Can you name the different types of fire sprinkler systems?
Many people know that fire sprinkler systems save lives. But can you name the different types of fire sprinkler systems? We would bet that if this were a game show question, millions of Americans would not successfully answer the question, and that’s okay. Today we’re here to educate and inform. There are about seven different types, but today we’ll discuss four of them.
Wet Pipe Fire Sprinkler Systems
Commercial properties often use this system the most because it is very reliable and straightforward. We’ll explain how it works. This system employs automatic sprinkler heads attached to a piping system. This piping system contains water and connects to a water supply so that water will discharge right away when the sprinkler head detects heat from a fire.
Dry Pipe Fire Sprinkler Systems
This alternative is the second most popular fire sprinkler system. This system works well in unheated buildings because you never want the water supply in a wet pipe system to freeze. A parking garage or warehouse is a prime example of a space that is suitable for a dry pipe system. Instead of water, there is low-pressure air or nitrogen in the piping. When a sprinkler head activates, it opens what we call a dry pipe valve. The drop in air pressure allows water to vent through the piping and control the fire.
Deluge Fire Sprinkler Systems
This type of system works the best in areas where fire spreads rapidly. This design involves all the sprinklers connected to the water piping being open to simultaneously shoot out a jet of water over the entire area affected. If a fire breaks out, an alarm sounds off, and a deluge valve opens, allowing water to flow.
Pre-Action Fire Sprinkler Systems
There are two types of systems that fall under this category:
- Single Interlock – Similar to a dry pipe system, but needs a smoke detector to go off for it to activate. An “action” has to active it. It goes from a dry pipe system to a wet pipe system to reduce the delay of water distribution that tends to happen with dry pipe systems.
- Double Interlock – Similar to deluge systems, but they come with automatic sprinklers. They also need an “action” to occur before the water goes to the piping. Otherwise, water will not flow to the vents.
Congratulations! You are one step closer to winning “fire safety” trivia. Also, what type of fire sprinkler system you need will put you one step closer to making your building safe, and we can help you with that.
Commercial and Residential Fire Prevention from Judd Fire Protection
If you want to ensure your home and business are safe throughout the year, trust Judd Fire Protection, LLC. We have over two decades of experience in designing, installing, inspecting, and repairing residential and commercial fire protection systems. We serve clients throughout Maryland, Pennsylvania, Washington, D.C., Virginia, and West Virginia. If you are interested in finding out more about our services and protecting your home and business, give us a call at 410-871-3480 or contact us online. For more fire safety tips, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.