When discussing fire safety, few systems rank higher in importance than a well-designed sprinkler system. Sprinklers perform wonderfully at controlling fires by providing an automatic response that helps limit damages to assets and protects lives. However, selecting the most appropriate type of sprinkler for your fire protection needs can be overwhelming. We are going to explain the different types of sprinklers, where and when to use them, and things to consider when installing a fire sprinkler system.

What is a Sprinkler?

A sprinkler is a critical component of a building fire protection system that discovers and quenches fires in structures. It performs by discharging water as the fire heat melts the sprinkler’s fusible link or glass bulb. Once activated, water gets sprayed across an extensive region, thus reducing the strength of the fire as well as its potential for propagation. Fire sprinkler systems are generally fitted in commercial, industrial, and residential buildings for fire protection.

Understanding Fire Sprinkler Systems

Let’s learn about the fire-fighting sprinkler system before discussing the various sprinklers. The common system is a pipe system filled with water or any other extinguishing agent. When the temperature in a room increases due to a fire, the sprinkler head becomes activated, discharging water to suppress the fire. The systems are utilized in the majority of locations since they are efficient, reliable, and do not require a lot of hand-holding after installation.

1. Wet Pipe Sprinkler System

Wet pipe sprinkler system is the most popular and reliable type. It contains filled pipes with water that discharges water directly upon sprinkler head activation. The water pressure in the pipes remains constant, and when the air becomes warm due to the fire, the sprinkler heads dump water directly onto the fire. This is suitable for areas with minimal risk of freezing or frequent fire occurrences, hence very prevalent in commercial buildings, hotels, and manufacturing plants. The fact that it remains permanently pressurized ensures that there is quick response to a fire, lowering the damage.

2. Dry Pipe Sprinkler System

Dry pipe sprinklers are distinct from wet pipe systems because they hold pressurized nitrogen or air as opposed to water in the pipes. The water is stored somewhere else and only fills the pipes upon activation of the sprinkler. This system is most ideal for environments that may have freezing temperatures, such as warehouses or cold storage. When a sprinkler head is triggered, the air is released and water travels through the pipes to extinguish the fire. Although this system will be subject to a slight delay compared with wet systems due to the water having some distance to travel, it is still a good option for cold environments.

3. Pre-Action Sprinkler System

A pre-action sprinkler system is a hybrid of the wet and dry pipe systems. It has two initiators prior to the release of water: a fire alarm system and sprinkler head activation. The fire alarm system first detects heat or smoke and opens the pre-action valve. Then, as the temperature rises even higher, the sprinkler heads release water to extinguish the fire. Pre-action systems are typically used where additional protection is required, such as in data centers, museums, or equipment rooms holding high-value equipment. The double-trigger makes excessive water damage avoidable since water is only allowed to be discharged when a fire is certain.

4. Deluge Sprinkler System

A deluge sprinkler system is very much like a wet pipe system but differs in that all sprinkler heads are kept open at all times. When the fire detection system is activated, a deluge valve allows water to flow into all sprinkler heads simultaneously. This system is used in high-hazard situations where immediate suppression of fire is critical, such as chemical plants or aircraft hangars. As all the sprinklers release the water at the same time, the deluge system provides an extremely large and immediate response to fire. But it is best suited for areas of extremely high fire hazard.

5. ESFR (Early Suppression, Fast Response) Sprinkler System

The ESFR sprinkler system is designed to suppress large fires early in high-hazard occupancies. It is typically used in large industrial warehouses, distribution facilities, or areas with deep inventory piles. ESFR sprinklers release water at a much higher rate than ordinary sprinklers, which facilitates fast suppression of the fire. This system employs larger sprinkler heads that spread water over a wide area to provide effective smothering for preventing fire spread, particularly in structures with extensive open spaces and elevated shelves. 

6. Water Mist Sprinkler System

A water mist sprinkler system works by discharging extremely fine atomized water droplets instead of large streams. It can effectively extinguish fires with less water, making less possible water damage to the property. It is primarily used in areas where traditional sprinkler systems are not feasible, like museums or historic buildings.

7. Foam Sprinkler System

The foam sprinkler system is a variant of the standard firefighting sprinkler system that is designed to use a foam solution to extinguish fires. Foam is used in the event of fires over flammable liquids, such as oil or chemicals, because water alone will not be enough to put out such fires.

The foam produced by the sprinkler system is a dense covering over the fire that deprives the fire of oxygen, thus putting out the fire earlier. Foam sprinkler systems are used in factories, airports, and refineries where there are stored or utilized flammable liquids.

What Are Fire Sprinkler Prices?

Among the most important considerations when choosing fire sprinkler installation is the price of the system. Prices for fire sprinkler systems differ with different considerations, including the size of the building, type of fire sprinkler system, complexity in the installation, and materials used. On average, you will spend between $1 and $2 per square foot for an average sprinkler system installation.

However, types like ESFR, water mist, or foam sprinklers might be more costly due to the highly specialized pieces required. Obtaining a quote from a qualified installer to get a proper quote based on your use and the most appropriate kind of sprinkler system for your building is essential.

Fire Sprinkler Installation: A Key Step

A certified professional should install the fire sprinkler system at all times. Proper installation is the only way that the system will perform as designed when a fire breaks out. A trained installer will evaluate your building, choose the best system for your needs, and place the sprinklers where they will provide the most good.

Professional installation is also necessary so that your fire sprinkler system will comply with local fire codes and legislation. Fire sprinkler systems need regular inspection and maintenance so they remain functional. It makes sense to have periodic inspections conducted so your system remains in top working order.

Invest in Fire Safety Today

Don’t wait until it’s too late; ensure your property is equipped with a reliable and efficient fire sprinkler system. Visit Elixir Engineering to learn more about fire-fighting sprinkler systems and get professional fire sprinkler installation tailored to your needs. With the right system, you’re investing in safety and protection.