Sprinkler Systems

Fire Suppression Sprinklers vs Sprinkler Systems: What’s the Difference? Fire suppression sprinklers and standard sprinkler systems can be very easily misleading. How? Very simple: they look like twins. Heads, locations… everything about them is similar. But their functions and even operating principles are absolutely different. Let’s get to know what is what before you decide to choose a water fire suppression system. But first of all, take a look at what types of sprinkler systems even exist. What Are Standard Sprinkler Systems? No doubt that the standard sprinkler fire suppression system is just a legend among water fire suppression system models. But even among the standard heads, there are significant differences. For example, fusible link sprinkler heads and glass bulb sprinklers are effective in their own way. This system is fairly common for residential areas. Why? There is only one pitfall: a water fire suppression system is not suitable for facilities with electronics or hazardous substances. Special facilities need special solutions, right? What Are Fire Suppression Sprinklers? Standard systems use water. At the same time, fire suppression sprinklers cannot always be classified as non water based fire suppression systems. Simply put, water is not the only filler. It can be foam, gas, fog, or even specialty chemicals. These fire suppression system sprinkler heads are activated centrally. In short, fire activates the whole system at once. These alternatives to fire sprinkler systems are often used: Non water based fire suppression systems extinguish flames without damaging expensive equipment or materials.  Key Functional Differences Let’s walk through the key differences between these two types of systems: Extinguishing method When someone talks about standard sprinklers, it’s always about water. Any sprinkler fire suppression system can use its own agent: gas, powder, or foam. Activation principle In a standard fire water protection system, only the sprinkler that “sees” the fire is activated. In the alternatives to fire sprinkler systems, flames trigger the whole mechanism. Area of application You usually need standard sprinklers for ordinary rooms (and, incidentally, they do a great job there!). Fire suppression sprinklers are for valuable or technically intensive spaces. Damage from extinguishing Water can damage property (obviously!). So, non water based fire suppression systems drastically reduce these risks. But enough of these descriptions! See and compare some real examples of our projects on our Instagram. See fire suppression system sprinkler heads in action! Regulatory & Safety Standards for Fire Suppression Sprinklers Both a sprinkler fire suppression system and a suppression system should comply with specific codes. For example, in the U.S., regulations vary depending on the type of facility. Agent matters as well. FirePro Tech and any other licensed contractor in CA must follow NFPA regulations. So, what exactly should we consider? To tell the truth, this list is incomplete. If you feel lost in these points and need some tips and even services, feel free to contact our experts via Facebook. Cost, Installation & Maintenance Comparison Fire suppression sprinklers are more expensive to install and maintain than conventional systems. Especially when it comes to gas solutions or complex fire water protection systems. But when you consider the long-term costs, these systems can be more cost-effective: Here is a brief comparison: Parameter Standard sprinklers Fire suppression sprinklers Cost of installation Low High Extinguishing agent Water Fog, powder, etc Damage to property after triggering Possible Minimal Suitable for server/archives No Yes Ease of maintenance Average Requires pros So, Do I Need Fire Suppression Sprinklers? Fire suppression systems sprinkler heads work well on sites where it is important not only to extinguish the fire but also to preserve valuable stuff. A standard fire water protection system is suitable for most residential and office buildings, especially if the risk of fire is relatively low. Don’t make your choice in a hurry. Think twice. Consider the type of premises, safety requirements, budget… Tell us what they are for your business? Any ideas are welcome at (818) 860-0166. Be sure: we will find the perfect fire sprinkler for you.

Getting in touch with fire safety is always bonded with fire protection systems. And since every building has its own character, there are different types of sprinkler systems. Depending on risks you might face in case of fire, these systems are designed to fit different needs. We share this article so you can plan your fire protection easily.   Types of Fire Sprinkler Systems: Key Differences Before talking about each system, let’s have a look at it shortly. Most commonly used different types of sprinkler systems are: Wet Pipe Systems Pipes always contain water and discharge immediately when triggered. Dry Pipe Systems Filled with compressed air or nitrogen; delay water release until needed. Pre-Action Systems  Require a two-step activation (e.g., heat and smoke detection). Deluge Systems  Simultaneously discharge water from all open heads. Foam-Water Systems This system uses foamed water to deal with chemical and flammable liquid fires. Water Mist Systems  Uses fine droplets to suppress fire with minimal water damage. It might be hard to choose a system from the first glance. Make this decision based on your property’s climate, usage, and fire hazard level. How Fire Sprinkler Systems Work Despite all differences that types of fire sprinkler system have, they share the same goal. They detect heat and suppress fire. So how fire sprinkler systems work exactly? It all starts with a sprinkler head which is heat-sensitive. Usually it’s a glass bulb or a fusible link. When the set temperature is reached, they break activating the system.  Once activated: Water comes only from those sprinkler heads which were exposed by the fire heat. And that’s how fire sprinkler systems work. Wet System Sprinkler A simple and trustful wet system is the most widely used among types of fire sprinkler system. These systems are constantly filled with water, ensuring immediate discharge when a fire is detected. Best wet system sprinkler is suited for: Advantages: Limitations: Wet VS Dry Sprinkler System Understanding the difference between a wet vs dry sprinkler system is vital, especially in varying climates. To help you navigate through these types of fire sprinkler system here is a small table: Feature Wet System Dry System Water in Pipes Yes No (air or nitrogen instead) Response Speed Immediate Slight delay (few seconds)    Climate Suitability Heated areas Cold/unheated areas Installation Cost Lower Slightly higher Maintenance Simple Requires more upkeep Key insight on wet vs dry sprinkler system:Use wet system sprinkler in temperature-controlled areas and dry systems in places like parking garages or warehouses where freezing may occur.  What Is a Dry Fire Sprinkler System A “dry” regarding fire protection sounds a little weird at first. So what is a dry fire sprinkler system? We have an answer! A dry fire sprinkler system is designed for environments where freezing is a concern. Instead of water, the pipes contain compressed air or nitrogen. When the sprinkler head is exposed to fire the pressured air escapes. That allows the valve to open so the water can flow in. Common uses: Why does it matter to understand what is a dry fire sprinkler system? The most important reason is no frozen pipes. This ensures fire protection even in extreme cold. How Does a Dry Sprinkler System Work If you want to learn how does a dry sprinkler system work here is a quick breakdown: Compared to a wet system, the water discharge starts a millisecond later then in a dry one. However, in properties with low temperatures it prevents water from freezing and rupture of the pipes. That’s how does a dry sprinkler system work. If you need one, learn about our fire sprinkler installation service. Pre-Action Sprinkler Systems for High-Risk Environments There is a great solution for high-risk environments—a pre-action system. The main point of it is that this system has a 2-stage fire detection. These are ideal for environments with sensitive objects like museum exhibits or sophisticated electronic equipment. At such places accidental discharge could cause major damage. Also you don’t have to worry about any break downs of this complicated system since we have comprehensive repair services. Two types: Advantages: Conclusion When you face so many different types of sprinkler systems, don’t panic. There is your system among them that will suit your property’s features and all safety requirements you have. Whether you have an office, a warehouse, a historical museum or a chemical lab, there are solutions for you. At FirePro Tech we will be happy to help you build your fire protection. We have trained a team that will help you with wet vs dry sprinkler system comparison or any other system. Simply call your trusted contractor in CA at (818) 860-0166 for superior pre-action fire sprinkler installation. Also follow us on Facebook and Instagram to be updated with the latest fashion in fire protection.