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Home fires are a real danger, but with the help of a fire sprinkler system, you can significantly reduce your risk. We want to help you keep your family safe by providing some important information about fire sprinkler systems.

First, we will answer some common questions about fire sprinkler systems, including:

• Does every home have a fire sprinkler system?
• When should you hire a professional to inspect or repair your system?
• Finally, what are the benefits of having a fire sprinkler system in your home?

In addition to these questions, we will discuss tips on maintaining your fire sprinkler system and when it’s time to call in the professionals!

What is a Fire Sprinkler System?

Fire sprinkler systems are an integral part of any home. They are often required in new homes and can help save lives and property in a fire. But, like any other system in your home, homeowners must adequately maintain them to function correctly when needed. Fire sprinkler systems are a network of pipes supplying water to sprinklers throughout your home. These sprinklers are activated by heat and will spray water on the fire.

How Does a Fire Sprinkler System Work?

As we mentioned, fire sprinkler systems work by detecting the change in heat, not by detecting the level of smoke in the area. Usually, the sprinkler closest to the fire will detect the difference in the air temperature. It usually takes a temperature between 135 to 165 degrees Fahrenheit to activate a sprinkler. Sprinkler nozzles usually have a glass bulb filled with a special liquid that expands in the presence of heat. Once the liquid expands far enough, it shatters the glass and triggers the valve head to open. Water flows through the nozzle and out onto the fire as the valve opens. The amount of moisture released is determined by the type and size of the fire sprinkler system. The lines that feed the fire sprinkler system are pressurized to bombard the flames with as much water as possible in the shortest amount of time.

Do All Homes Have Fire Sprinkler Systems?

No, not all homes have fire sprinkler systems. However, they are becoming more and more common. In addition, many states and localities have adopted laws that require new homes to be built with fire sprinkler systems. If you’re unsure if your home has a fire sprinkler system, the best way to find out is to contact your local fire department or building code enforcement office. Either way, installing a fire sprinkler system is an excellent way to protect your investment in your home and your family’s well-being.

Why Is it a Good Idea to Have A Fire Sprinkler?

There are many benefits to having a fire sprinkler system in your home. Fire sprinklers can help contain and extinguish fires and reduce damage to your home and possessions. They can also give you and your family valuable time to escape the fire. They can keep the fire at bay and keep you from losing your home in the aftermath.

How You Should Maintain Your Fire Sprinkler System

Fire sprinkler systems have an essential job, but they aren’t used much. In most homes, they only see any use during an annual test. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), there are certain things any homeowner should and needs to do to maintain their system. However, there are a few things you can do to make sure your fire sprinkler system is always in good working order:

• Test the flow and pressure of the water
• Test the valves
• Conduct an internal piping assessment
• Conduct a risk assessment
• Flush the system

Homeowners should perform many other tips to determine the condition of their fire sprinkler system. Many of these tips are items that homeowners should know; keeping track of these reminders will keep your system working as it should:

• Know the location of your control valve and keep it open at all times
• Replace any sprinkler heads that have become damaged
• Don’t hang anything from the sprinklers
• Don’t paint or obstruct the sprinklers
• Inspect valves, pumps, and tanks monthly
• Test water flow devices every six months
• Visually inspect the sprinklers and all other times regularly
• If you sell the home, perform an inspection

Typically, the installer will provide instructions for inspecting, testing, and maintaining the system. Ensure that you keep this document in a safe place; it is an invaluable tool. Unfortunately, some of these instructions may seem confusing or hard to understand; it’s not on purpose, but usually, professionals are responsible for providing complete inspection services for fire sprinkler systems.  Because of this, these instructions may be challenging to follow because an experienced and knowledgeable inspector is handling everything.

Potential Problems That Might Arise

As we all know, just because we maintain something doesn’t mean that it will never have any problems. Fire sprinkler systems are no different, and there are a few potential issues that might arise:

These problems contribute to common issues like pressure losses, leaks, and lower water volume for controlling fires. These issues are not good, but they can seriously threaten your fire sprinkler system. You can only confirm the status of your sprinkler system with a thorough inspection. At the same time, homeowners can usually handle the basics; a professional is needed for the deeper assessments. Professionals can also identify potential problems that might not be apparent to the untrained eye.

When Should You Have Your Fire Sprinkler System Inspected By a Professional?

Being a responsible homeowner means admitting when a problem is out of your depth. Most of the time, fire sprinkler systems are one of those things. Unfortunately, many people try to take on projects that they’re not qualified for,  and this often leads to more problems and an increased chance of injury.  Fire sprinkler systems should be inspected by a professional every year.

FirePro Tech is a company that specializes in installing and maintaining fire sprinkler systems. They also design and inspect commercial and residential fire sprinkler systems. FirePro Tech is located in the heart of the Burbank area and is dedicated to providing the best possible service to its customers. If you have questions about your fire sprinkler system or would like to schedule an inspection, don’t hesitate to contact FirePro Tech. If needed, they offer 24/7 emergency fire protection services.