Guide to Selecting Fire Hose Reels for Various Environments

Choosing the Right Fire Hose Reel for Different Environments and Fire Hazards: A Complete 2025 Guide

Fire safety is non-negotiable—whether you’re protecting a commercial building, an industrial facility, or even a residential property. One of the most reliable, accessible, and widely used tools for fire suppression is the fire hose reel. But here’s the catch: not all fire hose reels are created equal, and choosing the wrong type can seriously compromise your safety strategy.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about selecting the right fire hose reel for specific environments and fire hazards. From fire classifications and reel types to specialised reels like 50m, 36m, stainless steel, swing arm, blue foam, and more—this guide has it all.

1. Why Fire Hose Reels Matter

Fire hose reels form the backbone of many firefighting systems. They serve as an immediate and reliable water source for tackling fires in their early stages, reducing damage and increasing safety. Found everywhere—from shopping centres and schools to factories and homes—fire hose reels help by delivering a controlled, continuous flow of water during an emergency.

Choosing the right fire hose reel means the difference between effective fire suppression and a potentially catastrophic outcome. Every environment has its unique fire risks, and selecting the correct reel ensures you're prepared for any situation.

2. Understanding Fire Hazards (Fire Classifications)

To choose the right fire hose reel, you first need to understand fire hazards. Fires are classified into different categories based on fuel type:

Class A Fires

Involve ordinary combustibles such as paper, wood, cloth, rubber, and plastics.

Class B Fires

Fuelled by flammable liquids—petrol, diesel, oils, solvents, alcohol.

Class E Fires

(Electrical fires) caused by energised electrical equipment, power boards, wiring faults, and appliances.

Class D Fires

Metal-based fires involving magnesium, titanium, or aluminium shavings.

Class F Fires

Kitchen-related fires involving cooking oils and fats are frequently observed in restaurants and commercial kitchens.

Important: Standard fire hose reels are primarily designed for Class A fires. Using water on Class B, E, or F fires can be dangerous.

Understanding the fire class present in your environment is the foundation for picking the correct equipment.

3. Types of Fire Hose Reels

Fire hose reels come in several configurations, each engineered to suit specific firefighting needs.

3.1 Manual Fire Hose Reels

These reels require users to turn a handle to activate water flow. They're reliable and commonly used in small to medium buildings.

3.2 Automatic Fire Hose Reels

Always ready for action. Pulling the hose automatically triggers water flow—ideal for fast-response environments.

3.3 Semi-Automatic Fire Hose Reels

The hybrid option. Water begins flowing once the nozzle is opened, giving added control and reduced water wastage.

Each type offers distinct advantages depending on your building’s layout, hazard level, and user capabilities.

4. 36m Fire Hose Reel

A 36m fire hose reel is a popular and versatile option suitable for medium-sized buildings.

Key Benefits:

• Extended reach for larger rooms, wide corridors, or small warehouses

• Consistent water pressure for effective fire control

• Ideal for schools, office buildings, and multi-room facilities

This hose length strikes the perfect balance between manoeuvrability and coverage.

5. 50m Fire Hose Reel

A 50m hose reel is built for large, challenging, or open environments where distance matters.

Why Choose a 50m Reel?

• Provides maximum coverage, ideal for expansive spaces

• Reduces deployment time—reach distant fire sources quickly

• Ideal for industrial plants, warehouses, and large commercial complexes

Investing in a 50m reel ensures a robust and rapid firefighting response.

6. Swing Arm Fire Hose Reel

A swing arm reel is uniquely designed with a pivoting bracket, allowing it to swing left or right for easier deployment.

Benefits of Swing Arm Reels:

• Perfect for tight or confined spaces

• Prevents hose tangling

• Enhances accessibility and quick operation

• Suitable for loading docks, vehicle bays, corridors, and equipment rooms

These reels are excellent where space restrictions or awkward angles are concerns.

7. Stainless Steel Fire Hose Reel

A stainless steel fire hose reel is built for longevity and aesthetics.

Why Stainless Steel?

