How to Protect Your Fire Sprinkler System
Although a high-quality sprinkler system is a common sight in commercial properties such as hotels and offices, they aren’t as popular of a choice in domestic and residential dwellings. Although smoke alarms are an essential component of fire safety, residential fire sprinklers are the most effective method of controlling and extinguishing fires. They can save lives and reduce damage caused to property. However, if they’re not cared for properly, they won’t be as effective as they can be. With proper sprinkler system installation and care, your system will last for years to come.
An efficient water sprinkler system will activate at the first sign of heat from a fire, and will only expel water from the sprinkler heads in the nearest vicinity. Residential sprinkler systems can not only keep inhabitants safe, but they will save any sentimental items from being destroyed, with so many more benefits that can help your home. If you’re considering installing a residential fire sprinkler system, here are some tips for keeping them safe and effective.
How to ‘Winterise’ Your Sprinkler System
When the winter months roll in, there is always the possibility of our water pipes getting frozen. This can cause damage to any system, including your sprinkler system tank, valves and pipes. There is more chance of this happening in buildings that close for long periods of time with no heat and sprinklers that are located near doors. It is rare for a sprinkler system to freeze in a home, but it can still occur. In order to keep your sprinkler system working optimally, you should have it checked annually by a relevant third party. You can read more in our previous article here.
By planning ahead for the winter months, especially if you’re planning to leave your home for a while, you can prevent your system from freezing up. Wet pipe systems can freeze easily due to water always being present in the pipes; if you have one of these systems installed, be careful if your property is due to reach below-freezing temperatures. All components of the system should be checked to ensure it is working correctly. Heaters can also be installed into the tanks, pumps and valves.
Be Careful When Decorating
In domestic properties, sprinkler heads are normally covered by a protective plate which will drop away when the sprinkler system is activated. This helps them blend into the decor without sticking out of place. Once the system is installed, you may consider decorating a few years down the line. No matter whether you decorate your home yourself or you get qualified decorators in, you should always be mindful of your sprinkler system installation.
If you choose to paint your ceiling, any paint that gets onto the cover plate could seal it to the ceiling. This can prevent it from dropping away, decreasing the effectiveness of your system. High-quality sprinklers can activate and perform an optimal job for years to come, but if they are hindered in any way, they won’t work. Also, any decorative pieces and furniture that are high reaching could also hinder your system.
Protecting Sprinkler Heads from Human Error
More often than not, a sprinkler system may encounter a fault because of unintentional human error. This can lead to sprinklers not activating, or expelling too much water which leads to costly water damage. This can even hinder a business as they will need to be fixed. One of the best ways to prevent sprinkler damage is to place them at a reasonable height so they cannot be tampered with as easily. Cover plates are also recommended for residential properties to prevent sprinkler head damage.
No sprinkler system is completely “vandal-proof,” but there are steps you can take to keep your sprinkler system as protected as possible. Here at RAD Fire Sprinklers, we have years of experience in sprinkler system installation in the Southeast, providing services to domestic and commercial properties alike. To find out more, or to receive a bespoke quote, please give us a call on 01892 680 090. Alternatively, you can fill out our online form here.
read another blog here.
