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 unrivaled cooling and soaking power of pressurized water to penetrate deep into porous materials like wood, paper, and textiles. When searching for firefighter safety equipment that is effective yet safe for sensitive environments, the Model 240 is the preferred choice for facility managers across the country.
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 the Amerex Corporation, a global leader in life-safety hardware, the Model 240 features a high-gloss, corrosion-resistant 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 hits a 1,000°F 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 and Surface Tension
Unlike powder agents that sit on the surface, the pressurized stream of the Model 240 (reaching up to 55 feet) 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 renders nearby unburned materials "fire-resistant" by raising their moisture content, effectively creating a firebreak within the combustible material itself.
The "Operator Advantage": 55 Seconds of Controlled Safety
- Inexperienced User Confidence: Most dry chemical extinguishers discharge fully in 10 to 20 seconds. The Amerex 240 provides a massive 55-second discharge window. This allows a teacher or office worker time to adjust their aim and move around the hazard.
- Safe Stand-Off Zone: With a stream reaching 45 to 55 feet, the operator can stand far away from the intense radiant heat and smoke. This distance is a vital part of fire safety training, allowing for a safer approach to the base of the fire.
- Zero Chemical Residue: In facilities like hospitals or clean-manufacturing plants, the "cleanup cost" of a powder discharge can exceed the cost of the fire itself. As a refillable water fire extinguisher, the Model 240 leaves only water behind, which can be easily mopped up.
The Amerex 240 is the primary specified choice for "Low-Corrosion" and "High-Visibility" zones:
- Educational Institutions: The standard for K-12 and university hallways. The non-toxic nature makes it the safest choice for student-occupied areas.
- Libraries & Record Storage: Ideal for protecting paper assets where a dry chemical "cloud" would ruin unburned documents.
- Healthcare & 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 perfect for seasonal loading docks.
| Manufacturer | Amerex Corporation |
| Model | 240 |
| Agent Type | Pressurized Water (Tap Water + Optional Additives) |
| Capacity | 2.5 Gallons (9.46 Liters) |
| UL Rating | 2-A |
| Discharge Time | ~55 Seconds |
| Discharge Range | 45–55 Feet |
| Cylinder | Polished Stainless Steel |
To maintain NFPA 10 compliance, the Model 240 requires a specific maintenance cycle. Unlike some disposable units, this is a fully serviceable piece of fire safety equipment:
- Monthly Inspection: Verify the pressure gauge is in the green and the hose is free of obstructions.
- Annual Maintenance: A certified technician must verify the water level and ensure the internal siphon tube is functioning correctly. During this time, they will often update the fire extinguisher tag to verify compliance.
- Fire Extinguisher Recharge: The 240 is designed to be a refillable water fire extinguisher. After use, a professional can recharge the unit 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 fire extinguisher service for water units?
You should always visit a certified fire department supply store or professional fire safety provider for recharges. While it uses tap water, the pressurization process requires specialized equipment to ensure the valve seats correctly.
Can I use this on a grease fire?
No. Water on a Class K grease fire will cause a violent steam explosion. For kitchens, you must use a specialized wet chemical unit.
Does it work as well as other brands?
The Amerex 240 is the gold standard for stainless steel water units due to its heavy-duty construction and long-term reliability.