In today’s digital-first world, server rooms and data centers are the backbone of business operations. A single spark in such environments can lead to data loss, equipment damage, business downtime, and massive financial losses. That’s why protecting your critical infrastructure with the right fire extinguisher is not just smart—it’s absolutely essential.
In this blog, we’ll guide you through how to select the best fire extinguisher for server rooms and data centers, based on risk type, safety standards, and environmental impact.
🔥 Why Fire Safety in Server Rooms is Unique
Unlike general office spaces, server rooms house high-value electronics, cables, and UPS systems—all of which can cause electrical fires. Traditional fire extinguishers (like water or foam) may put out the fire, but can destroy the equipment in the process. That’s why clean, non-damaging fire suppression is the top priority.
⚡ Common Causes of Fire in Server Rooms
- Short circuits or overheating in power strips, servers, or UPS
- Faulty wiring or overloaded circuits
- Poor ventilation or blocked airflow
- Dust accumulation on hot components
- External factors like HVAC failures or human error
These factors demand fast-acting, non-conductive, and residue-free fire extinguishing solutions.
✅ Best Fire Extinguishers for Server Rooms & Data Centers
1. CO₂ (Carbon Dioxide) Fire Extinguisher
- Class C Fire Rated: Ideal for electrical fires
- Non-conductive: Safe on live electrical equipment
- Leaves no residue: Won’t damage servers, drives, or components
- Environmentally safe: Doesn’t harm electronics or require cleanup
🟢 Recommended for small to medium server rooms
2. Clean Agent Fire Extinguisher (FE-36, HFC-227ea, NOVEC 1230)
- Uses gas-based agents that suppress fire by interrupting the chemical reaction
- Ideal for data centers, control rooms, labs
- No moisture, no residue, no conductivity
- Safe for people and equipment
- Often used in conjunction with automatic suppression systems
🟢 Recommended for large-scale data centers or mission-critical environments
3. Water Mist Fire Extinguisher (Dielectric Nozzle)
- Ultra-fine mist cools the fire and displaces oxygen
- Safe for use on electronics and energized equipment
- Eco-friendly and safe for human exposure
- Prevents re-ignition while being non-damaging
🟢 Good alternative for environments with mixed fire risks
🚫 Fire Extinguishers to Avoid in Server Rooms
| Type | Reason to Avoid |
| Water | Conductive; can cause short circuits |
| Foam (AFFF) | Leaves residue; can damage electronics |
| ABC Dry Powder | Abrasive and highly corrosive to equipment |
📏 How Many Extinguishers Do You Need?
As per Indian BIS and NBC guidelines:
- Install one CO₂ (4.5 kg or 6.5 kg) extinguisher for every 100 square meters of server room area
- Ensure travel distance to the nearest extinguisher is ≤15 meters
- For larger rooms, consider installing a Clean Agent Fire Suppression System with automatic activation
🔧 Installation & Maintenance Tips
- Mount extinguishers at visible, accessible points near exits or server racks
- Conduct quarterly inspections and annual servicing
- Clearly label extinguishers and train key staff
- Use an automatic Tubing Suppression System (e.g., FM-200, NOVEC 1230) for unmanned or high-value server environments
📋 Fire Safety Compliance for Data Centers in India
Your server room fire safety should align with:
- NBC India (National Building Code)
- IS 2190:2010 and IS 15683
- FM Global or NFPA 75 standards (for larger facilities)
🔐 Secure Your Data. Protect Your Infrastructure.
At Somya Pyrotek , we offer a complete range of ISI-certified CO₂, Supplier of Clean Agent Fire Extinguisher, and Water Mist extinguishers specifically designed for IT and telecom environments.
We also provide:
✔ Site inspection & risk assessment
✔ Fire extinguisher installation & refilling
✔ Automatic suppression system design
✔ Annual maintenance contracts (AMC)
🌐 Visit: [Fireextinguishers.co.in]