Unlike the soda/acid or the foam fire extinguisher, the anti-freeze extinguisher most often does not use a chemical reaction to expel the contents of the can. Instead, the extinguisher is either already pressurized, or the pressure is generated by the user using a pump handle or activating a gas cartridge. The liquid inside these extinguishers are simple anti-freeze solutions, used in areas that often experience freezing temperatures.

Anti-freeze fire extinguishers operate very similarly to water fire extinguishers. They are identified by their pump handles, pressure gauges, or cartridges. Notable brands of anti-freeze extinguishers in the Koorsen Fire Museum are Elkhart, Ansul, and Fyr-Fyter.