While these pipes may look strong enough to lift some of your equipment, they are actually fragile. One wrong move could cause a malfunction.
Like any other systems in your business, sprinkler systems have been known to malfunction every once in a while. Although they happen rarely, these malfunctions do happen and could affect your business. Let’s take a moment to discuss five of the most common sprinkler system malfunctions.
Freezing
The water in the fire sprinkler system has been known to freeze if proper precautions have not been taken. Frozen sprinkler pipes can be prevented by adding antifreeze or insulating pipes during the cold winter months. Freezing water can expand in the pipes, causing them to burst or crack. Once cracked or burst, your pipes could cause water damage to your property and insurmountable damage.
Overheating
The polar opposite of freezing, system overheating is also a common malfunction for your sprinkler system. Since sprinkler systems are activated by heat, it is important for you to consider both summer and winter temperatures. Different sprinkler heads are designed to go off at different temperatures and could activate by a natural rise in temperature. If your ceiling temperature rises to 155 Fahrenheit, make sure to install a sprinkler system is equipped to handle higher temperatures.
Corrosion
Like any water-based system, sprinkler system pipes are also subject to corrosion. Corrosion can impact the functionality of the system and even lead to leaks. To help prevent corrosion, it is important to have your sprinkler system pipes inspected annually.
Mechanical Damage
If your sprinkler system was poorly installed or poorly maintained, your system is at risk of mechanical damage. Mechanical damages can include over-tightening fittings, improperly installed sprinkler heads, and a variety of other mistakes made during installation.
Human Error
One of the most common causes of sprinkler system malfunction is human error. Unfortunately, many people think sprinkler system pipes are indestructible. Many people use these pipes hang something on like ropes or chains in order to lift heavy items. Sprinkler systems can also be damaged if they are knocked into or if they are painted over.
While accidents do happen, if one of these incidents happens in your business, it is important to call Fireline to inspect your sprinkler system and to replace any damaged elements of the system. For more information on replacing your sprinkler system, call Fireline today!
Prevent Fire Sprinkler Malfunctions with Fireline
At Fireline, we offer an array of portable fire extinguishers, fire alarms, and sprinkler systems to keep commercial kitchens safe. Fireline offers the highest quality alarm systems to keep your business safe from fires and carbon monoxide poisoning. We also offer fire suppression systems as well to help keep commercial fires controlled should they break out. Our trained technicians will work with you to determine which air sampling smoke detection system is best for your business. We will also help install and maintain the system for your commercial building.
To get started with Fireline today, or for more information on sprinkler systems call us at 1-800-553-3405, or visit our contact page.
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