Why are dry chemical fire extinguishers a poor practice for data center fire protection?

Question

Options

• AThey set off smoke alarms.
• BThey are corrosive to IT equipment.
• CThey cause condensation on equipment.
• DThey are ineffective against electrical fires.

• A
  3% (2)
• B
  72% (42)
• C
  7% (4)
• D
  17% (10)

Explanation

Dry chemical extinguishers deposit a fine, corrosive powder residue that clings to circuit boards, connectors, and other sensitive components, causing irreversible damage to IT equipment - often more costly than the fire itself. This is why data centers prefer clean agent systems (like FM-200 or Novec 1230), which suppress fire and evaporate without leaving residue.

Why the distractors are wrong:

• A - While chemicals can trigger detectors, this is a minor operational concern, not the primary reason they're prohibited.
• C - Condensation is a concern with water-based suppression (like CO₂ at certain concentrations), not dry chemical agents.
• D - Dry chemical extinguishers are rated for Class C (electrical) fires, so they're not ineffective - the damage from residue is the actual problem.

Memory tip: Think "dry = dirty." Dry chemical = dirty residue that destroys equipment. Data centers need clean agents that leave nothing behind.

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