Fire Extinguishers

Shop fire extinguishers online at Fire Extinguisher Shop — Australia’s specialist supplier of portable fire extinguishers for homes, businesses, vehicles, and industrial sites. All models comply with AS/NZS 1841 and are available for fast delivery nationwide. Prices start from $26.90.

Types of fire extinguisher

Different fires require different extinguishing agents. Choosing the wrong type can be ineffective — or dangerous. Use the guide below to find the right category for your application.

Not sure which type you need? For most homes and workplaces, a dry chemical ABE extinguisher is the right choice — it covers Class A, B, and E fires and is the most common extinguisher type in Australian buildings.

Choosing the right size

Size determines how long the extinguisher discharges and how much area it can cover. Australian Standard AS 1851 sets minimum requirements for commercial premises — consult a licensed fire protection technician for a formal risk assessment.

The 4.5kg dry chemical ABE is our best-selling size — suitable for most homes, small offices, and commercial tenancies. For larger premises or higher-risk environments, the 9kg ABE is the appropriate choice. For smaller spaces, the 2.5kg ABE fire extinguisher is a popular home and 4WD size, while the 9 litre water fire extinguisher suits premises with only Class A (paper, wood, fabric) fire risk.

Fire classes explained

Australian fire classification (AS/NZS 1841) divides fires into six classes based on the fuel source:

• Class A — solid combustibles: wood, paper, fabric, plastic
• Class B — flammable liquids: petrol, oil, paint, solvents
• Class C — flammable gases: LPG, natural gas, methane (specialist dry powder required)
• Class D — flammable metals: lithium, magnesium (specialist extinguisher required)
• Class E — energised electrical equipment: switchboards, computers, appliances
• Class F — cooking oils and fats: deep fryers, commercial kitchens (wet chemical required)

ABE dry chemical extinguishers cover Classes A, B, and E — the three most common fire types in residential and commercial settings. CO2 covers B and E. Neither ABE nor CO2 is suitable for Class F kitchen fires; for those, you need a wet chemical extinguisher.

Compliance and servicing requirements

All portable fire extinguishers sold by Fire Extinguisher Shop comply with AS/NZS 1841 — the Australian and New Zealand standard for portable fire extinguishers. Ongoing maintenance is governed by AS 1851:

• 6-monthly inspection by a licensed fire protection technician
• Pressure test and refill every 5 years (dry chemical) or as labelled
• Service records must be maintained on the label or log book attached to the unit

Fire extinguishers must be installed and serviced by a licensed technician to meet state and territory workplace safety legislation (WHS Act) and the National Construction Code.

Frequently asked questions

What fire extinguisher do I need for my home?

A 2.5kg or 4.5kg dry chemical ABE extinguisher is the standard recommendation for Australian homes. It covers Class A (wood, fabric), Class B (flammable liquids), and Class E (electrical) fires — the three most likely fire types in a residential setting. Mount it outside the kitchen door, not inside, so it remains accessible if the kitchen is already on fire.

Do fire extinguishers expire?

Fire extinguishers do not have a fixed expiry date, but they must be maintained under AS 1851. A 6-monthly inspection is required, along with a hydrostatic pressure test every 5 years for dry chemical and every 5 years for CO2 (with weight check at each service). An extinguisher that has been discharged, even partially, must be serviced before it is relied upon again.

How many fire extinguishers do I need at work?

AS 1851 and the National Construction Code specify minimum coverage based on floor area and occupancy class. As a general guide, one 4.5kg ABE extinguisher covers approximately 200–250m² in a standard office environment — but commercial premises must have a licensed fire protection technician carry out a formal assessment to meet their legal obligations.

What is the difference between ABE and BE fire extinguishers?

ABE dry chemical extinguishers cover Class A (solids), Class B (liquids), and Class E (electrical). BE extinguishers cover only Class B and E — they do not have the Class A rating. For most applications, ABE is the correct choice. BE powder extinguishers are less common and are typically used in specific environments where Class A coverage is not required, such as certain electrical switchrooms.

Are fire extinguishers required by law in Australia?

Yes. The National Construction Code (NCC) and state WHS legislation require portable fire extinguishers in most commercial premises. The specific requirements (number, type, size, placement) depend on your building class and occupancy. Residential homes are not legally required to have an extinguisher, but they are strongly recommended. Strata and body corporate buildings typically have legal obligations — check with your building manager.

Fire Extinguishers by City

We deliver fire extinguishers Australia-wide with fast tracked courier shipping. Browse city-specific delivery information and local compliance guides:

• Fire Extinguishers Sydney — Same-week delivery to all Sydney suburbs
• Fire Extinguishers Melbourne — Delivered to all Melbourne suburbs and regional Victoria
• Fire Extinguishers Brisbane — Brisbane and South East Queensland delivery
• Fire Extinguishers Perth — Perth metro and regional WA delivery
• Fire Extinguishers Adelaide — Adelaide and regional SA delivery