Why install a fire sprinkler system?
Fires are more common than most people realise, and it usually takes very little to start a serious one. Indeed, all it takes is some faulty...
Fire sprinkler systems in houses are often thought of as excessive, but they can significantly minimise the consequences of fire in your home. Not only will they reduce damage to the property and your belongings, but they will also minimise the financial and emotional stress that can come with it. However, the reduction of damage will depend on you having the right type of fire sprinkler system.
The four types are:
- Wet Pipe Fire Sprinkler Systems
- Dry Pipe Fire Sprinkler Systems
- Pre-Action Fire Sprinkler Systems
- Deluge Fire Sprinkler Systems
Each fire sprinkler system is designed for specific environments and hazards. So whether you are a homeowner of a single property or the landlord or property manager of a building of flats, there is a right and a wrong solution.
At South Coast Fire Sprinklers, we are a highly experienced team that works with architects, homeowners, developers, and builders across the South to install fire sprinkler systems to protect all types of buildings from the devastating impact of fires.
In this blog, we share the four main types of sprinkler systems and when they are typically used.
1. Wet Pipe Fire Sprinkler Systems
This type of fire sprinkler system refers to the fact that water is kept in the pipes.
As the water is stored in the pipes, it is released immediately once the heat trigger on the sprinkler heads has been activated.
This system is best suited for residential properties, office buildings, and commercial spaces with consistent temperatures across the building.
Benefits of this system include:
- Simple design
- Low maintenance
- Fast response time
- Sprinklers release targeted spray as those in the area of the fire are activated
2. Dry Pipe Fire Sprinkler System
The next type of fire sprinkler system is a dry pipe system.
These differ from the wet pipe system because the pipes aren’t filled with water. Instead, they release a gas, such as oxygen or nitrogen, before the water runs through the pipes.
You are likely to install a dry pipe system in buildings that aren’t heated, such as warehouses, car parks, and areas that are at risk of freezing temperatures. This is because it prevents water in the pipes from freezing and the system not working properly.
Key advantages of the system include:
- Prevents water from freezing in pipes
- Reduces the risk of damage in cold environments
- Only sprinklers in the area of the fire are activated
3. Pre-Action Fire Sprinkler Systems
The pre-action fire sprinkler systems have a two-stage response. They first detect the fire with a smoke or heat alarm. This then triggers the water to be released and sprayed where the fire is.
This type of fire sprinkler system is typically used in data centres, museums, libraries, and areas housing valuable or water-sensitive equipment.
The two-stage activation ensures that the water is released when necessary.
The benefits of this system include:
- Sprinklers go off when necessary
- Minimises accidental water damage
- Only the sprinklers exposed to heat or smoke activate
4. Deluge Fire Sprinkler Systems
The final type of fire sprinkler system works slightly differently from the above types because the whole system is activated at the same time.
The sprinklers release water simultaneously, rapidly releasing large amounts across the building.
Usually, these systems are fitted in high-risk areas such as industrial facilities, chemical plants, and aircraft hangars.
Key benefits include:
- Provides instant fire suppression in areas with flammable materials or extreme fire hazards
- Fast response to reduce the impact of the fire
Choosing the Right Fire Sprinkler System
Choosing the right type of fire sprinkler system is vital for the best protection in your residential property. Not only will it keep you safe, but it will also make sure your belongings are safe.
The chances are you won’t need a deluge system as these are used in commercial spaces more often than not.
So, how do you work out which of the other types of systems you should install?
Wet pipe systems offer an immediate release of water, making it a quick response, so are often used in homes. So, this is most likely the best solution for you.
Dry systems are better for areas prone to freezing but could be used in your home or a certain area of the home, such as a garage. These aren’t common in homes because of the cost and complexity of installation.
Similarly, pre-action fire sprinkler systems can be used in homes but often aren’t because their installation is costly and complex. Plus, they don’t offer the same response time, which could mean your property is exposed to the fire longer, so there is more damage.
What should you consider when choosing the right type of fire sprinkler system?
- Building type
- Temperature control
- Fire risks
- Valuable items
Get The Right Type Of Fire Sprinkler System With Us
At South Coast Fire Sprinklers, we are experts in residential fire sprinkler systems.
Over our years in the industry, we have worked alongside architects, homeowners, developers, and builders across the South to design, supply and install effective systems. In doing this, our accredited team has worked in a range of buildings and built expertise in constructing systems suitable for high-rise buildings, apartments, housing associations, care homes, local authorities and private homeowners.
At the heart of everything we do is quality workmanship and excellent customer service, so you can be sure that we will take the time to understand your property and the needs of your project before jumping into work.
We also offer a maintenance and repair service, so if you choose us to help you fit the perfect system in place, you can rely on us going forward to ensure the system functions as it should for years to come.
Discuss which type of fire sprinkler system is best for your property with our team today. Call us on 01202 731111 or complete our online contact form to request a callback.
