technician performing 5 year fire sprinkler inspection

Oftentimes, emergency sprinkler systems are seen as smoke alarms. We see them planted on the wall and think, “They’re doing their job.” We never bother to question their reliability.  We assume everything about them is running at full speed.

Sadly, this way of thinking has resulted in countless dollars’ worth of fire damage. The truth is fire sprinklers need upkeep.

I know what you’re thinking, “How do I know my emergency sprinkler system will work when needed?” Great question, keep reading for the answer…

HOW TO MAINTAIN EMERGENCY SPRINKLER SYSTEMS

1. Fire Sprinkler Inspections

Inspections are a must for emergency sprinkler systems. But having you do the inspection is a wrong move. If you broke your leg, you wouldn’t operate on it, would you?  Of course, you wouldn’t. You need a professional. Someone familiar with your state laws and regulations. An expert who knows the ins and outs of emergency sprinkler systems that everyday people won’t know to look for.

2. Test the Fire Sprinkler

Tests are not just a way to make your insurance company and fire marshal happy. These laws for inspection and testing which were set forth by your local fire department and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) exist to ensure proper testing and maintenance will keep your fire sprinkler system in working order.  By testing, you will know that day whether your emergency sprinkler system is ready should an emergency ever happen.

3. Create an Inspection Schedule

The industry standard is to have a quarterly inspection, annual inspection, and 5-year test.

These milestones are essential to determine if your emergency sprinkler system is getting the proper water pressure, whether or not someone has tampered with a valve and maybe closed the water supply to your building, or if you have a leaking or damaged sprinkler pipe or head. Keeping a calendar set will ensure your safety.

When To Call A Professional Fire Sprinkler Technician 

A fire can start when you least expect it. It can be the cause of spilled grease in the kitchen, a left-out cigarette, bad electrical wiring, and plenty more unforeseen dangers. The fact that you’ve gone out of your way to install an emergency sprinkler system is great. It means you realize the dangers ahead of you. Now, you need to go one step further and make sure these fire sprinklers actually work.

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