How Do Fire Sprinkler Systems Work?
Fire sprinkler systems have been in use for more than 100 years. EA-RS will answer the burning question, ‘how do they work?’
The importance of these devices cannot be overstated. In a commercial property, they could prevent employees and property from suffering irreparable harm.
Here we look at how they function, what they do, and why you need a properly installed system in your business.
EARS can install a bespoke sprinkler system for you
Fire Detection and Alarm Systems
The first thing to note about fire sprinklers is that they are part of a very complex system. They rely on several other processes working correctly for them to function. Of these, fire detection and alarm systems are among the most vital.
The detection unit is there to identify whether or not a fire has broken out. The most common form is the smoke detector, which triggers when fumes rise to meet the device. However, specific models work by detecting heat and are set off once a certain degree threshold s reached.
The alarm component’s job is to warn anybody on the premises that a fire has a broken out. An effective fire alarm system will include both audio and visual cues to alert those nearby. Flashing lights and loud sounds are the typical methods, and while they can be abrasive, they are crucial.
Triggering the Sprinkler
Smoke detectors do not generally trigger sprinkler systems. Instead, they will monitor changes in heat readings to inform their action.
The reason for this is you can get smoke without a fire. For example, if there is a kitchen on the property, merely overcooking a dish could lead to unnecessary water damage.
Using heat is a more accurate method of detection since the temperature it emits will quickly rise when a fire breaks out. It will then heat the air near the sprinklers, causing them to react and begin extinguishing the flames.
Dousing the Fire
Once triggered, the sprinkler’s valve will open and force pressurised water to rush through it, thereby extinguishing the blaze. Due to the pressurised nature of the liquid, it will cover a more broad spread and also prevent reignition.
In movies, sprinklers activate all at once which drenches the surrounding area. It isn’t how they work, though. The reality is that sprinklers set off individually.
Fires usually start small and will not initially cover an ample space. Only sprinklers in the affected area will trigger, preventing unnecessary water damage. They use less water than a fire hose which shows it’s not the amount that is important, but the application of it.
How Effective are Fire Sprinklers?
Fire sprinklers are one of the most effective ways of dealing with a fire in the initial stages.
With a fire sprinkler system installed, the chance of your employees and property being adversely affected reduces dramatically. Statistics show an 80% decrease in injuries suffered and a 90% reduction in damage to the property, so their usefulness can’t be argued.
Many people worry about sprinkler systems being cumbersome, unsightly or even more damaging than the fire itself. It couldn’t be further from the truth. Most sprinklers are small and built into the ceiling, virtually undetectable.
Unless you’re specifically looking for them, you probably won’t see the system unless the sprinkler is in use.
Even if your warehouse, office building or apartment block is equipped with an automatic sprinkler system, be sure you have at least one smoke detector one on every floor. They cost little and save thousands of lives every year.
Fire Sprinkler Systems Installation
When it comes to fire sprinkler systems, EA-RS can provide you with a state-of-the-art option thanks to technology provide by Circum Fire Engineering. We can meet requirements for anywhere in the UK and can design wet, deluge or pre-action sprinkler systems depending on what you need.
We are an LPCB LPS 1048 Level 3 Accredited company.
Meaning we can handle the design, supply, installation, commissioning, servicing and maintenance. The list of Sprinkler Systems we can help you with include:
- Wet sprinklers
- Pre-action fire sprinklers
- Deluge fire sprinklers
- Dry and wet risers
- Fire pumps and water storage tanks
- Fire hydrants and hose reels
We will also provide continued servicing and maintenance for the future, to ensure your fire sprinkler systems are always in perfect working order.
More EA-RS Services
EA-RS aren’t just limited to sprinkler systems; we offer a comprehensive list of fire safety services. For the past two decades, we have worked tirelessly to safeguard British businesses across the country to offer mechanical and electrical packages in a single client order.
We will handle every aspect, from commissioning and installation to future maintenance and servicing. We can fit fire detection and alarm systems in your building and also provide suppression and water mist extinguishers to help quell any potential fires. If you’re looking for a holistic fire safety package, EA-RS can help.