NFPA and numerous fire sprinkler manufacturers have a low tolerance for any sprinkler that has been painted with aftermarket paint. Replacing painted fire sprinklers is often the proper course of action. QRFS looks at why the rules are so strict, as well as how to choose a replacement model.
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 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.
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.
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.
Home fire sprinklers are simple and easy to maintain, and they can last for decades with minimal care. But the specific maintenance requirements depend on the type of system and the components that are installed. QRFS takes a look at how to maintain different home fire sprinkler systems, including the essential “don’ts” that ensure sprinklers will work in an emergency.
In the last installment of our series covering the installation of home fire sprinklers, we complete our look at major sprinkler system components, examining pipe in home fire sprinklers as well as valves and alarms.
In Part 2 of our Residential Fire Sprinkler Installation series, we cover some of the major components of residential fire sprinkler systems: The types of sprinkler heads and their distribution; how the water supply is determined and applies to standalone or multipurpose systems; and pumps, tanks, and other possible items that can be used in a system.
Fire sprinkler systems are incredibly reliable and effective, but several things can cause an accidental discharge, including vandalism or negligence. QRFS examines why fire sprinklers go off at the wrong time and how a simple $50 solution – the Shutgun – can prevent thousands of dollars in water damage.
