A 5 year inspection fire sprinkler procedure is a thorough check of the entire fire sprinkler system, which, as you may have guessed, is performed once every 5 years.
This sprinkler system testing frequency helps to identify hidden problems, such as rust inside pipes or stuck valves. These are easier to spot in the long term than during annual fire inspections. The main guideline for this is NFPA 25, which is the official safety standard.
What Happens at an Annual Sprinkler Inspection?
Annual fire inspections are like getting your car checked out every year. Here’s what they do:
- See if the sprinklers are bent;
- Check if they’re covered in dust;
- Make sure that everything is working;
- Look for leaks and other visible problems.
But this is not a really deep inspection. For example, it does not show what is happening inside the pipes. That’s why 5 year sprinkler inspection services are an absolute must.
What Happens During a 5 Year Inspection Fire Sprinkler Really Needs
A 5-year sprinkler inspection helps to check a system completely. Engineers do their best to make sure that everything inside is working properly:
- 100% visual inspection of all exposed and accessible fire sprinkler heads
- Visual inspection of system gauges
- Hydraulic nameplates
- System pipe hangers and seismic bracing
- System pipe and fittings
- Sprinkler heads, spare sprinklers and head wrench
- Fire department connections system flush
- Pressure regulating devices
- Control valve position
- Alarm valves exterior only
- Post indicator valves
- Submit inspection report as record of inspection
So, how often should fire sprinklers be inspected? FirePro Tech’s answer here is the following: annually is for sure, as well as once every 5 years.
The Codes Behind: 5 Year Inspection Fire Sprinkler Rules
Ask any contractor if they comply with NFPA 25 regulations. The answer should be yes; otherwise, something is really off. These regulations apply throughout CA and the United States. So, save this checklist of steps that you should take during 5 year sprinkler inspection according to NFPA 25:
Gauge Inspection
Techs should check the pressure gauges. If they are not working properly, it’s a sign to replace them.
System Flow Test
This test checks whether water flows properly through the pipes, especially on upper floors.
Standpipe Hydrostatic Test
To perform this test, you will need pressurized water. You should run this water through the pipes to check for microcracks.
Check Valve Inspection
Typically, check valves that direct water in pipes of any fire sprinkler system wear out heavily over five years. Technicians disassemble and clean them.
Internal Inspection of Piping
During this part techs look inside the pipes. There may be rust, scale, or debris that obstructs the water flow.
Preparing for Annual and 5 Year Inspection Fire Sprinkler Events
Now that you know how often a fire sprinkler system should be inspected, you can prepare for it. Preparing for an annual inspection is simple: you just need to provide access to the sprinklers and equipment.
However, the 5 year sprinkler inspection requires a bit more:
- notify residents or tenants;
- agree on a time for the inspection;
- open technical rooms.
If you are unsure how often fire sprinklers should be inspected or what the sprinkler system inspection cost is, it’s okay. Simply contact our FirePro Tech team to book a testing that complies with all the necessary codes.
What Is the 5 Year Inspection Fire Sprinkler Procedure?
A 5-year sprinkler inspection is a mandatory comprehensive inspection of the entire system. Specialists open parts of the system, clean pipes, and test valves. They record everything they find and repair. This process is more thorough than annual fire inspections. It allows you to find problems that are difficult to identify in the short term—leaks, for example. Read about Top Causes of Fire Sprinkler Leaks to be prepared for everything in advance.
But what about money? Well, here’s what defines the sprinkler system inspection cost:
- the size of the building;
- the complexity of the system;
- whether your system needs new parts.
Just call us to find out the sprinkler system inspection cost for your specific case.
Will This Inspection Affect The Building Tenants?
Sometimes during an inspection, the system needs to be temporarily shut down. This means that the building will be without automatic fire suppression for a while. But a good company always warns residents in advance and does everything quickly and carefully.
Sprinkler system testing frequency (especially in the case of 5 year inspection fire sprinkler events) allows you to perform all the necessary checks with almost no disruption to people.
What Are the Specific NFPA Requirements?
NFPA 25 strictly regulates the 5-year sprinkler inspection. And this is not just a formality. It’s a matter of safety and legal reputation. So, the list of requirements looks like this:
- Inspection of pipes from the inside;
- Disassembly and testing of check valves;
- Checking and replacing pressure gauges;
- Flow test of risers;
- Detailed documentation.
Such an inspection is necessary because, unlike suppression systems (e.g., gas), sprinklers use water. That’s the reason why they are more susceptible to corrosion and leaks. If you are unsure which system you have installed—sprinkler or suppression—read the article What’s the Difference Between Fire Sprinkler and Fire Suppression Systems?
Why We Are The Contractor You Need?
FirePro Tech does everything professionally:
- Calculates inspection costs in advance;
- Knows exactly how often fire sprinklers should be inspected;
- Strictly follows sprinkler system testing frequency;
Our best licensed C-16 technicians and an honest approach are our super strengths. We love what we do, and we value discipline and compliance with standards. Our team will think about everything for you! Just save our number (818) 860-0166 to experience your high-quality inspection!
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