As Temperatures Plummet, NFSA Provides Tips to Protect Fire Sprinkler Systems from Freezing

The National Fire Sprinkler Association (NFSA), the longest-tenured fire sprinkler advocacy organization in the U.S., reminds homeowners and building owners that fire sprinkler systems are the only proactive form of fire protection, mitigating the risk to individuals affected by fire, including both occupants of the home or building and responding firefighters. Proper maintenance is required to ensure that this life saving system performs when a fire strikes. With temperatures plummeting over the last few days it is critical to protect fire sprinkler system piping from freezing.

Patterson, N.Y. (PRWEB) January 27, 2013

Water leaks caused by freezing and bursting pipes can damage buildings and contents and interrupt your business. NFSA recommends an effective freeze-up prevention program that includes the following elements:

1. Conducting a physical inspection of the facility, looking for freeze-up hazards.

2. Inspection, and maintenance of the fire sprinkler system including:

3. Any freeze prevention program should also include annual surveys of buildings and equipment to find insulation and heat tracing deficiencies and to check for unwanted outside air; look for vents and openings in windows, walls, roofs, or floors.

4. Low point drains (drum drips) on dry-pipe sprinkler systems should be emptied to remove water that may be present from condensation or accidental trips.

5. All buildings should provide adequate heat (40F) for dry-pipe valve rooms, pump rooms, and water tanks.

6. Building owners should appoint individuals to monitor weather reports. Establish guidelines to alert management and maintenance personnel and again, maintain indoor temperatures at a minimum of 40F.

7. It is important to provide adequate heating throughout areas susceptible to freezing, such as in stairwells, above dropped ceilings, and attic spaces.

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As Temperatures Plummet, NFSA Provides Tips to Protect Fire Sprinkler Systems from Freezing