3 Things You Can Do to Keep Your Fire Sprinkler System in Working Order

Having a fire sprinkler system is a great way to protect your home and office from fire. Since a fire sprinkler system is the first line of defense against the loss of property due to fire, you want to be sure that your sprinkler system is in proper working order at all times...otherwise, it is just glorified "room décor". So, what can you do to make sure that your system will work when or if it is needed? After all, a system is only as good as its maintenance. There are several precautionary measures you can take to make sure that your system is in proper working order. Here are the 3 main steps you should take:

Protecting Your Fires Sprinklers

Keep your fire sprinklers in working order by making sure that there is nothing blocking them. Be sure that there are no pictures or large pieces of furniture away from the walls where the sprinklers are installed. In addition, do not hang lamps or plants near the sprinklers. Also, remember to never use the sprinkler heads or pipes as hooks or "closet rods" as even lightweight items can damage the sprinkler system. Be sure that if you are painting the room, you keep paint away from the sprinkler or sprinkler cover. To paint in a room where these are installed, be sure to cover the sprinklers with plastic and then remove the plastic as soon as the job is completed.

Other precautionary steps to be taken include being very careful to avoid the spray heads when moving tall objects and teaching children not to play or touch (assuming they can reach it) the components of the system.

Keeping the Valve Turned on and Opened

It sounds obvious, but should still be checked. Be sure that the control is open. An opened control will be in line with the pipe while a closed one will form a right angle to the pipe. Many professional recommend using a padlock to keep the valve in the on position. In the event that your system is turned off, be sure that you turn it back on as soon as possible. You should also be sure to never store anything within 1 foot of the water controls as this can impede usage.

Water Flow Testing

At least once a year you need to test the rate of the water flow. Here are 6 easy steps to ensure your system is working properly:

1. If your sprinklers are connected to a central alarm, let the fire department know you will be conducting a test.
2. Find the flow test valve. It is usually labeled main drain, inspector test or test and drain.
3. Slowly turn on the control valve so that it is in line with the pipe.
4. When the water begins running, let it run for about a minute. If your system has an alarm it will sound.
5. Slowly turn the control valve off.
6. Write down the date you performed the test.

For more information on fire sprinkler systems contact Brothers Fire Protection of Minnesota.

Article independently authored by Janet Slagell. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Brothers Fire Protection. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.