Signs Your Fire Sprinkler System Needs To Be Replaced

Signs Your Fire Sprinkler System Needs To Be Replaced
2 years ago

Part of creating a suitable work environment is guaranteeing employee safety. Having an emergency exit plan and safeguards in place helps foster that environment and ensure that your employees are working to the best of their ability. After all, it’s impossible to work properly in a hazardous environment or an area where you don’t feel safe.

That’s where your fire sprinkler system comes in. You and your employees can feel safe and secure knowing that they’re protected if a fire occurs. But maintaining those safeguards isn’t just important—it’s non-negotiable. Here are the signs your fire sprinkler system needs to be replaced, helping you recognize a faulty protection system for an emergency happens.

Leaks

If you notice wet spots and water damage in the walls or ceilings, your sprinkler system may be the culprit. A more obvious sign is dripping, especially from a spot that has been clearly corroded. Typically, leaks will occur at the joints or sprinkler heads.

Sometimes, leakage is due to a loose part rather than damage or corrosion. Either way, this will be very noticeable in an office or business setting.

Age

Depending on your facility’s type of sprinkler system, you may need to replace your system every ten years. For example, if you have a dry sprinkler system, you will need to replace it every 10 years. In contrast, a wet system needs to be replaced every 15 to 25 years.

However, this number may be different if your facility is older. You need to look at building documentation to know the true age of your sprinkler system. In addition, the inspector may give the owner of the building extra sprinkler heads, in which case you will need to record the age of replacements as well. If any parts are past the replacement date, it’s time to call a plumber.

Damage and Corrosion

Visible damage is the easiest warning sign to determine. Unfortunately, your sprinkler system will eventually become damaged even with perfect maintenance. So, after construction, building repair, or even a break-in, check your system for dents and cracks on the pipes, valves, and sprinkler heads.

If your building often gets humid or your system is water-based, corrosion will be more common. Corrosion will appear as rust and holes, often accompanied by discoloration and a rotten egg or sulfur smell. While you may be able to install and repair certain parts yourself, such as valves and sprinkler heads, it’s best to call a professional for structural or pipe damage.

Whether you own a start-up company or a brand-name business, employee safety should always come first. Knowing the signs your fire sprinkler system needs to be replaced can save you and your company from severe consequences. If you suspect that your fire sprinkler system needs to be replaced, call a plumber with safety system experience today.

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