What is the capacity of a portable CO2 fire extinguisher?

A portable CO2 fire extinguisher is typically available in various sizes, with common capacities being 5 lbs, 10 lbs, and 15 lbs. The 15 lb capacity is a common choice for many applications, making it ideal for extinguishing fires involving flammable liquids and electrical equipment. This size allows the extinguisher to displace enough CO2 to effectively smother flames while still being manageable for one person to operate. The weight of the extinguisher indicates how long the user can discharge CO2, with larger capacities offering longer discharge times and greater effectiveness in fire suppression.

The 5 lb extinguisher, while useful in certain small fires, may not provide sufficient coverage for larger incidents. The 10 lb option offers a middle ground in terms of capacity but may also fall short for larger fires, leading to less effective results. The 20 lb extinguisher, while available, is typically used for more extensive fires and may not be practical for personal or small business use due to its bulkiness.