How does a stored-pressure water extinguisher operate compared to a pump-tank water extinguisher?

A stored-pressure water extinguisher operates using a pressurized gas to expel water from the extinguisher when the valve is opened. This design allows the extinguisher to be ready for use at any moment, providing a quick and effective way to fight fires, especially in initial stages. The pressurized system means that firefighters can deliver a consistent stream of water without needing to manually pump or generate pressure at the time of use.

In contrast, a pump-tank water extinguisher requires manual pumping to build up pressure within the tank before it can produce a stream of water. This means the user must expend some effort to create the necessary pressure each time the extinguisher is used, which can delay response time, particularly in urgent situations.

By utilizing a stored-pressure method, this type of extinguisher is considered to operate in a more automatic way, as the user simply needs to pull the pin and squeeze the handle to release the water. This feature enhances the speed and efficiency at which firefighters can respond to a fire incident.