(800) 418-1844
Best Home Fireproof Safe: A Security Box for All Budgets (Top 10)
Best Home Fireproof Safe: A Security Box for All Budgets (Top 10)
Are your valuables safe from fire? Would your important documents such as licenses, digital storage devices like USB drives, business records, title deed, debit cards, certificates, money, passport and other important items be safe in case your home or office caught fire? Losing such documents is among the worst things that can happen to you because some of these documents are impossible to replace. If you don’t have a convenient place where you can keep your sensitive items safely from fire, it is time you invest in a fire resistant box safe.
As compared to other safes, fireproof safes contain a heavy insulation which enables them to protect your items from heat, fire, water and smoke. These safes are tested and rated by the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) which is a global safety and certification company. The UL provides different fire ratings which means that they do not provide the same level of protection even if they are all fireproof.
Since fireproof safes are so many on the market, it is easy to get confused when searching for a reliable model. To make your work easier, today we shall reveal the 10 best home fireproof safes that can provide unmatched protection to your valuables.
What Research and The Pros Say About Fireproof Safes
Here’s what I was surprised to find after research and talking with the pros
- Getting a truly fireproof safe is unrealistic as it would be very expensive. A “fireproof” safe is better described as a “fire resistant safe”.
- Did you know that a waterproof safe is not to protect your valuables from floods. A fire resistant safe that is also waterproof protects your safes contents from the deluge of water that fire-fighters may use to put out a fire. In other words, your valuables may survive a fire but get destroyed by water if the safe is not water resistant.
- What’s so special about the one hour and two hour fire ratings? The period of protection is based on data: the average home fire can take 20-40 minutes to put out. Having a fire rating that protects your valuables up to two hours allows for a margin of error.
- A key aspect (pun intended!) of a safe is the locking mechanism. Better safes have better locks so focus on the locking mechanism when buying a safe. A key lock safe is traditional and least protective, while a biometric is relatively high-tech. Some safes come with a secondary locking key, back up keys and the like, because the most frequent troubleshooting issues for safes are about the locks.
- While manufacturer’s cannot protect you in all instances from fires which by nature can be very different, some offer a lifetime after fire guarantee.
How to Choose the Best Fireproof Home Safe
When searching for the best fireproof safe, you should consider the following:
Fire rating - The major reason why you are purchasing a fireproof safe is because you want a model that can offer the best protection for your documents or valuables in case of fire. There are two main aspects for fire protection: (1) the temperature the safe can withstand and (2) the duration for which the safe can withstand temperatures in (1).
You will find that fireproof safes have a different fire rating meaning that they do not provide the same level of protection. Therefore, you should consider a model that provides the highest rating of at least 1 hour (since most house fires are about 1 hour). The best ones are those that can withstand high temperatures for more than 2 hours like the Hollon 2 Hour Fire and Water Resistant Home Safe.
Type of lock - Fireproof safes are equipped with 3 different locking mechanisms which include ;
-
Digital keypad: These ones require you to use a special pass-code when opening. Unlike other types of locks, they require batteries to function.
-
Combination lock: These ones feature a dial that should be turned to match a certain sequence of numbers when opening the safe. Due to this, they are extremely secure. Some of these safes like the Amazon Basics Fire Resistant Security Safe come with a back-up key which you can use to access the unit in case you forget the combination.
-
Key lock: These ones are the simplest to access since you only need to open them using a key just like the ordinary door. Unfortunately they do not provide the best protection.
-
Biometric lock: These have advanced electronics to detect a biological feature that has been programmed to operate the lock, instead of a key. The most common feature is a fingerprint reader.
Size - Fireproof safes are available in different sizes. When determining the correct size (usually in cubic feet of interior storage), you need to think of the available space in your home and also the type of items you want to store in the safe. In case you would also want to store your digital media in the safe, you should look for a model that guarantees protection for such items through lower interior temperature or EMP shielding.
Burglary and waterproof protection - Most fireproof safes are only designed to protect your items from fire. In case you want a model that will give you the best protection, you need to ensure that it also provides burglary and water protection irrespective of price.
