Halon for fire suppression was once considered the gold standard for protecting sensitive environments like data centers, server rooms, aircraft, and military installations. However, since 1994, halon production has been banned due to its severe impact on the ozone layer. If you have a legacy halon system or are researching fire protection options, this guide will help you understand your options and the best path forward.
What is Halon Fire Suppression?
Halon is a liquefied, compressed gas that extinguishes fires by interrupting the chemical chain reaction that fuels combustion. The two most common types are:
- Halon 1301 (Bromotrifluoromethane/CBrF₃) – Used in fixed flooding systems for total room protection
- Halon 1211 (Bromochlorodifluoromethane/CBrClF₂) – Used in portable fire extinguishers
Halon was introduced in the 1960s and quickly became the preferred fire suppression agent for environments where water damage would be catastrophic, including:
How Halon Works
Unlike water or CO₂ that work by cooling or smothering fires, halon chemically interrupts the fire's chain reaction. It does this by releasing bromine atoms that combine with the active radicals in flames, breaking the combustion cycle. This makes halon extremely fast-acting (10 seconds or less) and leaves no residue.
Why Was Halon Production Banned?
In 1987, the Montreal Protocol identified halon as one of the most damaging substances to the Earth's ozone layer. By January 1, 1994, production and import of virgin halon was banned in the United States under the Clean Air Act.
The environmental concerns with halon include:
One pound of halon destroys 10-16 times more ozone than one pound of CFCs
5,400 times more potent than CO₂ as a greenhouse gas
Halon persists in the atmosphere for 65 years after release
Important Distinction
The ban applies to production and import of new halon—not the use of existing systems. There are no federal or state regulations prohibiting the use of halon fire suppression systems. Existing systems can continue to operate, and recycled halon is available for servicing.
Where is Halon Still Used Today?
Despite the production ban, halon remains in use for certain critical applications where alternatives have not been fully approved or where the existing investment in halon systems is significant:
- Aviation – Commercial and military aircraft still rely heavily on halon for engine nacelles and cargo compartments
- Military – Ships, tanks, and combat vehicles often use halon systems
- Legacy data centers – Some facilities continue to operate older halon systems (see our halon system service for maintenance options)
- Oil & gas – Certain offshore platforms and exploration applications
Recycled halon is sourced from "Halon Banks"—facilities that collect, reclaim, and redistribute halon from decommissioned systems. However, as the supply of recycled halon decreases and prices increase, most organizations are transitioning to modern alternatives.
What Replaced Halon for Fire Suppression?
Several clean agent fire suppression systems have replaced halon since production was banned in 1994. The most widely adopted replacements fall into three categories: halocarbon agents (FM-200, FE-25), inert gas systems (Inergen, Argonite), and fluoroketone agents (Novec 1230). The EPA's SNAP program has also approved not-in-kind alternatives including CO₂ systems, water mist, and aerosol suppressants.
Here is every major halon replacement available today:
FM-200 (HFC-227ea)
HalocarbonThe most widely used halon replacement worldwide with over 100,000 installations. Extinguishes fires in 10 seconds, leaves no residue, and is safe for occupied spaces.
Best for: Data centers, server rooms, telecom facilities
Novec 1230 (FK-5-1-12)
FluoroketoneUltra-low GWP of 1 and atmospheric lifetime of just 5 days. Excellent environmental profile but 3M discontinued production in 2025.
Best for: Museums, archives, heritage buildings
Inergen (IG-541)
Inert GasA blend of 52% nitrogen, 40% argon, and 8% CO₂. Reduces oxygen to ~12.5% to suppress fire while the CO₂ component stimulates breathing to keep the space survivable.
Best for: Archives, museums, clean rooms, occupied spaces
FE-25 (HFC-125)
HalocarbonThe closest chemical match to halon among modern alternatives. Fast-acting and effective on Class A, B, and C fires.
Best for: EDP rooms, clean rooms, aircraft engine nacelles
CO₂ Systems
Inert GasBudget-friendly total flooding option. Extremely effective but displaces oxygen to lethal levels—only suitable for unoccupied spaces with proper lockout safeguards.
Best for: Industrial facilities, unoccupied enclosures
Argonite (IG-55)
Inert GasA 50/50 blend of nitrogen and argon. Completely inert with zero ODP and zero GWP. Unlimited natural supply.
