Key Differences Between Pendant and Concealed Sprinkler Heads
Making the decision to install a fire sprinkler system into your home or commercial property is the best decision for you and anyone else who occupies the building. They are incredibly effective and work to detect heat from a fire, extinguishing it efficiently. There are various sprinkler heads available, each of which has its own purposes. We discussed in our previous article the most common variations and where you are most likely to find them, but pendent and concealed sprinkler heads are the ones you’re most likely to notice.
No sprinkler head is more effective than the other in theory, but each one is more suited to a certain environment when compared to the others. A professional sprinkler installation company will be able to identify the best sprinkler heads for your property, as well as design the system based on your dimensions and water supply. Pendent and concealed sprinkler heads are the most recognisable, but what sets them apart from each other?
Where Do They Work Best?
Concealed fire sprinkler heads are preferred in domestic and residential properties due to their discreet nature. They come with a cover plate to hide them in the ceiling, leaving the surrounding decor undisturbed and creating a less visible appearance. Despite their concealment, they will still activate at the first detection of heat from a fire. The cover plate drops to the floor and the appropriate amount of water will be expelled to extinguish the blaze, keeping everyone safe and reducing fire and water damage significantly. Concealed sprinkler heads can also be found in hotels, offices and care homes. You can read more in our previous blog here.
Pendent sprinkler heads are similar to concealed ones, but the head of the sprinkler is visible. They work well in properties where concealment isn’t a necessity, such as in certain office spaces and other commercial spaces such as shopping centres and supermarkets. Like all reliable fire sprinklers, they activate quickly and will only operate in the near vicinity to the fire. As previously mentioned, a professional sprinkler installation company will ensure you have the best fire sprinkler heads installed into your property.
What are Their Main Qualities?
Pendent and concealed sprinkler heads are very similar. The concealed sprinkler head works on a two-stage process. When the heat from the fire reaches a certain level, the cover plate falls away which exposes the sprinkler head and the sprinkler deflector plate drops below the ceiling in preparation to the activation. The next stage comes into operation when the heat rises further and a bi-metal strip allows the sprinkler head to operate causing the fire to be extinguished very effectively. The fact that concealed sprinkler heads are hidden from view enables spaces to keep their decor without compromising safety. However, if you ever choose to decorate, you need to ensure that nothing hinders the cover plate from falling away.
Pendent sprinkler heads are much more visible, which can actually make those within your property feel safer, as they are fully aware that they will be protected in the event of a fire. They dispense water in a circular motion, covering as much ground as possible. Pendent sprinklers are common in factories where fire hazards are more common. They’re great for larger spaces, especially since this particular fire sprinkler system covers as much ground as possible.
How Do I Know Which Sprinkler Heads are Best for Me?
If you’re unsure as to which fire sprinkler heads are best for your property, then you need not worry. Professionals within the fire sprinkler field will already have a good idea concerning which heads to install to fit with your property and the fire sprinkler system being installed. If you’re thinking of installing sprinklers in your home, then you will probably be offered concealed sprinkler heads to keep the system more discreetly hidden.
If you’re considering installing sprinklers for your property, you can rest assured that you are making the best decision to protect your building and those within it. To find out more, or to receive a bespoke quote from our fire sprinkler professionals, please give us a call on 01892 680 090. Alternatively, you can fill out our online form here.