Our Top 10 Picks
|
Product Name |
Best for |
Check price |
|
SentrySafe SFW123GDC |
Best overall |
|
|
Socal Eurovault EV-4517 |
Best commercial safe |
|
|
AMSEC Light and Secure Home Safe EST813 |
Most portable safe |
https://usasafeandvault.com/collections/home-safe/products/amsec-light-and-secure-home-safe-est813
|
|
Hollon 2 Hour Fire and Water Resistant Home Safe |
Most fire resistant |
|
|
Winchester 1 Hour Fireproof Home and Home Office Safe |
Most durable |
|
|
SentrySafe Fire Chest SFW205UPC |
Most advanced |
|
| Hayman Same Flame Vault 1 Hour Fire Protection FV-151 |
Most Stylish |
|
|
Gardall 1612/2 2 Hour Fire and Burglary Safe |
Best for money |
|
|
AmazonBasics Fire Resistant Security Safe |
Best for budget |
|
|
First Alert 2092DF-BD 1 Hour Fire Safe |
Most spacious |
Top 10 Fireproof Safes for Homes in 2021
1. SentrySafe SFW123GDC – Best Overall
The SentrySafe SFW123GDC is among the most amazing fireproof safes you can find on the market. One of the best things about it is that it is UL listed to protect your items for up to 1 hour at 1700⁰F. Apart from that, it is ETL certified to provide excellent protection to your digital media items such as CDs, DVDs, Flash drives and USB drives.
Another great feature is that it is able to protect your items from water for up to 8 inches in 24 hours. This means that it is also ETL certified for water resistance. It is also ETL verified to withstand impact up to 15 feet in case it falls. This means that if the floor below it burns, the safe will remain intact and closed even if it falls.
In order to enhance strength, the door is reinforced with a pry-resistant hinge bar which also prevents forced entry. An interior light (LED) is also included to enhance visibility especially at night. The safe also comes with an interior locking drawer where you can safely keep your fragile or very important items.
Pros
- Stylish design
- Able to withstand up to 1700⁰F temperatures for 1 hour
- Digital keypad with a backlit
- Pry-resistant hinge bar
- Impact resistance up to 15ft
- 4 live locking bolts
Cons
- Cheaply made
2. Socal Safes Eurovault EV-4517 – Best for commercial use
If you are searching for a durable and top-quality commercial fireproof safe, the Socal Safe Eurovault EV-4517 will be an awesome choice. This unit has an external measurement of 49 x 21 x 23.5 inches and an internal measurement of 45 x 17 x 17 inches. It has a fireproof UL rating of 1500⁰F for 1 hour. It is equipped with 1 ¼ inch 3-way chrome plated bolts which have an auto-lock bolt detect. It also comes with a drill resistant stainless steel fascia panel plus 2 inches thick barrier walls.
Additionally, it comes with adjustable shelves where you can place different items. The unit also boasts a sturdy construction since it is made of a high density composite. An auto firing passive relocker provides extra protection during a forced entry. You should also note that the unit has a UL Listed group II combination lock which features a satin finish dial.
Pros
- Top security re-locker
- Auto-lock bolt detect
- Drill resistant hard plate
- Adjustable shelves
- 2-inches thick barrier walls
- 3-way bolt work
Cons
- Heavy
3. AMSEC Light and Secure Home Safe EST813 – Most portable safe
The AMSEC Light and Secure Home Safe EST813 is designed for those searching for an affordable and portable safe. It is made from a 14-gauge steel construction meaning that it is built to last. It comes with dual live bolts which are made of a thick gauge steel. The unit is also equipped with an E-lock which contains a large touch-screen keypad. Whether you are in need of a portable safe you can use in your office, home or RV, this unit is among the best.
For easier use, this security box is equipped with an LCD display and a bounce-proof electronic lock. Through the LCD display, you can check battery status, date and time. You can either bolt it on the wall or floor during installation. You will also find that it comes with a carpeted base which protects your items from scratches.
Moreover, it has a pry-resistant recessed door which contains internal hinges to enhance anti-theft protection. Other advanced features you will find in this unit include an emergency key-lock override system which contains 2 keys, battery lock, power override, motion detector alert and an inbuilt pry-proof function.
Pros
- Compact design
- Large LCD display
- Heavy-duty 14-gauge construction
- Carpeted base
- Pry-resistant recessed door
- Easy to mount on the wall or floor
- Anti-theft protection
Cons
- Limited capacity
4. Hollon 2 Hour Fire and Water Resistant Home Safe HS-500D –Most fire resistant
As compared to other safes on the market, this 2 hr safe is more resistant to fire since it can withstand high heat for up to 2 hours. It is equipped with thicker doors and thicker walls which makes it effective in protecting your items from fire. The unit is also equipped with a grooved door seal which protects the inner part from water from a fireman’s hose or sprinkles. Even with blazing 1850⁰F temperatures, this unit is able to maintain its internal temperatures of 350⁰F.