Best for: Data centers, telecommunications, occupied spaces
Water Mist
Not-in-KindFine water droplets that cool the fire and displace oxygen. No chemical agents involved. Effective on Class A and B fires.
Best for: Machinery spaces, turbine enclosures, marine applications
Aerosol Systems
Not-in-KindCondensed aerosol generators that produce ultra-fine potassium particles. Compact, low maintenance, and require no pressurized piping.
Best for: Small enclosures, electrical cabinets, vehicle engine bays
Halon Alternative Comparison Table
Side-by-side comparison of the most common halon replacements across key performance and environmental metrics:
| Property | Halon 1301 | FM-200 | Novec 1230 | Inergen | CO₂ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemical Type | Halocarbon | Halocarbon (HFC) | Fluoroketone | Inert gas blend | Inert gas |
| Ozone Depletion (ODP) | 10-16 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Global Warming (GWP) | 5,400 | 3,220 | 1 | 0 | 1 |
| Atmospheric Lifetime | 65 years | 33 years | 5 days | N/A | N/A |
| Discharge Time | 10 sec | 10 sec | 10 sec | 60 sec | 60 sec |
| Safe for Occupied Spaces | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| NOAEL | 5% | 9% | 10% | 43% | N/A |
| Fire Classes | A, B, C | A, B, C | A, B, C | A, B, C | B, C |
| Residue | None | None | None | None | None |
| NFPA Standard | 12A | 2001 | 2001 | 2001 | 12 |
| Current Availability | Recycled only | Widely available | Limited | Widely available | Widely available |
| Relative Cost | High (scarcity) | Moderate | Higher | Higher (tanks) | Low |
Note on Novec 1230
3M announced in 2025 that they are discontinuing production of Novec 1230 (also known as 3M™ Novec™ 1230 Fire Protection Fluid). While existing systems will continue to be supported, FM-200 has become the recommended alternative for new installations.
How to Choose the Right Halon Replacement for Your Facility
The best halon replacement depends on your facility type, the fire classes you need to protect against, whether people occupy the space, and your budget. Here is a quick decision framework:
By Facility Type
- Data centers & server rooms — FM-200 or Inergen
- Museums & archives — Novec 1230 or FM-200
- Telecom & switchgear — FM-200
- Industrial (unoccupied) — CO₂ or inert gas
- Marine & offshore — FM-200 or Novec 1230
- Military & aviation — Recycled halon (still authorized)
- Electrical cabinets — Aerosol systems
By Fire Class
- Class A (ordinary combustibles) — FM-200, Inergen, Novec 1230
- Class B (flammable liquids) — FM-200, CO₂, FE-25
- Class C (electrical) — FM-200, Inergen, Novec 1230, CO₂
- Class D (metals) — Specialized agents only; no clean agent option
By Budget
- Budget — CO₂ (lowest cost, unoccupied spaces only)
- Mid-range — FM-200 (best balance of cost and performance)
- Premium — Novec 1230 (lowest environmental impact)
- Highest initial — Inert gas systems (largest tanks, but zero GWP)
Our Recommendation
For most commercial applications in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, FM-200 provides the best combination of fire suppression performance, occupant safety, availability, and cost. If your existing halon system infrastructure is intact, conversion to FM-200 is often the most cost-effective path forward.
FM-200: The Premier Halon Replacement
FM-200 (HFC-227ea) was introduced in 1994 as the first clean agent alternative to halon and has become the most widely used clean agent fire suppression system worldwide. It is the industry-standard halon replacement for data centers, server rooms, and sensitive equipment areas.
FM-200 Advantages
- Zero ozone depletion potential (ODP = 0)
- Extinguishes fires in 10 seconds or less
- Leaves no residue—no cleanup required
- Safe for occupied spaces (NOAEL = 9%)
- Does not damage electronics or equipment
- Widely available and cost-effective
- Many halon systems can be converted
Ideal Applications
- Data centers and server rooms
- Telecommunications facilities
- Control rooms and switchgear
- Museums and archives
- Medical imaging equipment (MRI, CT)
- Laboratories with sensitive equipment
- UPS and battery rooms
Need to Replace Your Halon System?
Security Dynamics provides expert halon-to-FM-200 conversion services throughout NJ & PA. NJ Fire License #P00747.
