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Fire sprinkler systems play a pivotal role in protecting lives, properties, and businesses from the devastating impacts of fires. When all intricate mechanisms, valves, and pipes are functioning properly, they are among the most effective methods to swiftly control and suppress fires before they spiral completely out of control.
However, there are persistent myths and misconceptions about fire sprinklers that remain widely believed. Sprinklers have been proven to reduce the impact of a building fire and are invariably life-saving assets, yet these myths can cause people to distrust sprinklers or express concern over their installation and maintenance.
To help separate fact from fiction, this post aims to debunk some of the most common fire sprinkler system myths, providing a clear understanding of how this critical safety equipment truly works.
Myth: All Sprinkler Heads Go Off at Once
One of the most widely perpetuated myths is that every single sprinkler head engages simultaneously during a fire. In reality, only the sprinkler head(s) directly affected by the fire will activate.
Each sprinkler head operates independently. They are designed to automatically activate once temperatures reach a certain level within the vicinity of that specific head. The remaining closed heads elsewhere stay put until individually triggered by encroaching heat.
Myth: Sprinklers are Triggered by Smoke
Contrary to popular belief, smoke itself does not cause fire sprinklers to activate. It is the heat and temperature rise resulting from combustion that triggers the sprinklers nearest the fire source.
Some facilities may integrate smoke detection systems into their fire safety protocols, but this equipment remains separate from the sprinkler system itself. Smoke alarms and detectors provide an early warning of potential fire incidents so emergency responses like sprinkler activation can follow swiftly.
Myth: They Can Go Off Accidentally
Thanks to their rigid design specifications, accidental sprinkler activation is extremely unlikely. It takes a precise temperature threshold to open the thermal-responsive element and release water flow from the heads.
Rest assured – routine motions like shutting doors, vibrations, or even forceful impacts won’t inadvertently set them off.
Myth: Sprinkler Water Causes More Damage Than Fire
Due to their life-saving ability to swiftly extinguish fires and prevent escalation, fire sprinklers actually minimise overall water damage compared to what firefighters would need to do in the absence of working sprinklers.
Consider that the average fire is brought under control by just a single sprinkler head discharging around 12-13 gallons per minute, compared to fire hoses releasing 120-130 gallons per minute until the blaze is extinguished. The sprinkler substantially reduces not only flames but also excess property damage and water saturation.
Trust the Experts for Reliable Fire Sprinkler Protection
Don’t let misinformation prevent you from reaping the full safety benefits of automatic fire sprinkler systems. These systems offer proven effectiveness at minimising injury, loss of life, and property damage from fires when implemented correctly with quality components.
Applications Engineering supplies premium sprinkler system products, from robust flow pressure switches to durable control valves, piping components, and more. With our industry-leading expertise, we can provide the recommended products that specifically suit your facility’s layout, processes, and fire suppression needs.
With our rapid next-day delivery services and wide product availability at our warehouse in Sussex, you can install reliable, approved fire sprinklers to safeguard your building in no time. Get in touch with our team to see how you can enhance your building’s fire protection today. We’ll dispel any other lingering sprinkler system myths in the meantime!
For more information on Debunking Common Myths About Fire Sprinkler Systems talk to Applications Engineering Limited