In addition, it is able to withstand impact up to 30 foot meaning that it can fall and remain closed. The external measurements of this unit are 19 ¾ x 13 ¾ x 16 ¾ inches while the internal measurements are 15 x 9 2/7 x12 inches. It also has an internal capacity of 0.94 cubic feet. Other features you will find in this unit are a dial lock, 1 removable shelf, 1 anchoring hole for concrete installation.
Pros
- 2 hour fire rated at 1850⁰F temperatures
- Seamless door and body construction
- It comes with bolting hardware
- Easy to install
- 2 active round locking bolts included
Cons
- None
5. Winchester 1 Hour Fireproof Home and Office Safe –Most durable
Winchester 1 Hour Fireproof Safe is among the most stylish fireproof safes on the market. Despite its stylish design, this unit comes with unique features which you can never find in cheaper models. To start with, it has a powder coated sandstone exterior which gives it an attractive look. In order to create space for extra items, it is equipped with an adjustable shelving system which allows you to customize the interior to suit your storage needs. Unlike others, it is equipped with an outstanding EMP-resistant electronic lock to enhance security.
When it comes to reliability, this safe has a fireproof rating of 1 hour for 1400⁰F temperatures. In order to enhance its overall strength, it is equipped with sturdy steel external hinges and pre-drilled holes for easier mounting on the floor. These holes prevent tipping for pry leverage and it also protects it from theft. The body is made of a thick 12 gauge steel while the recessed door contains deadlocking bolts to prevent burglary attacks. The unit also comes with a lifetime free replacement which means that it is 100% reliable. You will also be pleased to note that it exceeds the California DOJ requirements.
Pros
- Pre-drilled anchoring holes
- Solid steel 12 gauge construction
- Exceeds DOJ requirements
- UL Listed
- EMP-Resistant electronic lock
- Lifetime free replacement
Cons
- Expensive but worth it
6. SentrySafe Fire Chest SFW205UPC – Most advanced
Unlike most fireproof safes on the market, the SentrySafe Fire Chest SFW205UPC Safe comes with inbuilt loud alarms which alerts the owner in case there is an attempt to access the unit. It also comes with a dial touch lock plus a key which provides quick access to the unit. In order to prevent forced entry, the safe has a pry resistant hinge bar plus 6 large 1-inch bolts. These features enable the unit to provide unmatched protection to your items.
Another remarkable thing about this unit is that it has a fire resistant UL rating of 1hour. It has a steel encased fire insulation which enables it to withstand high heat of up to 1700⁰F for 1 hour. Due to the rugged construction, it provides up to 24 hours water protection up to 8 inches. Apart from that, it can withstand a 15' drop and it is also ETL certified for 1 hour digital media protection.
Pros
- Inbuilt alarms
- Easy to use
- Dial touch lock
- Water and fire resistant
- Elegant design
- ETL certified for digital media protection
Cons
- Very heavy
7. Hayman Safe Flame Vault 1 Hour Fire Protection FV-151- Most stylish
For those searching for a stylish fireproof safe that can protect your items and documents from fire and theft, the Hayman Safe Flame Vault FV-151 Safe will be a great choice. It is made of top-quality materials which means that you can trust it to protect your valuables from fire. Some of the notable features that come with this unit are an attractive tri-spoke handle that makes it easy to open plus a digital electronic lock that protects the unit from unauthorized entry. It has a fire rating of 1700⁰F for 1 hour meaning that it is highly resistant to fire.
Apart from that, it comes with a removable drawer that creates additional space for more items. Moreover, it has an anchor hole at the center plus a dial combination lock. Overall, it is a great option even for those who are on a budget since it comes with an affordable price.
Pros
- Removable drawer
- Attractive color
- 1 hour fire protection
- Affordable price
- Unique tri-spoke handle
- Reliable electronic dial combination lock
Cons
- Not very spacious
8. Gardall 1612/2 2 Hour Fire and Burglary Safe –Best for money
Anyone who doesn’t mind investing more to get the best 2 hr fire safe should definitely look for the Gardall 1612/2 2 Hour Fire and Burglary Safe. Just as the name suggests, this safe provides the best protection against burglary and fire. It has an outer measurement of 23 ¼ x 17 ¼ x 19 ¾ inches and an internal measurement of 16 x 12 x 11 ¾ inches. Its construction features a 4.5 inch thick door which has excellent pry resistance. The walls of the safe are 2.5 inches thick meaning that it is very strong.
