Sprinkler Activation: Causes and a Plan for Action

11/30/2021 (Permalink)

According to AAA Fire Protection, 91% of sprinklers do activate when they are supposed to, approximately 9% of the time they are ineffective. Why? It’s a combination of things, including systems that have been turned off due to inactivity, conditions in the building or a lack of understanding the systems platforms.

Most Common Causes for Sprinkler System Failure or Malfunction:

1. Corrosion

Corrosion or damage to the pipes that send the water where it needs to go can impact the ability of the fire sprinkler system to deliver life-saving water when it is needed the most. The minerals and additives in water have a bad habit of eating away at pipes, causing leaks and a lack of pressure at a dangerous time. Regular maintenance reviews by your professional fire protection partner and rigorous testing are the best ways to ensure that your system is in full working order.

1. Freezing

Depending on where your business resides, freezing can be a big problem for sprinkler systems. They are often piped through industrial areas that may or may not have adequate insulation. Frozen sprinkler lines can lead to ice build ups. These build ups can expand within the pipes; causing cracks, pipe breaks and a lack of water pressure.

3. Overheating

Your office staff is unlikely to be thrilled if the air conditioner goes out, and they are suddenly drenched in water on one of the hottest days of the year! When you are defining your fire sprinkler tolerances, be sure to keep in mind the maximum internal temperature that is possible or probable before setting the “tolerances” for your fire protection system.

1. Poor Installation Or Damage

Poor installation practices and the lack of a structured review process together can make for an inexcusably poor fire sprinkler system. Working with a trusted sprinkler service provider can help to give you piece of mind that you need; knowing that you have been proactive in protecting both your employees and your investment. 

NFPA research states that the United States Fire Sprinklers Market is expected to grow from a $4.3 billion in 2019 to $7.2 billion in 2025. Fire protection systems are now mandated in all new commercial construction. In the event of a fire, properly working sprinkler systems can both protect your facility and save lives.

Whether it’s a working fire or malfunction, sprinkler systems can release anywhere from 8-24 gallons per minute, depending on predetermined settings and the cause of activation. When these systems go off, an immediate plan of action is needed to extract and dry out your facility.

As a 24 hour emergency Fire & Water clean-up and restoration company, SERVPRO of Piatt/DeWitt Counties will respond quickly.  Helping to minimize business interruption and the costs associated with secondary damage.

When your business needs us, trust the SERVPRO name. Trust the experience. But foremost, trust that we care about getting your business back up and running fast. SERVPRO cares, let us help you today!