• Corrosion-resistant—ideal near the ocean or in humid environments

• Tough, durable, and long-lasting

• Easy to maintain

• Sleek design suitable for high-end buildings

They are especially recommended for:

• Coastal areas

• Food processing facilities

• Chemical plants

• Architecturally modern buildings

8. Green Wash Down Fire Hose Reel

Unlike traditional reels used for firefighting, the green washdown hose reel is built for cleaning and maintenance tasks in industrial or commercial settings.

Features:

• Designed for general washdown, not fire suppression

• Supports water conservation

• Durable for high-frequency, heavy-duty use

• Ideal for farms, workshops, factories, and food prep areas

While not used for firefighting, it’s extremely useful in environments where cleanliness and sanitation are critical.

9. Blue Foam Fire Hose Reel

The blue foam fire hose reel is crafted specifically for environments where foam suppression is essential—particularly for combating Class B liquid fires.

Advantages of Blue Foam Reels:

• Foam smothers fire more effectively than water for flammable liquids

• Quick deployment

• User-friendly and reliable

• Ideal for areas where fuel, chemicals, oils, or solvents are present

They support both safety and operational efficiency in high-risk locations.

10. Factors to Consider When Selecting a Fire Hose Reel

Choosing the right reel requires evaluating several critical factors:

1. Hose Length & Coverage

Match hose length to the building layout. Consider obstacles, room size, and access points.

2. Pressure Rating & Flow Rate

Ensure compatibility with your water supply to maintain effective fire suppression.

3. Material & Durability

Look for:

• Anti-corrosion coatings

• Stainless steel options for harsh environments

• High-quality nozzles and connectors

4. Mounting and Accessibility

Reels must:

• Be visible

• Be easily accessible

• Have enough clearance for full hose extension

5. Environment & Fire Hazard Type

Different settings require specific reel types (foam reels, stainless steel reels, etc.).

6. Budget & Maintenance

Balance cost with durability. Consider long-term value, not just initial price.

11. Fire Hose Reel Standards and Compliance (AS 2441-2005)

In Australia, fire hose reels must comply with AS 2441-2005, which outlines the installation, material quality, performance standards, and placement requirements.

Why Is Compliance Important?

• Ensures safety and reliability

• Meets insurance expectations

• Reduces liability

• Guarantees that the equipment performs correctly during emergencies

Always verify that your fire hose reel is certified and compliant.

12. Assessing Environments and Fire Hazards

Different locations present unique fire challenges. Here’s how to choose the right reel based on the setting:

Industrial Facilities

• High heat, chemicals, oils

• Best options: 50m reels, foam reels, stainless steel reels

Commercial Buildings

• Offices, malls, schools

• Best options: 36m or 50m reels, automatic reels

Residential Buildings

• Apartments, housing complexes

• Best options: Compact standard reels

Outdoor Areas

• Parks, construction sites

• Best options: Weather-resistant stainless steel reels

13. Additional Considerations

Before purchasing, evaluate:

Climate Conditions

Extreme heat, cold, or UV exposure can damage low-quality reels.

Maintenance Requirements

Ensure reels are easy to inspect, test, and maintain.

Cost Efficiency

Long-term performance often outweighs initial cost savings.

Conclusion

Selecting the right fire hose reel is essential for effective fire safety planning. By understanding fire hazards, choosing the correct reel type, evaluating materials and compliance standards, and considering your specific environment, you can significantly strengthen your fire protection system.

A well-chosen fire hose reel can save lives, property, and time—making it a critical investment for any facility, home, or workplace.

FAQs

1. How often should fire hose reels be inspected?

Every six months, but always follow manufacturer guidelines and local regulations.

2. Can a fire hose reel be used for all fire classes?

No. They are recommended primarily for Class A fires. For other classes, use specialised extinguishers or foam reels.

3. Are there specific rules for fire hose reel placement?

Yes. Reels must be visible, accessible, and located near fire risks. Follow local codes and AS 2441-2005 for proper installation.

This article is intended to provide general information and is not customised for any individual's specific circumstances.