Why Should I Get a FloWatch Fire Sprinkler Monitoring System?
During the servicing process of fire sprinkler systems throughout the UK, there has been a concerning rise in the number of in-line isolation valves found to be turned off. Currently, all CAT2 systems upward according to British Standards 9251-21 states that all valves that control the flow of water should be “electronically monitored for the open position.” This is where FloWatch comes in…
In order to keep up with the standards laid out for sprinklers, we here at RAD Fire Sprinklers are encouraging all of our clients to invest in a Flowatch system in order to keep their sprinkler system working optimally between services. Having valves open at all times can keep the water flowing and dispense water accurately should a fire break out. But what is FloWatch, and how does it work?
What Is A FloWatch Monitoring System?
FloWatch alarm and monitoring systems are fully compliant with BS9251-21 and work to ensure all electronic valves are maintained open at all times. Closed valves prevent the flow of water from being delivered to a sprinkler head, hindering their ability to extinguish a fire. The main functions they monitor include the isolation valves, where it will sound an alarm if it is moved out of the fully open position, and the flow switches.
The FloWatch system has plenty of extra features to ensure you have the best protection and fire sprinkler monitoring to keep everyone in your property safe. The system comes with a 24-hour backup battery, and it can even monitor tank levels and pump fault monitoring. The audible alarm can alert you to any faults present, allowing you to reset the issue and keep water flowing to the necessary places. There are also various expansion packs available, depending on the number of flow switches and monitored isolation valves.
Why is it Important?
The BS9251 updated its policies in 2021 and was revised to state that sprinkler systems need to be monitored so that valves were in the open position at all times. The standards also highlight that an alarm should sound when water levels get low, allowing you time to resolve the problem and keep everyone in your property safe. BS9251-21 now states that monitoring has been introduced for CAT 2 systems and over as a requirement in order to monitor the most critical functions of the system at all times. This leads to a far more robust system because it is being monitored constantly.
FloWatch is fully compliant with BS9251, keeping you and everyone in your property safe. Fully operational fire sprinkler systems and water mist systems can extinguish fires at the source, saving your home from extensive water and fire damage. All fire sprinkler systems need to follow certain regulations, no matter the building they’re installed into and the type of system they are. To find out more about the different regulations, please visit us here.
How We Can Help
Here at RAD Fire Sprinklers, we have years of experience in installing high-quality fire sprinkler and water mist systems to control, suppress and extinguish fires at the source. We always recommend that your sprinkler systems are regulated and checked on an annual basis, ensuring full compliance and safety within your property. We also highlight the importance of fire sprinkler monitoring and recommend FloWatch to all of our clients.
To find out more about installing a fire sprinkler system in your property, or to receive a quote, please give us a call on 01892 680 090. Alternatively, you can fill out our online form.
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