Understanding Fire Sprinklers: How They Work and Why They're Important

5/10/2023 (Permalink)

As a property owner, it's important to understand the importance of fire sprinklers and how they work to protect your building and its occupants in case of a fire emergency. In this blog, we'll discuss the basics of fire sprinklers and why they're so crucial for fire safety.

How do fire sprinklers work?

Fire sprinklers are a key component of a building's fire suppression system. They work by releasing water when the temperature in the room reaches a certain level, usually around 155-165 degrees Fahrenheit. When the sprinkler head reaches this temperature, a small glass bulb within the sprinkler head breaks, allowing water to flow out and douse the flames.

Contrary to popular belief, fire sprinklers do not all activate at once, only the sprinkler head closest to the fire will be triggered. This means that a small fire can be extinguished quickly, preventing it from becoming a larger, more dangerous blaze.

Why are fire sprinklers important?

The main goal of a fire sprinkler system is to prevent the spread of fire, which can save lives and property. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), buildings with fire sprinkler systems experience an average of 60% fewer deaths and 70% fewer property losses than buildings without them. This highlights the importance of having a well-maintained fire sprinkler system in your building.

Another key benefit of fire sprinklers is that they can help to reduce the amount of water used by firefighters in the event of a fire. Since the sprinklers start working right away, firefighters may not need to use as much water to extinguish the fire. This can prevent water damage to your property and reduce the overall cost of repairs.

Maintaining Your Fire Sprinklers

To ensure that your fire sprinkler system is functioning properly, it's important to have it inspected and tested regularly. NFPA recommends that you have your system inspected by a licensed professional at least once a year.

During the inspection, the technician will check the water supply, the sprinkler heads, and the control valves to make sure that everything is in good working order. Any issues should be addressed immediately to prevent any potential problems during an emergency.

Fire sprinklers are an important part of any building's fire safety plan. They work by quickly extinguishing small fires, preventing them from spreading and causing more damage. They can also reduce the risk of injuries and fatalities during a fire. As a property owner, it's important to maintain your fire sprinkler system and have it inspected regularly to ensure that it's functioning properly. By doing so, you can help to keep your building and its occupants safe in the event of a fire emergency.