A professionally installed commercial fire sprinkler system will work wonders to protect your business from the threat of a fire. But it’s important to be aware of maintenance mistakes that can result in malfunctioning equipment or increased risk factors. Avoid these pitfalls to extend the lifetime of your sprinklers and maximize their benefits:
1. Overlooking Your Equipment Between Inspections
Scheduling a professional fire sprinkler inspection at least once a year is vital—but it’s also the bare minimum. You also need to monitor the commercial fire sprinkler system on a regular basis, as issues can occur between inspections. Visually check the equipment each month for signs of corrosion or other damage. These routine checks will help you resolve problems that are otherwise easy to miss. You’ll save money on more extensive repairs and ensure the whole system remains functional for as long as possible.
2. Not Scheduling Necessary Leak Repairs
As with all plumbing systems, a commercial fire sprinkler system can develop leaks over time. But even small leaks could compromise the pressure in the lines, decreasing their efficacy in a fire. Therefore, it’s crucial to fix any leak as soon as you catch it. Be on the lookout for minor drips or moisture near the seals and control valves, as these can turn into more steady leaks. Schedule repairs as soon as you suspect a leak—swift action will restore the water flow and maintain optimal working order in the event of an emergency.
3. Not Testing the Alarms on a Regular Basis
A fire sprinkler system relies on communication with alarms and pull stations. Therefore, testing the alarm system is just as important as resolving fire sprinkler leaks. Consistent monitoring and maintenance will keep the equipment ready for immediate use, so test out all the alarms during monthly fire drills to ensure both your equipment and staff are prepared.
4. Allowing the Control Valves to Erode
A professional technician will look at the system’s control valves during an annual fire sprinkler inspection, but you should also inspect these components yourself on a regular basis. As soon as you see rust or other signs of corrosion, call a professional to replace the valves and make sure they can operate effectively without damage or obstructions.
5. Missing Important Water Pressure Changes
A monthly maintenance check will also help you detect water pressure issues. You can monitor water pressure by looking at the system’s valves. If those pressure levels seem lower than the manufacturer’s recommendation, it’s time to schedule a fire sprinkler inspection—this drop in pressure could be the result of a plumbing leak, burst, or block.
6. Failing to Protect the Sprinkler Heads
Damage to the sprinkler heads can occur often and increase a business’s overhead costs. Limit these issues and maximize the fire sprinkler’s value by installing sprinkler head guards. These will lower the risk of any accidental impact damage.
7. Putting Off Fire Sprinkler System Flushes
Prevent corrosion or other forms of damage by flushing the commercial fire sprinkler system every 12 months. This will eliminate debris or sediment buildup in the lines, while minimizing the risk of corrosion and other issues that compromise our sprinklers’ function.
8. Delaying an Annual Fire Sprinkler Inspection
Not only are regular fire sprinkler inspections required for legal code compliance—they will also maintain the equipment’s warranty protection and operating condition. If a fire occurs, you won’t need to stress about equipment failures or inadequate responses due to plumbing issues, faulty alarms, or valve corrosion. Instead, you’ll have the peace of mind that comes with knowing your commercial fire sprinkler system works as it should.
Trust the Pros With Your Commercial Fire Sprinkler System
A&A Fire Protection offers best-in-class fire sprinkler system installation, maintenance, and repairs. Our team of experts can install and maintain a customized system to meet your unique business needs—plus, our maintenance and inspection services will keep the entire system functional and compliant. Contact us for more information today.
