2.5-gallon Amerex 240 - Water Pressure Fire Extinguisher - OEM

The Amerex Model 240 is a professional-grade, 2.5-gallon stored-pressure water fire extinguisher engineered for the most common fire threats in commercial and institutional environments: Class A hazards. While dry chemical units are versatile, the Amerex 240 utilizes the cooling and soaking power of pressurized water to penetrate deep into porous materials like wood, paper, and textiles. When effective yet residue-free Class A suppression is the requirement, the Model 240 is the preferred choice for facility managers across a wide range of occupancy types.

By removing the heat element of the fire triangle and saturating the fuel source, the Model 240 ensures that a fire is not just knocked down, but permanently extinguished without the risk of re-ignition. Manufactured by Amerex Corporation, the Model 240 features a polished stainless steel cylinder designed for decades of reliable service.

The Physics of Suppression: Endothermic Cooling

1. Endothermic Heat Absorption

Water has one of the highest latent heats of vaporization of any common substance. As the 2.5-gallon stream contacts a fire, it absorbs massive amounts of thermal energy to convert into steam. This endothermic reaction rapidly brings the fuel temperature below its auto-ignition point, stopping the fire at the source.

2. Hydrostatic Penetration

Unlike powder agents that sit on the surface, the pressurized water stream uses kinetic energy to penetrate the char layer of wood or the outer folds of fabric. This ensures that deep-seated embers are soaked and cooled. By saturating the fuel, the Model 240 also raises the moisture content of nearby unburned materials, reducing their ignition risk.

The Operator Advantage: 55 Seconds of Controlled Safety

• Extended Discharge Duration: Most dry chemical extinguishers discharge in 10 to 20 seconds. The Amerex 240 provides a 55-second discharge window, allowing the operator time to adjust aim and ensure complete coverage of the burning material.
• Safe Stand-Off Zone: With a stream reaching 45 to 55 feet, the operator can maintain safe distance from radiant heat and smoke while still engaging the base of the fire.
• Zero Chemical Residue: The Model 240 leaves only water behind, which can be easily cleaned up — a significant advantage in hospitals and clean manufacturing environments where dry chemical cleanup costs can be substantial.

The Amerex 240 is the primary specified choice for low-contamination and high-visibility Class A zones:

• Educational Institutions: The standard for K-12 and university hallways. The non-toxic, residue-free discharge is the safest choice for student-occupied areas.
• Libraries and Record Storage: Ideal for protecting paper assets where a dry chemical cloud would damage unburned documents.
• Healthcare and Patient Care: Eliminates the respiratory distress risks associated with discharging powder-based agents in patient wards.
• Unheated Storage: When charged with Model 506 Antifreeze, the unit remains operational down to -40°F, making it suitable for seasonal loading docks and unheated warehouses.

To maintain NFPA 10 compliance, the Model 240 requires a specific maintenance cycle:

• Monthly Inspection: Verify the pressure gauge is in the green zone and the hose is free of obstructions. Confirm inspection tags are current.
• Annual Maintenance: A certified technician must verify the water level and ensure the internal siphon tube is functioning correctly.
• Recharge After Use: The 240 is a refillable unit. After any discharge, a certified technician can recharge it in the field using standard tap water and a compressed air source.
• 5-Year Hydrostatic Test: NFPA 10 requires a pressure test every five years to ensure the stainless steel cylinder has not suffered internal pitting or structural weakening.

Where can I get service for water extinguisher units?

Always use a certified fire protection provider for recharges. While the agent is tap water, the pressurization process requires specialized equipment to ensure the valve seats correctly and the unit holds pressure.

Can I use this on a grease fire?

No. Water on a Class K grease fire causes a violent steam explosion that dramatically worsens the fire. For commercial kitchens and cooking areas, always use a Class K wet chemical extinguisher.

Does the stainless steel cylinder require special maintenance?

The stainless steel body is naturally corrosion-resistant and does not require painting or coating maintenance. However, the 5-year hydrostatic test is still mandatory per NFPA 10 to verify the cylinder has not suffered internal pitting from water mineral deposits over time.