Kidde 3A40BC Multipurpose Fire Extinguisher High Capacity — 5.5 lb, UL Listed (21032633)

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Kidde 3A40BC Multipurpose Fire Extinguisher High Capacity Overview

What It Is Built For

Match the extinguisher to the fire class: A (ordinary combustibles), B (flammable liquids), C (energized electrical), K (cooking oils and fats). This ABC dry chemical unit covers A, B, and C, but it is not a Class K appliance for deep-fryer fires. Mount it somewhere accessible, check the pressure gauge on a regular schedule, and follow the manufacturer's inspection and service guidance for your specific unit. An extinguisher is for small, incipient fires only — if the fire grows or the room fills with smoke, an IDLH atmosphere, evacuate and call 911 rather than continuing to fight it. See our fire extinguisher inspection guide, the OSHA 1910.157 fire extinguisher guide, and our best fire extinguisher for home guide.

Pros & Cons

How It Compares

Specifications

Related Guides

fire extinguisher classes explained, fire extinguisher inspection guide, fire extinguisher placement requirements, how to use a fire extinguisher, best fire extinguishers 2026.

Related Resources

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does the 3-A:40-B:C rating mean?

3-A is the Class A (ordinary combustibles like wood, paper, cloth) extinguishing capacity rating; 40-B:C means it is rated for Class B flammable-liquid fires up to roughly a 40 square-foot test fire and is safe on Class C energized electrical equipment. Together it's a general-purpose, higher-capacity ABC rating than a basic 1-A:10-B:C home unit.

Is this extinguisher rechargeable or single-use?

That is not confirmed for this exact model by the manufacturer's own listing. Kidde sells both rechargeable and one-time-use extinguishers under similar 3A40BC ratings, so check the label, pressure gauge, and any included documentation on your specific unit, or contact Kidde directly, before assuming either way.

How much dry chemical agent does it hold?

5.5 lb of monoammonium phosphate dry chemical agent, per the manufacturer's listing for this model.

What is the discharge time and range?

Approximately 13-15 seconds of discharge at a range of roughly 12-18 feet, at an operating pressure of about 195 PSI, based on manufacturer-published specifications for this extinguisher family.

Is it UL Listed?

Yes, this extinguisher is UL Listed, which is a genuine third-party certification. Note that this is separate from any OSHA claim: OSHA does not certify or approve specific commercial fire extinguisher models.

Can I use it on a kitchen grease or deep-fryer fire?

It covers Class B flammable liquids generally, but it is not a Class K appliance for commercial deep-fryer cooking-oil fires. For fryers, a wet-chemical K-class unit is the correct primary device; an ABC extinguisher like this one is a backup, not the front-line tool, in that specific scenario.

What is the cylinder made of?

Corrosion-resistant aluminum, per the manufacturer's published construction details, with a pressure gauge and a multi-directional discharge hose.

How do I use this extinguisher in an emergency?

Use the standard PASS method: Pull the safety pin, Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire, Squeeze the handle, and Sweep side to side. An extinguisher is for small, incipient fires only; if the fire grows or smoke fills the room, evacuate and call 911 rather than continuing to fight it.

How often should I inspect it?

NFPA 10 calls for a monthly visual gauge check, an annual professional inspection, and periodic hydrostatic testing for portable extinguishers. Follow the specific service and recharge guidance on your unit's label.

Does it come with a mounting bracket?

Mounting hardware details are not confirmed in the manufacturer's published specifications reviewed for this listing; check the current Amazon listing or packaging for what's included with your order.

How does this compare to Kidde's Basic 5-B:C single-use unit?

The Kidde Basic 5-B:C unit is a smaller single-use extinguisher with no Class A capacity, so it won't handle wood, paper, or cloth fires. This 3A40BC High Capacity model adds Class A coverage and a larger 5.5 lb agent charge for broader, higher-capacity protection.

Is one of these enough for my garage or workshop?

Coverage depends on square footage, hazard type, and NFPA 10 travel-distance guidance; a 3A40BC high-capacity unit suits a garage, workshop, or larger single space, but bigger or multi-room properties may need more than one, placed so an extinguisher is always within reach.