Fire Suppression System: Performing a Water Flow Test

1/4/2022 (Permalink)

A fire sprinkler is an often required fire prevention tool in commercial properties.

Performing a Water Flow Test

A fire sprinkler is a common and often required fire prevention tool in commercial properties. However, it is necessary to test your system at least a couple of times a year and have a full-blown inspection at least once a year. To check your system, follow these four steps.

1. Notify Proper Authorities

If your fire suppression system is connected to a central alarm, then it is necessary to notify the property authorities about your test. While it may not be apparent, a test of your system will notify the authorities, and it will not come through as a false alarm. Reach out to your alarm provider and your local fire department to ensure that they do not respond to the test alarm.

2. Open the Test Valve

Every fire sprinkler system will have an inspector’s test valve. To test the water flow within the system, you merely turn the valve so that it is in line with the water pipe. This will pressurize the system, creating a controlled alarm without dousing your property with water.

3. Wait For Alarm To Sound and Confirm

Once the valve is open, you will need to wait about 60 seconds, at which point the alarm will sound. When the alarm sounds, call your alarm provider to ensure that the signal was received.

4. Close the Valve and Notify Authorities

Once you have confirmed that the alarm is operating correctly, you can slowly close the valve. After the valve is shut and the signal is off, call the fire department and your alarm company to let them know the test is finished.

Additionally, once everything is off, walk your property and check for any leaks that may have occurred during the test. If you find leaks, you can call a fire remediation specialist in the Garland, TX, area for not only the fire sprinkler cleanup but also to replace any damaged lines.

A fire sprinkler system is a lifesaving piece of equipment. Performing water flow tests and scheduling annual inspections will ensure the functionality of your system for years to come.