Albuquerque Fire Sprinkler System Annual Inspection and Testing Basics

Albuquerque, have you considered what goes on during an Albuquerque fire sprinkler inspection? The answer to that question hinges on if it is a wet or dry fire sprinkler system.  

Let’s examine each type of sprinkler system inspection to learn more.

WET FIRE SPRINKLER SYSTEM INSPECTION BASICS

A wet sprinkler system inspection involves the following steps:

1. The first step during a wet fire sprinkler system inspection involves the inspection of every valve at the rise, and then a gauge check to make certain each one is calibrated or in date.
2. During this step, a check is made to make certain there are several spare heads on hand and wrenches with both stored safely in a spare head toolbox.
3. Next, a full examine is completed on the system to check for system anomalies, including building areas without fire protection, loaded sprinkler heads covered with dirt, dust, grime or grease. During this exam of the sprinkler system, it may be discovered that several of its sprinkler heads need to be replaced or thoroughly cleaned so the system will operate correctly when needed.
4. Next a check is made to make certain there is sufficient coverage (proper spacing), correct sprinkler heads, a complete pipe inspection is done to check for issues like system leaks, rust, or corrosion.
5. A full hanger check is made to make certain all hangers are properly secured and space correctly. After the hanger check a complete “main drain” is done. A “main drain” involves opening the main drain valve followed by a pressure gauge reading check. This is followed by operating the sprinkler systems control valves to check and make certain its supervisory switches report to the panel.
6. The final step involves doing an actual flow to run the alarm, and the time it to make certain it arrives at a passing time of 60 to 90 seconds. The time for the test is recorded and then it is applied in writing on the system’s tag. 

Dry FIRE SPRINKLER SYSTEM INSPECTION BASICS

A dry sprinkler system inspection involves the following steps:

1. The first step during a dry fire sprinkler system inspection involves doing a trip out of the dry valve. This is called a “choke trip”.  The main difference between a wet and dry inspection is that a dry system needs to trip out the dry valve. We do what is called a “choke trip”. This step simulates a real fire, and at the same time “choking” the water from below from coming up. Dry sprinkler systems are installed in commercial building in sections of the building prone to freezing such as building attics and exterior canopies. In a dry sprinkler system, the pipes are air filled and the water is kept below the system. During an annual system inspection and test, each valve is tripped to make sure the valve trip works. A full trip test is performed every third year on a dry sprinkler system.
2. During the test water is flowed to the end of the lined and timed. 60 to 90 seconds flow time is a passing time.
3. Full trip tests are not performed from Oct. 31 to April 1^st because of the freezing risk. Springtime is the best time for full trip test so system can dry out during the heat of the summertime.
4. During the second step, all the wet sprinkler system checks are made including a complete visual inspection, spacing check and corrision.

Important FIRE SPRINKLER INSPECTION FACTS and Requirements

• Every 50 years all sprinkler heads must be replaced on a standard sprinkler system. Every 20 years all sprinkler heads must be replaced on a quick response sprinkler system.
• Fire sprinklers systems (wet and dry) must be inspected annually.
• Dry fire sprinkler system inspections cost a bit more because testing requires two technicians.

Albuquerque fire sprinkler systems need to be tested annually. When it comes time to get your commercial properties fire sprinkler system inspected, test or serviced, give the professionals at Brazas Fire a call at 505-889-8999.