Halon System Upgrade Process
Converting a halon system to FM-200 is often more straightforward than installing a completely new system. Many existing components can be reused:
System Assessment
Our licensed technicians evaluate your existing halon system, room dimensions, and protection requirements.
Design & Engineering
We design the FM-200 system to meet NFPA 2001 requirements, often reusing existing piping and detection.
Halon Recovery
Existing halon is safely recovered and sent to a certified Halon Bank for recycling or proper disposal.
System Conversion
New FM-200 cylinders and components are installed. Control panels are updated or replaced.
Testing & Certification
Full system testing, room integrity testing, and documentation for code compliance and insurance.
Typical Conversion Timeline
Most halon-to-FM-200 conversions can be completed in 1-3 days depending on system size and complexity. We schedule work to minimize downtime to your critical operations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is halon still legal for fire suppression?
Yes, using halon fire suppression systems is still legal in the United States. The 1994 ban applied to production and import of new halon, not its use. Existing systems can continue to operate, and recycled halon is available for servicing legacy systems.
How much does it cost to replace a halon system with FM-200?
Halon to FM-200 conversion costs typically range from $15,000 to $50,000+ depending on room size, system complexity, and existing infrastructure. Since many halon system components can be reused, conversion is often more cost-effective than a completely new installation.
Can I still get halon to service my existing system?
Yes, recycled halon is available from certified Halon Banks. However, supply is limited and prices continue to increase. Most organizations are choosing to convert to FM-200 rather than continue paying premium prices for recycled halon.
Is FM-200 as effective as halon?
Yes, FM-200 is highly effective and comparable to halon in fire suppression performance. Both extinguish fires in 10 seconds or less, leave no residue, and are safe for electronics. FM-200 has the advantage of zero ozone depletion potential.
What happens to the old halon when we convert?
During conversion, the existing halon is safely recovered by certified technicians and sent to a Halon Bank. The halon is either recycled for use in applications where no alternatives exist (like aviation) or destroyed according to EPA guidelines.
Do I need to replace my entire fire suppression system?
Not necessarily. In many cases, existing piping, nozzles, and detection systems can be reused. The main components that need replacement are the halon cylinders and agent, and sometimes the control panel. Our assessment will identify what can be retained.
What is the most common replacement for halon?
FM-200 (HFC-227ea) is the most widely adopted halon replacement, with over 100,000 installations worldwide. It has zero ozone depletion potential, extinguishes fires in 10 seconds, and is safe for occupied spaces. FM-200 is the standard choice for data centers, server rooms, and telecommunications facilities.
Is Inergen better than FM-200?
Both are effective halon replacements with different strengths. Inergen (IG-541) has zero global warming potential and uses naturally occurring gases, but requires larger storage cylinders and takes 60 seconds to discharge. FM-200 is more compact, discharges in 10 seconds, and is more cost-effective for most applications. Inergen is preferred when zero environmental impact is the top priority.
Can I still buy halon fire extinguishers?
No new halon fire extinguishers are manufactured. Recycled Halon 1211 extinguishers can sometimes be obtained from specialized suppliers, but supply is limited and costs are increasing. Most facilities should transition to clean agent alternatives like Halotron I for portable extinguishers or FM-200 for fixed systems.
What replaced halon in aircraft?
Aviation still primarily uses recycled halon because the FAA has not yet approved a universal replacement for all aircraft applications. HFC-125 (FE-25) has been approved for some engine nacelle uses. The aviation industry is actively researching alternatives, but the unique performance requirements make aircraft fire suppression replacement particularly challenging.
What is the AIM Act and how does it affect fire suppression?
The American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act of 2020 mandates an 85% phase-down of HFC production in the U.S. by 2036. This affects FM-200 (HFC-227ea) long-term, though existing systems can continue to be serviced. The AIM Act is driving increased interest in Inergen and other inert gas systems that are not affected by HFC regulations.
Ready to Upgrade from Halon to FM-200?
Security Dynamics has been providing fire protection services in New Jersey and Pennsylvania since 1985. Our licensed technicians specialize in clean agent fire suppression systems and halon-to-FM-200 conversions.
NJ Fire License #P00747 | Serving Mercer County NJ, Bucks County PA & Ocean County NJ
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