Sprinkler Inspections
Inspections
Periodic Inspections by a qualified expert are required by local and state fire codes to remain in compliance with NFPA 25 2006 California edition. The purpose of these periodic inspections is to identify potential problems with your sprinkler system before they become life threatening issues. From a safety and liability standpoint it’s vitally important that your fire sprinkler system is always in compliance with the law.
Below is a sample of several of your systems components and the frequency at which they must be inspected.
| System Component | Inspection Frequency |
|---|---|
| Gauges | Quarterly |
| Check Valves | 5 years |
| Control Valves | Quarterly |
| Alarm Devices and valves | Quarterly |
| Fire Department Connections | Quarterly |
| Hangers, seismic bracing pipe and Fittings | Annually |
| Sprinklers | Quarterly |
| Pressure Reducing and Relief Valves | Semi-Annually |
| Hydraulic Nameplate | Quarterly |
Testing
System testing takes over where periodic inspections leave off, thus insuring that critical components operate properly when you need them.
System components that operate only in emergency situations require periodic testing to make sure they will operate properly when needed. For most of the tests this is accomplished by putting the components being tested in a flow condition that would exist should a fire occur.
The following is a partial list of system components that must be tested and the applicable frequency.
| System Component | Inspection Frequency |
|---|---|
| Main Drains | Annually |
| Water-Flow Alarms | Annually |
| Control Valves | Annually or as needed |
| Fire department connection | 5 years |
| Valves | Annually or as needed |
| Gauges | 5 Years |
| Trip test | Annually |
| Sprinklers (Extra High Temperature) | 5 Years |
| Sprinklers (Fast Response) | At 20 years then every 10 Years |
| Sprinklers | At 50 years then every 10 Years |
Maintenance
Over time, some system components may require repair or replacement to keep your system in good working order.
Fire sprinkler system components wear out over time, much the same as your vehicle has wear and tear over time. Scheduled maintenance of your systems components ensure that critical components are replaced as their life expectancy runs out. Piping needs to be periodically drained and flushed to prevent clogging.
The following is a sample list of some system components and their required frequency of maintenance
| System Component | Inspection Frequency |
|---|---|
| Valves (All Types) | Annually or As Needed |
| Obstruction Investigation | 5 Years or As Needed |
| Low Point Drains | Annually or As Needed |
| Fire Pumps | Annually |
Our inspection tracking system maintains your systems inspection, testing, and maintenance history, allowing us to schedule periodic testing and maintenance at convenient times. Thus you will be certain that your system is in compliance and in good working order at all times.
Capitol Fire & Backflow
Phone: (916) 838-2338
Mike@capitolfireandbackflow.com