How Sprinkler Systems Work
Sprinkler systems save lives, businesses, and homes. Therefore knowing how they work is critical. This is because if they are not working to their full potential, you would not be able to detect this until they are required in an emergency. The most crucial benefit of these systems is that they increase people’s chances of escaping a burning building. These systems offer protection against fire damage. This can also save money by lessening the severity and damage of a fire. However, how do they operate and who do they help?
Who are Sprinkler Systems Beneficial For?
In short, everybody. However, there are many organisations and properties that could especially benefit from sprinkler systems. Such as:
- Schools
- Care homes
- Hospitals
- Hotels and Hostels
- Large warehouses
- Homes of vulnerable people
- Deep surface structures such as basements
How Do Sprinkler Systems Work?
A fire sprinkler system is a system of pipes receiving water pressure from a fire pump, tank, or water main. The pipework in the areas that need to be protected has fire sprinkler heads connected to it. However, despite what is depicted in movies and television adverts, fire sprinklers are NOT activated by smoke, and they DO NOT all go off at the same time. That is a myth.
Fire sprinklers only activate at the sprinkler head closest to the fire because they are heat activated. One sprinkler head activation is sufficient to put out a fire in 98% of cases. When the necessary temperature is reached in the event of a severe and quickly spreading fire, the next nearby sprinkler head will activate.
The smoke from a fire will typically activate a smoke detector, alerting any occupants to the danger. Depending on where the smoke detector is located, this could take some time, and in the meantime, the fire is spreading. The air directly above a fire heats up as a result of the fire. This heated air is forced laterally across the ceiling as it ascends to the top. The sprinkler head is activated when this hot air touches it. The required temperature varies based on the sprinkler head type installed but is typically between 68 and 74 degrees Celsius.
RAD Fire Sprinklers
Our home fire sprinkler systems are installed in compliance with all applicable laws, including BS9251, and according to industry standards. Home fire sprinklers have been installed by the professionals at RAD Fire Sprinklers since 2001. We have acquired and honed all the skills required to guarantee a proficient installation. For more information, or to receive a quote, fill in our form here. Or, give us a call on 01892 680 090.
Follow us on Twitter to stay up to date with everything we do on Twitter!
