When it comes to fire safety, choosing the right type of fire extinguisher is only half the job—the size matters just as much. An extinguisher that’s too small may run out before the fire is under control, while one that’s too large may be too heavy to use quickly in an emergency.
Here’s a simple guide to help you choose the correct fire extinguisher size based on your premises—whether it’s your home, office, shop, or factory.
🏠 1. Fire Extinguisher Size for Homes
- Recommended size: 2kg – 4kg (ABC Dry Powder) or 2kg CO₂
- Why: Compact, lightweight, and easy for anyone in the family to operate. Covers kitchen, living room, and electrical risks.
- Where to install:
- Kitchen (Wet Chemical / 2kg ABC)
- Near main electrical board (2kg CO₂)
- Living/common areas (2–4kg ABC)
✔ Minimum: 1 extinguisher in the kitchen + 1 near the main electrical point
🏢 2. Fire Extinguisher Size for Offices
- Recommended size: 4kg – 6kg (ABC Dry Powder or CO₂)
- Why: Offices have computers, wiring, furniture, and papers. A mid-size extinguisher balances power with ease of use.
- Where to install:
- Near workstations & corridors (4–6kg ABC)
- Near server rooms/printers (2–4kg CO₂)
- Reception & exits for quick access
✔ Rule of thumb: 1 extinguisher per 600 sq. ft. of office space
🛍️ 3. Fire Extinguisher Size for Shops & Retail Stores
- Recommended size: 4kg – 6kg (ABC Dry Powder or CO₂)
- Why: Shops often deal with flammable materials, electrical appliances, and public footfall. You need a strong but manageable size.
- Where to install:
- Near the cash counter / entrance
- Close to electrical distribution boards
- In storage/back rooms
✔ Small shops (<500 sq. ft.): 4kg extinguisher
✔ Larger showrooms/retail stores: Mix of 4kg + 6kg units
🏭 4. Fire Extinguisher Size for Factories & Industrial Units
- Recommended size: 6kg – 9kg (ABC Dry Powder, CO₂, or Foam, depending on hazards)
- Why: Factories have heavy machinery, chemicals, oils, and high fire loads. Larger capacity ensures longer firefighting duration.
- Where to install:
- Near machines & production floors (6–9kg ABC)
- Near fuel/oil storage (9L Foam)
- Near electrical panels/heavy equipment (6kg CO₂)
- Entry/exit points for worker safety
✔ Rule of thumb: One extinguisher every 100 sq. meters of floor area
📏 Quick Size Guide
| Location | Ideal Extinguisher Size | Best Type | Placement Suggestion |
| Home | 2kg – 4kg | ABC, CO₂, Kitchen | Kitchen, living, electrical board |
| Office | 4kg – 6kg | ABC, CO₂ | Corridors, server rooms, exits |
| Shop | 4kg – 6kg | ABC, CO₂ | Entrance, counter, storage |
| Factory | 6kg – 9kg | ABC, CO₂, Foam | Near machinery, panels, exits |
🔧 Tips to Remember
- Always choose ISI-marked extinguishers (BIS certified in India).
- Smaller extinguishers (2–4kg) = quick use, short discharge time.
- Larger extinguishers (6–9kg) = longer duration, but heavier (may need trained staff).
- Place extinguishers at visible, accessible, wall-mounted spots at 3.5–5 feet height.
- Train family members, employees, and staff in basic extinguisher use.
👉 At Somya Pyrotek we provide ISI-certified extinguishers in all sizes, along with installation, refilling, and AMC support.