Frequently asked questions

Residential Kitchen Fire Suppression Systems

What is a residential kitchen fire suppression system?

A residential kitchen fire suppression system is an automatic device installed above your stove that detects cooking fires and discharges a suppression agent before the fire can spread. It activates without any action from you — triggered by heat — and works on both gas and electric ranges. The Guardian G300-B, G500-B, and G600-B are the leading residential systems available for homeowners to purchase and install themselves.

How does a kitchen fire suppression system work?

A heat-sensing link above the stovetop melts when cooking temperatures reach a dangerous level. That triggers the system to discharge a suppressant agent through nozzles aimed directly at the cooking surface. Most systems also automatically shut off the gas or electric power to the range at the same time, cutting off the fuel source. The entire process happens in seconds — without smoke detectors, without sprinklers, and without any action from the homeowner.

What is the difference between the Guardian G300-B, G500-B, and G600-B?

The G300-B is designed for compact kitchens with a single gas or electric stovetop — the most affordable option, most popular for apartments and small homes. The G500-B provides dual-nozzle coverage for standard family kitchens. The G600-B is the heavy-duty option for large kitchens with gas or electric ranges, griddles, and woks — ideal for open-plan cooking spaces, church kitchens, and break rooms. All three ship directly to your door for end-user installation.

Can I install a Guardian fire suppression system myself?

Yes. The Guardian G300-B, G500-B, and G600-B are specifically designed for end-user installation — no special tools or professional training required. Each system comes with detailed installation instructions. Fire Fighter Products, Inc. is a national distributor and can ship directly to you anywhere in the United States.

How much does a residential kitchen fire suppression system cost?

Guardian system pricing from Fire Fighter Products, Inc.: G300-B electric stove $1,903.95 | G300-B gas stove $2,804.95 | G500-B electric $2,718.95 | G500-B gas $3,220.95 | G600-B electric $2,945.95 | G600-B gas $3,404.95. Pricing includes the complete system. Call 1-800-359-3473 or visit firefighterproducts.com to order.

What happens when a kitchen fire suppression system activates?

A suppressant agent discharges through the nozzles directly onto the cooking surface. Simultaneously, the gas or electric shutoff triggers, cutting power to the stove. The fire is contained at the source before it can spread to cabinets, walls, or the rest of the kitchen. After activation, the system must be recharged or replaced before it is operational again — contact us for service.

Do residential fire suppression systems require a permit?

Requirements vary by local jurisdiction. In most areas, residential kitchen fire suppression systems do not require a permit for end-user installation — but we always recommend checking with your local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) before installing. Our team can help answer questions specific to Eastern North Carolina and Southern Virginia.

Commercial Fire Suppression and Services

How often should fire extinguishers be inspected?

NFPA 10 requires portable fire extinguishers to be inspected monthly (a quick visual check) and serviced annually by a certified technician. Every six years, extinguishers must be emptied and internally inspected. Hydrostatic testing is required every 12 years depending on the extinguisher type. Fire Fighter Products, Inc. provides all of these services throughout Eastern NC and Southern VA using barcode tracking for 100% inspection accuracy.

What is a clean agent fire suppression system?

A clean agent fire suppression system uses a gaseous suppressant — such as FM-200 or CO2 — to extinguish fires without water, foam, or powder. Because it leaves zero residue, it is ideal for server rooms, data centers, medical equipment areas, and any space where water or chemical damage would be catastrophic. Fire Fighter Products, Inc. sells, installs, inspects, and recharges all major clean agent systems throughout Eastern NC and Southern VA.

What is the difference between FM-200 and Halon?

Halon was phased out under the Montreal Protocol because of its ozone-depleting properties. FM-200 (HFC-227ea) is the most widely used Halon replacement — it is effective, leaves no residue, is safe for occupied spaces, and does not damage the ozone layer. We service both legacy Halon systems and modern FM-200 systems.

How often should a commercial kitchen fire suppression system be inspected?

UL 300-listed wet chemical kitchen fire suppression systems must be inspected semi-annually (every six months) per NFPA 96. Fire Fighter Products, Inc. provides certified semi-annual inspections for commercial kitchen systems throughout Eastern NC and Southern VA, including restaurants, schools, hospitals, and cafeterias.

What does NFPA compliance mean for fire extinguisher inspections?

NFPA stands for the National Fire Protection Association. NFPA 10 is the standard that governs portable fire extinguisher installation, inspection, maintenance, and testing. When our inspections are NFPA-compliant, it means our certified technicians follow the exact standards that insurance companies, local fire marshals, and OSHA require. Businesses that fail NFPA 10 compliance can face fines, failed inspections, and liability exposure. We make sure you stay compliant.

About Fire Fighter Products, Inc.

How long has Fire Fighter Products, Inc. been in business?

Fire Fighter Products, Inc. was founded in 1945 by James M. Newcomb, making us one of the oldest privately owned fire protection companies in North Carolina. We have been serving Eastern NC and Southern VA for over 80 years. Many of our client relationships span more than 50 years.

What areas does Fire Fighter Products, Inc. serve?

Our on-site fire safety inspection and mobile service teams serve 24 counties across Eastern North Carolina and Southern Virginia. We also ship fire safety products nationwide. See our full Service Area page for a complete county list, or call 1-800-359-3473 to confirm coverage in your specific area.

Is Fire Fighter Products, Inc. a certified fire protection company?

Yes. All of our field technicians are factory-trained and certified. Our inspections and services meet NFPA, OSHA, and local AHJ (Authority Having Jurisdiction) standards. We are factory-authorized distributors for Amerex, Ansul, Pyro-Chem, Badger, and Guardian Safety Solutions.

Do you ship fire suppression systems nationwide?

Yes. Guardian residential fire suppression systems (G300-B, G500-B, G600-B) are available for nationwide shipping directly to homeowners, property managers, and commercial buyers. Our on-site installation and inspection services are limited to Eastern NC and Southern VA. Call 1-800-359-3473 or visit firefighterproducts.com to place an order.