Lack of adequate maintenance can potentially be one of many causes for fire sprinkler system failures. To ensure reliability, fire sprinkler systems must be thoroughly inspected, tested, and maintained (ITM) in accordance with NFPA 25, the standard governing the inspection, testing, and maintenance of water-based fire protection systems. Systems exposed to cold temperatures are particularly at risk. In this blog, we will outline steps to effectively winterize a fire sprinkler system. If you need services today, give Maverick Fire & Safety a call at (832)653-2598.
During colder months, these systems are more prone to catastrophic failures. Frozen sprinkler pipes are one of the most frequent service issues reported during winter. It is essential to maintain a minimum temperature of 40 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent the sprinkler pipes from freezing and being damaged.
Certain areas that might be overlooked during warmer months can pose problems in winter. These include entryways , stairwells, large unoccupied spaces, skylights, and poorly insulated areas.
For sprinklered areas where maintaining a temperature of 40 degrees Fahrenheit or higher is not feasible, dry pipe or antifreeze systems are typically used. These systems may require more comprehensive assessments and ongoing maintenance to prevent freezing, but we can have a fire safety contractor sent to your location for installation, maintenance, or a service call at (832)653-2598.
Before the onset of winter temperatures, antifreeze systems should be tested to ensure that the antifreeze solution will function properly against the anticipated low temperatures. If the solution does not provide adequate protection, it must be drained and replaced with a new antifreeze solution that complies with NFPA 25, section 5.3.4.
It is crucial to maintain wet portions of the dry pipe valve at a minimum of 40 degrees Fahrenheit. The enclosure should be inspected daily to confirm that the minimum temperature is being sustained, and weekly if a low-temperature alarm is installed in the room. Additionally, the low point and auxiliary drains must be emptied after each operation of the system, before freezing weather sets in, and as necessary thereafter.
The frequency with which these drains should be operated throughout the cold season will depend on the amount of condensation present. This could necessitate daily, weekly, or monthly maintenance, depending on the specific system and building conditions which our team of Professional Fire Contractors can facilitate (832)653-2598.
Steps to winterize a fire sprinkler system
- Close the upper valve.
- Open the lower valve and drain the accumulated water.
- Close the lower valve, open the upper valve, and allow for additional water accumulation.
- Repeat this procedure until water ceases to Discharge.
- Replace plug or nipple and cap in lower valve.
Cold weather causes issues in all industries, in the fire protection industry it can wreak havoc. When not properly maintained, fire protection systems can freeze, burst, and fail to function entirely if needed. It is extremely important to ensure that these systems are properly maintained to ensure they are ready to operate in the event of an emergency. NFPA
If you are looking to make your business or property fire safe throughout the year, trust Maverick Fire and Safety. We have a collective 2.5 decades worth of experience designing, installing, inspecting, and repairing residential and commercial fire protection systems. We serve clients all throughout Texas, if you are interested in finding out more about our services and protecting your home or business, give us a call today at (832)653-2598.
