March 30, 2026
Gem, Central, and Star are no longer made, but Tyco makes equivalent parts for some old sprinkler escutcheons. Learn how to replace these parts.
March 22, 2026
How and why two types of deluge systems deliver a lot of water, fast In the movies, all fire sprinklers always go off at the … Read more
March 10, 2026
Most FDCs use standard NH/NST threads—but some don’t! QRFS explains the different fire hose and FDC threads and sizes used in various jurisdictions.
March 4, 2026
A retrofit escutcheon can save the time and hassle of replacing regular fire sprinkler escutcheons—but you have to know when you can use them!
March 4, 2026
The NFPA 25 rules for replacing a fire sprinkler escutcheon or cover plate have changed to mirror rules for sprinklers. Learn what’s needed.
February 28, 2026
If a hole around a concealed fire sprinkler is too big for a cover plate, you have options besides renovating the ceiling or wall!
January 15, 2026
ANY paint on a sprinkler traditionally meant replacing it, but the NFPA 25 rules have changed (a bit). Learn what qualifies as a deficiency.
January 8, 2026
Some home sprinklers are labeled “lead-free” while others aren’t. Learn why, and when lead-free versions are absolutely required.
November 21, 2025
Smoke detectors in high places? No problem. Learn about the essential accessories that make functional detector testing smooth and easy.
November 19, 2025
Iron fittings come in multiple varieties. Should you choose cast iron fittings, ductile iron, or malleable iron? Learn the NFPA rules and pros and cons of each.
November 5, 2025
A sprinkler supervisory switch, whether it’s a flow, tamper, or pressure switch, has specific electrical specs. Learn more about these numbers.
October 22, 2025
Long dry sprinkler barrels can cause a practical reduction in K-factor. But learn why there’s usually still only one sprinkler K-factor number for all barrel lengths.
October 17, 2025
Wax-coated sprinklers may not hold up as well in specific corrosive environments. Learn about other options to keep heads in good shape.
October 15, 2025
NFPA requires keeping extra fire sprinklers onsite, but they can go obsolete. Learn how to source and buy system- & code-compliant spares.
October 14, 2025
Some FDC parts are juicy targets for thieves—other versions of them, not so much. Learn what’s what, including theft-deterrent options.
October 11, 2025
Non-working control valve handles in fire protection systems must be addressed ASAP. Here’s why, along with maintenance and replacement tips.
October 8, 2025
Hardware stores don’t sell fire sprinklers, cover plates, or escutcheons. Learn why there are no Lowe’s or Home Depot fire sprinklers and where to buy these parts.
September 24, 2025
Learn how to choose and install a sprinkler escutcheon extension tube that can cover extra-long sprinkler drops or dry sprinkler barrels.
