CommanderEDGE | 6 Litre Water Pre-filled Low Freeze Additive Fire Extinguisher

FAQs

Why do I need a low freeze additive fire extinguisher?

Standard water and foam fire extinguishers are at risk of freezing when exposed to temperatures below 5°C, which can damage the internal lining, rupture the cylinder and render the extinguisher completely useless. If a fire extinguisher is installed outdoors or in unheated areas such as car parks, garages, sheds, warehouses or cold storage facilities, a low freeze additive extinguisher is essential to ensure reliable operation throughout winter months when temperatures drop below freezing.

What temperature can this extinguisher withstand?

The Commander 6 litre water fire extinguisher with low freeze additive can operate reliably in temperatures ranging from -10°C to +60°C. The low freeze additive prevents the extinguishing medium from freezing, maintaining it in a fluid state even in sub-zero conditions, ensuring the extinguisher remains functional when needed most during cold weather emergencies.

What types of fires is this extinguisher suitable for?

This extinguisher is rated 13A and designed specifically for Class A fires involving solid combustible materials such as wood, paper, textiles and other carbonaceous substances. It should not be used on Class B fires involving flammable liquids, Class C fires involving flammable gases, Class D fires involving combustible metals, Class F fires involving cooking oils and fats, or on electrical equipment fires.

How does the low freeze additive work?

The low freeze additive is mixed with demineralised water to lower the freezing point of the extinguishing medium from 0°C down to -10°C. This additive maintains the water in a liquid state even in freezing conditions, allowing the extinguisher to discharge normally and suppress fires by cooling burning materials and displacing oxygen. The additive does not affect the fire-fighting performance or environmental credentials of the water extinguisher.

Where are low freeze additive extinguishers most commonly used?

Low freeze additive extinguishers are essential for any outdoor location or unheated space exposed to freezing temperatures. Common applications include petrol stations, holiday parks and caravan sites, cold storage facilities and warehouses, outdoor car parks and storage areas, construction sites, agricultural buildings, unheated garages and outbuildings, and any premises where fire extinguishers must remain operational in winter conditions.

Are low freeze additive extinguishers environmentally friendly?

Yes, low freeze additive water extinguishers remain environmentally friendly as they contain only demineralised water and a small amount of anti-freeze additive. They leave no harmful chemical residue, are safe to use around people and property, and can be disposed of responsibly at end of life. The additive used is specifically formulated to be effective at preventing freezing whilst maintaining the environmental benefits of water-based fire suppression.

Can this extinguisher be used indoors as well as outdoors?

Yes, low freeze additive extinguishers can be used in both indoor and outdoor locations. Whilst they are specifically designed for outdoor and unheated areas where standard water extinguishers would freeze, they function perfectly well in heated indoor environments too. The extended temperature range of -10°C to +60°C makes them versatile for any location, though standard water extinguishers are more economical for indoor-only applications.

Do low freeze additive extinguishers require special servicing?

Low freeze additive extinguishers require the same annual servicing as standard fire extinguishers, conducted by a qualified technician in accordance with BS 5306 standards. The service includes checking the pressure gauge, inspecting the cylinder for damage or corrosion, examining seals and components, and verifying the unit is fully charged. Extended servicing every five years involves internal inspection of the cylinder and valve mechanism to ensure continued reliability.