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?

• Easy to install
• Affordable (relatively!)
• Effective in extinguishing fires caused by paper and textile materials

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:

• In restaurant kitchens
• In server rooms
• In industrial plants
• In museums and archives

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?

• Head spacing
• Water or gas pressure
• Response time
• Component certification

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:

• Less damage during extinguishing
• Faster activation
• Increased safety for personnel and machinery

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.