In QRFS’ continuing series on NFPA’s commercial fire sprinkler inspection requirements, we look at what you need to check out — and when — it comes to fire sprinkler gauges, signs, water flow alarms and supervisory signaling devices.
Over time, fire sprinkler manufacturers collapse, merge, or discontinue products, making repairs to fire sprinkler systems more difficult. Our manufacturer identification and product replacement guide helps make replacing an obsolete fire sprinkler a little easier.
Fire pumps add a great deal of complexity to the maintenance of a commercial fire sprinkler system. In Part 3 of QRFS’ continuing series, we explain the inspection requirements for systems with fire pumps — whether they use electric, diesel, or steam-turbine engines.
Fire sprinkler cover plates must be rated for the exact temperature that fits a specific sprinkler head. QRFS explains how to determine the right temperature rating when looking to replace a cover plate.
PEX tube has been approved for use in wet fire sprinklers, in both multipurpose and standalone systems — but can PEX be used in dry or preaction systems? QRFS answers a question posed by a reader — and gets a ruling directly from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).
Escutcheons that surround fire sprinkler heads are not just decorative — they prevent smoke and heat from escaping into a wall or ceiling and NFPA requires that you replace damaged or missing escutcheons. QRFS explains how to size an escutcheon to make sure a replacement matches your fire sprinkler.
Regular inspections are required to keep commercial fire sprinkler systems working and up to code. In the first part of this series, QRFS explains the steps involved in the annual visual inspection of fire sprinkler heads.
CPVC and PEX have become extremely popular, safety-approved pipe materials in home fire sprinkler systems. Both are easier and less expensive to install than metallic pipe and have better performance characteristics. But which of the two thermoplastics is better? QRFS attempts to answer this excellent question.
Tamper-resistant fire sprinklers are essential in prisons, jails, mental health facilities, and other secured environments. QRFS explains how institutional fire sprinkler heads can help prevent vandalism, suicide, accidental discharges and other incidents that involve tampering with an automatic fire safety system.
Cleanrooms that are used in manufacturing, research, and medical facilities require fire sprinkler systems that are easy to clean without damaging the sprinkler heads. QRFS details the benefits of fire sprinkler cover plates in cleanrooms and other highly-sanitary environments.
