SPRINKLER SYSTEM INSTALLATION AND REPAIR
How does an Automatic Sprinkler System Operate?
Automatic fire sprinklers are individually heat-activated, and tied into a network of piping with water under pressure. When the heat of a fire raises high enough to reach the sprinklers operating temperature (usually 165ºF), a solder link will melt or a liquid-filled glass bulb will shatter to open that single sprinkler, releasing water directly over the source of the heat.
Why Are Automatic Sprinkler Systems So Effective?
Sprinklers operate automatically in the area of fires origin, preventing a fire from growing undetected to a dangerous size, while simultaneously sounding an alarm. Automatic fire sprinklers keep fires small and controlled. The majority of fires in sprinklered buildings are contained by one or two sprinklers.
Why Are Sprinkler Important For Life Safety?
What Is The Life Safety Record In Sprinkled Buildings?
Aside from fire fighting and explosion fatalities, there has never been a multiple loss of life in a fully sprinklered building due to fire or smoke. Individual lives have been lost when the victim or his clothing or immediate surroundings became the source of the fire.
How Much Does A Sprinkler System Cost?
The cost of a complete sprinkler system depends on many factors, such as the building type and construction, availability of public water supply, and degree of hazard of the occupancy. For new construction, systems usually less than the cost of carpeting. Retrofit installations in existing buildings can be expected to cost somewhat more than for new construction, depending on the difficulty of installation and other factors.
What Are The Trade Offs?
The system cost can often be offset by insurance savings, and by specific design alternatives or “trade-offs” permitted by most building codes in view of the superior protection afforded by sprinklers. These trade-offs often include reduced fire-resistant requirements for structural components, longer exit travel distances, and larger building areas and heights.
If I have a sprinkler system, does it have to be maintained?
Yes, all sprinkler systems should be inspected and maintained after installation.
Ontario requires sprinkler systems to be Inspected and Tested in accordance with the NFPA 25 standard and the Ontario Fire Code.
When should I have my sprinkler system inspected?
This will vary depending on the type of devices installed on the system, the NFPA 25 suggests the following:
| Control Valves | Weekly/Monthly |
| Gauges (Dry, and Pre-action systems) | Quarterly |
| Gauges (Wet, and Deluge systems) | Quarterly |
| Waterflow alarm devices | Quarterly |
| Valve supervisory signal devices | Quarterly |
| Fire department connection | Quarterly |
| Supervisory signal devices | Annually |
| Hydraulic nameplate | Annually |
| Buildings | Annually |
| Hanger/seismic bracing | Annually |
| Pipe & Fittings | Annually |
| Sprinklers | Annually |
| Spare Sprinklers | Annually |
| Information sign | Annually |
| Obstruction, internal inspection of piping | Every 5 Years |
| Heat tracing | Per Manufacturer |
When should I have my sprinkler system tested?
This also depends on the type of devices installed on the system, the NFPA 25 suggests the following:
Your Insurance company may have requirements.
| Waterflow alarm devices | Quarterly |
| Supervisory signal devices | Quarterly |
| Vane and pressure switch-type device | Semi-Annually |
| Valve Supervisory signal devices | Semi-Annually |
| Main Drain | Annually |
| Antifreeze Solution | Annually |
| Valves (all types) | Annually |
| Heat tracing | Per manufacturer |
| Gauges Calibrate or Replace | Every 5 Years |
Please contact our Sales Department to REQUEST A QUOTE.
