What is a Dry pipe sprinkler systems?
A dry pipe sprinkler system is one in which pipes are filled with pressurized air or nitrogen, rather than water. This air holds a remote valve, known as a dry pipe valve, in a closed position. Located in a heated space, the dry-pipe valve prevents water from entering the pipe until a fire causes one or more sprinklers to operate. Once this happens, the air escapes and the dry pipe valve releases. Water then enters the pipe, flowing through open sprinklers onto the fire.
What is NFPA-25?
NFPA 25 is the baseline for inspection, testing, and maintenance of water-based fire protection systems. Compliance helps maximize system integrity to avoid failure and ensure fast, effective response in a fire emergency.
What is a mian drain test?
TThe main drain of an automatic sprinkler system is actually the water flow control valve. It's important to test the functioning of this value at least once per year to ensure proper water flow and pressure to the sprinkler system. The main drain test also indicates whether there are any blockages in the water pipes that risk damage to the system or a reduced or nonexistent water supply to the system during emergency use.
How often should my fire sprinkler system be inspected?
The NFPA recommends that your fire sprinkler system be tested by professional fire protection technicians at least four times per year. Since only the sprinkler nozzles are visible in most rooms, the only way to ensure that your fire sprinkler system is ready to quickly and effectively put out a fire emergency is through regular inspection.
How effective are fire sprinklers?
In home fires deemed large enough to activate an operational sprinkler, sprinklers operated and were effective 99% of the time.
What is a WET fire sprinkler system?
The fire sprinkler system is constantly charged with water under pressure, which holds the fire sprinkler valve in the closed position. When a fire sprinkler head is activated water instantly flows on to the fire.
What is a DRY fire sprinkler system?
Used where a frost risk may arise, the dry fire sprinkler system is constantly charged with compressed air, which holds the fire sprinkler valve in closed position. When a fire sprinkler head is activated, the air pressure is lost, the valve opens and water flows into the system and on to the fire.
How do I know my fire sprinkler system will work?
The laws set forth by your local fire department and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) protect you by making sure that all fire related systems are tested at regular intervals to insure proper operation of that system
Should I have my fire sprinkler system tested?
Your local fire department will notify you as to when and how often this should be done. The minimum testing would be annually and the maximum would be quarterly.