QwikBids Investigates
There are many myths surrounding fire sprinklers in the home. But as we found out, not only were some of these myths untrue, we discovered some other facts many aren’t aware of. As QwikBids learned more, it was realized these systems have come a long way over the years in not only protection, but cost and affordability as well.
Take Scottsdale, Arizona for instance. A city ordinance, implemented in January of 1986, requires single-family homes built after that date to be equipped with approved fire sprinklers. If a major remodel is to be done to a home built before that time, fire sprinklers must be included. This was supplemental to the ordinance already implemented for multi-family homes and commercial buildings in 1985. According to the City of Scottsdale, these systems have been responsible for saving the lives of at least 14 in a 15 year period in which data was collected, not to mention millions of dollars in property damage.
As for some of the myths behind fire sprinklers, one in particular is that its believed fire sprinklers, when engaged by a fire, all open up at the same time, causing water damage to the rest of the house unaffected by flames. This is simply untrue, as two myths were found in that statement. Fire sprinklers are individually heat activated; they will therefore open only if near heat or flame. As for water damage? That just speaks for itself if only one sprinkler opens during a fire. Visit the City of Scottsdale website for more interesting myths.
When speaking with a service provider with QwikBids, I was given the crash course on leaks. He says the sprinkler heads, unless very old or defective, don’t usually leak. Another consideration to make if a leak is found is that sometimes, if a sprinkler head is near an AC vent, condensation can build, trickle along the piping to the sprinkler head, and drip. Of course, the hapless occupant believes it’s a sprinkler leak. I appreciated the tip, as I would have never thought of that!
An effective fire sprinkler system means effective maintenance. Here are some things to remember:
- Each month, take a visual look at your entire system to assure there are no obstructions that would compromise the sprinklers spray pattern or purpose.
- Never hang things from the sprinkler heads.
- Avoid painting, overspray, or paint splatters on or near the sprinkler heads.
- Don’t bump, hit, or otherwise tamper with the sprinkler heads.
- The pressure relief valve is pre-adjusted by the manufacturer; do not change.
- Make sure to schedule regular testing of the entire system.
- Be certain when having parts replaced that the provider is licensed and certified.
- Always check your smoke alarms!
Searching for qualified fire equipment providers can be a pain, especially if you don’t know where to start looking. QwikBids does the homework for you. Place a bid request for an inspection, test of your system, or repair for a simple leak easily from certified, licensed providers. Quality, at a great price, makes perfect sense!