How Do I Maintain the Fire Sprinklers in My Building?

8/15/2020 (Permalink)

Maintain the fire sprinkers in your building

According to the National Fire Protection Association, an automatic sprinkler system can reduce property damage from a fire. It also keeps the heat and flames from spreading so you and your employees can safely get out of the building. It’s crucial to perform sprinkler maintenance to make sure the system works when you need it most.
You may forget about your sprinkler system because it doesn’t go off that frequently. You may not realize the sprinkler heads are coated in dirt and grease or that you’ve stacked boxes and blocked fire sprinklers.

Regular Maintenance

You should take a look at your system between annual inspections.

Weekly. Ensure nonelectric control valves have no leaks and are locked, sealed, and open. If you have a dry, pre-action system, check that gauges show normal water and air pressure.
Monthly. Check water flow alarms. If you have a wet pipe system, check the gauges.
Quarterly. Inspect the alarm devices, control valves, and hydraulic nameplates.

Annual Inspections
Have a licensed technician come in once a year for sprinkler maintenance to ensure the system is functioning and up to code. They will inspect and repair the parts of the system, including:

• Control valves
• Gauges
• Fittings and pipes
• Sprinkler heads
• Hangers
• Backflow prevention parts
• Drains
• Alarms
• Antifreeze solution
• Water pressure
  

Replacing Components
Have a sprinkler technician replace the gauges every five years and verify their calibration. Change out fast-response sprinkler heads every 20 years; standard sprinkler heads can go for 50 years. If your building has extremely high temperatures or is exposed to a harsh environment, replace your fire sprinklers every five years.
The National Fire Sprinkler Association has guidelines for fire sprinklers in commercial buildings.
If you go too long between sprinkler maintenance, your system may accidentally activate and flood your building. If this happens, talk to a water cleanup specialist in Burlington, MA, who can help with the cleanup.