Walking into a building, people rarely notice the sprinkler system that’s installed for fire safety. Fire sprinkler systems are a regular part of a safe building; people simply assume they’re safe and don’t look into the rest—but for building owners and managers, the sprinkler safety system is an integral part of a building’s safety. Learn more about the different types of fire sprinkler systems.
Wet Pipe System
A wet pipe sprinkler system is the most common fire sprinkler system available. It’s most often installed in residential and commercial buildings. This system works by activating when heat is sensed by sprinkler heads. This works to release pressurized water stored in the pipes.
In a wet pipe system, each sprinkler head activates independently so there is less water loss and water damage in the case of a false alarm. These systems are affordable, functional, and perfect for buildings looking for a low-maintenance fire safety system.
Pre-Action System
A pre-action system is a type of dry pipe system that needs a two-step activation. This type of system works by detecting smoke or heat to open the pre-action valve. The valve allows water to flow into the pipes. Sprinkler heads are activated individually over fire to release water.
Two step systems are perfect for places where accidental discharge could create serious damage. Pre-action systems are best for:
- Museums
- Art galleries
- Libraries
- Data Centers
Dry Pipe System
A dry pipe system operates without water stored in the pipes. The pipes are instead filled with pressurized air or nitrogen, which are released in the event of a fire. Fire activates the valves in the sprinkler head and then the pipes fill with water.
This system is more complex and costs more to install than a wet pipe system but is also the most ideal one for colder climates since there’s less risk for frozen pipes.
Deluge System
Deluge systems are another type of dry pipe system. What makes a deluge system unique is that the sprinkler heads are permanently open. They’re unable to sense heat or smoke so instead they require an external heat or smoke sensor. When the sensor detects heat or smoke, it then communicates to the sprinkler heads and all of the sprinkler heads release water. This is the ideal system for industrial building with flammable items that would, if ablaze, cause fire to spread rapidly.
There are more systems than this, but from all of the different types of fire sprinkler systems, these are the most common. Installation of any type of fire sprinkler system requires the consultation of expert water main and sewer contractors. Contact Harris Main Water and Sewer Contractors today for more information on our fire sprinkler installation in NYC and surrounding areas.
