Understanding Commercial Fire Sprinkler Systems to Minimize Water Damage

3/18/2024 (Permalink)

Fire Protection with Less Water Damage: Choose the Right Sprinkler System

Fire sprinkler systems are a crucial line of defense against commercial property fires. But did you know there are different types designed for specific needs? Choosing the right system can not only help contain a fire but also mitigate potential water damage during fire suppression.

This blog post from SERVPRO of Gurnee, your local disaster restoration experts, will break down the most common commercial fire sprinkler systems:

Wet Pipe Systems: The Most Common Choice

• Consistently filled with water for immediate fire response.
• Heat triggers the sprinkler heads closest to the fire, typically only one or two.
• Ideal for most commercial buildings due to their reliability and cost-effectiveness.

Dry Pipe Systems: Protecting Against Freezing

• Perfect for unheated or cold environments where pipes could freeze.
• Uses pressurized air or gas to keep water out of the pipes until a fire.
• Heat activates the system, releasing the air/gas and allowing water to flow.
• More sprinklers may activate compared to a wet pipe system.

Deluge Systems: Fast Action for High-Risk Areas

• Designed for hazardous environments prone to rapid-spreading fires (e.g., chemical storage)
• Pipes remain empty until a fire is detected.
• A deluge valve opens upon fire alarm, allowing water to discharge from all sprinklers simultaneously.

Pre-Action Systems: Balancing Fire Protection with Water Damage Concerns

• Ideal for areas with valuable water-sensitive equipment or materials.
• Uses pressurized air or gas to hold back water until a fire is confirmed.
• A fire alarm triggers a pre-action valve, filling the pipes with water.
• Similar to a wet pipe system, only the sprinkler heads closest to the fire typically activate.
• "Double Interlock" pre-action systems use additional air pressure, causing more sprinklers to open at once.

Fire Damage or Water Damage? SERVPRO of Gurnee Can Help

Even with fire sprinkler systems, fires and water emergencies can happen. SERVPRO of Gurnee is here to help 24/7/365 with advanced water damage restoration and fire remediation services. Call us at 847-838-2954 to minimize the disruption to your business.