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.
Modern Halon Alternatives
Several clean agent fire suppression systems have been developed to replace halon, offering similar performance without the environmental damage:
| Property | Halon 1301 | FM-200 | Novec 1230 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ozone Depletion Potential | 10-16 (Very High) | 0 (None) | 0 (None) |
| Global Warming Potential | 5,400 | 3,220 | 1 |
| Atmospheric Lifetime | 65 years | 33 years | 5 days |
| Discharge Time | 10 seconds | 10 seconds | 10 seconds |
| Safe for Occupied Spaces | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Residue After Discharge | None | None | None |
| Current Availability | Recycled only | Widely available | Limited (3M discontinued) |
| Relative Cost | High (scarcity) | Moderate | Higher |
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.
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.
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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