It also comes with a solid chrome handle which has a shear point that protects it from forced entry. The independent relocker plus the hard plate prevents drilling attacks. Additionally, it comes with a UL listed Group II security lock. Again, it has been proven to endure 2 hours when exposed to severe fire or temperatures of up to 1850⁰F meaning that it is very reliable. It also comes with a plush suede-like interior which protects your valuables. Another great thing about it is that it comes with a lifetime replacement guarantee.
Pros
- Fire rating of 2 hours at 1850⁰F
- Pry resistant
- Provides unmatched protection against burglary
- Independent relocker prevents drilling attacks
- Solid-chrome plated handle
- Lifetime replacement warranty
Cons
- Expensive
9. AmazonBasics Fire Resistant Security Safe - Best for budget
First of all this security box has so many customer reviews which means that you can rely on its quality. If you are searching for a cheap alternative, the AmazonBasics Fire Resistant Security Safe will be a great choice since it comes with a very affordable price. Apart from the cheap price, it boasts a heavy-duty 14 gauge construction to enhance durability. It is also equipped with an electronic keypad which gives you quick access. A back-up key is also included for emergency access.
In order to create more storage space for your items, the safe has an adjustable shelf. You will also be pleased to note that it complies with the new UL 72 requirements for fire resistance. It can withstand temperatures of 1200 degrees for 20 minutes. This means that it may not provide the best fire protection as compared to the expensive models. In order to enhance security, this unit comes with 4 large 0.75 inch bolts. If you are searching for a portable safe, you can never go wrong with this one.
Pros
- 14-gauge steel body
- Compact design
- Electronic keypad
- 0.8 cubic feet fire resistance
- Adjustable shelf
- 1 year warranty
Cons
- Not very reliable
- Limited capacity
10. First Alert 2092DF-BD 1 Hour Fire Safe – Most spacious
The First Alert 2092DF-BD 1 Hour Fire Safe can be used to safeguard your items from water, fire and theft. The good thing about it is that it is fireproof and water resistant. It has a capacity of 1.3 cubic feet which means that it provides enough space for storing different items such as documents, jewelry, money and other precious items. The unit comes with a digital lock which can be programmed using 3-8 digit pass code. You will be pleased to note that it has been proved by an independent testing laboratory to protect electronic media such as CDs, flash drives, external hard drives and DVDs.
Another impressive thing about this security box is that it is able to withstand high temperatures of up to 1700⁰F for 1 hour while it maintains its internal temperature of 350⁰F. In order to enhance safety, it comes with pry-proof concealed hinges which are resistant to forced break-in attempts. The safe has the capability of remaining waterproof even when it is fully submerged. Unlike others, it uses an advanced, bolt-down technology which enables you to fasten it for extra disaster proofing. The door is firmly secured by 4 live locking bolts which make it impossible to break.
Pros
- Spacious fireproof safe
- Unique bolt-down technology
- Pry-proof canceled hinges
- Programmable digital lock
- Waterproof and fireproof safe
- Adjustable storage shelf
Cons
- Not easy to carry
FAQs | What Readers Want to Know
Are home safes really fireproof?
Only to a point. Fireproof safes are not 100% fireproof. They are only able to protect your items for a specific time (e.g. up to one hour) which means that the contents can still get burned if exposed to extreme temperatures and extended time at these temperatures.
Is a fireproof safe worth it?
Yes, usually. But you must know what you are protecting against and the limitation of the safe you buy. You never know when your home or office can catch fire. In case your important documents like certificates, business records, digital media and other items get burned, it can be very difficult or impossible to replace them. This is why it is important to invest in the best fireproof safe.
What is the highest rated fire safe?
The highest fire rating is the UL Class 350 2 hour rating for commercial safes. This keeps internal temperatures in a safe, under 350-degrees Fahrenheit in a 1,700-degree-F fire, for 2 hours. This means that paper documents are usually protected.
Final Verdict
Fireproof safes are among the most reliable safes on the market because they protect your sensitive items from fire. Apart from fire, some models also protect your valuables from burglary, water and theft. If you are searching for the best fireproof safe that will give you the best value for your money, the Gardall 1612/2 2 Hour Fire and Burglary Safe is undoubtedly the best. Unlike others, this one is able to withstand extreme temperatures of up to 1850 degrees for 2 hours. Apart from that, it has excellent pry resistance and it also protects your items from burglary. In case you are searching for a cheaper option, SentrySafe SFW123GDC will be a great choice.
