling any fire extinguisher.
