Winterizing Your Fire Sprinklers

As the weather grows colder, it’s important to properly winterize your fire suppression system to prevent a system failure. During the colder months, heating systems are used to their full capacity, so it’s critical your fire sprinkler system always be ready to respond in the event of an emergency. 

Unfortunately, winter is also the time of year when fire sprinkler systems are more prone to breakdowns. The danger in winter is that the water in your sprinkler system will freeze, your pipes will burst, or both. In any of those scenarios, your system would be inoperable in an emergency.

Steps To Winterize Your Fire Sprinklers

We recommend requesting a quote for an inspection to ensure your system works as it should. Then, schedule winterization to be completed before the first frost so you’re ready for the months ahead.

It’s critical to perform this maintenance regardless of your typical climate. Even one day below freezing can cause your system to fail. There are a few different types of sprinkler systems – each with its own winter needs.

Dry Sprinkler Systems

A dry sprinkler system should be drained of all water before the weather reaches freezing temperatures. Ensuring low points are drained should guarantee the system is free of water. Also, make sure the riser or pump rooms are kept above 40 degrees Fahrenheit.

Wet Sprinkler Systems

Any space protected by a wet system should always be above 40 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure its proper function unless it’s an antifreeze system. In that case, check your system’s antifreeze levels based on newly implemented NFPA 25 requirements and verify they’re adhering to your system’s specific guidelines.

Even unoccupied spaces should have heating maintained to avoid sprinkler breaks, which can cause water damage.

Remember, temperatures above drop ceilings will be lower than the office areas, and since this is where the sprinkler piping is typically installed, dialing the thermostat back to temperatures in the low 50s or 60s means the temperatures above the ceiling won’t be maintained as high in an occupied space.

After winterizing, you should continue to visually inspect your sprinklers, whether it’s a dry or wet system. You’re looking for any signs of leaks or corrosion that could lead to a breakdown or complete failure.

Benefits of Winterizing Your Sprinkler System

Winterizing your sprinkler system is essential maintenance. Without it, you risk the health of your system and the safety of your employees, customers, and visitors. By caring for the system, you’re not only potentially saving lives but also protecting your fire sprinkler system and your property.

Choose Guardian Fire Protection

The professionals at Guardian Fire Protection are here for all your fire prevention needs. We offer comprehensive fire sprinkler services from inspections to repairs.

With over 40 years of experience, we understand what it takes to keep your property safe. We serve a variety of industries, including education, healthcare, and hospitality, and we offer services ranging from fire alarm inspections to emergency exit lighting.

Request a quote for a fire sprinkler inspection to ensure proper winterization by calling Guardian Fire Protection at (301) 861-0972.