What Are
Fire Sprinkler Systems?
Individual fire sprinklers are spaced throughout the ceiling or walls of a building. The sprinklers are integrated with a network of piping and connected to a water supply. Heat from any unwanted fire activates one or more sprinklers in the immediate vicinity of the fire, permitting water to flow, which extinguishes or controls the fire.
How do sprinklers operate?
Automatic fire sprinklers are individually heat-activated, and tied into a network of piping with water under pressure. When the heat of a fire raises the sprinkler temperature to its operating point (usually 155ºF), a liquid-filled glass bulb will shatter or solder link will melt to open a single sprinkler, releasing water directly over the source of the heat.
Why are sprinklers important for life safety?
Sprinklers do not rely upon human factors such as familiarity with escape routes or emergency assistance. They go to work immediately to reduce the danger. Sprinklers prevent the fast developing fires of intense heat, which are capable of trapping and killing dozens of building occupants.
Myth "They cause water damage."
Fact:Your sprinkler system will severely limit a fire's growth. Therefore, damage from home sprinkler system will be much less severe than the smoke and fire damage if the fire had gone on unabated or even the water damage cause by water from fire fighting hose lines. Quick response sprinklers release 13-24 gallons of water per minute compare to 125 gallons per minute released by a fire hose. An uncontrolled fire will cause significantly greater damage.
Myth "If one sprinkler goes off, they all will."
Fact: Only the sprinkler over the fire will activate. Sprinklers in each room react to temperatures in each room individually (usually 165° F). So, fire in a bedroom will activate only the sprinkler(s) in that room.
Myth "The sprinklers may go off by accident."
Fact: The odds are 1 in 16 million per years, in service, against accidental discharge because of a manufacturing defect. Further, sprinkler systems are specifically designed for your building and will be rigorously tested to minimize such accidents.
Myth "Sprinkler systems are ugly."
Fact: Due to advances in sprinkler technology, unobtrusive and attractive, ceiling and sidewall mount sprinkler heads are now designed to blend into your room decor, ready to provide effective fire protection. Sprinklers are also available in a range of colors and sizes to blend into the background of any room. Rollins Fire Sprinklers specializes in effective and attractive systems for your home.
Myth "What about the sprinkler system freezing?"
Fact: Like your plumbing system, your sprinkler piping is usually installed on inside walls, eliminating their exposure to freezing temperatures. In cold climates, any outside fire sprinkler piping should be insulated.
Myth "A smoke detector is enough protection."
Fact: Smoke detectors will save lives by providing a much-needed warning system; but can do nothing to extinguish a growing fire. Too often, battery operated smoke detectors fail to function because the batteries are dead or have been removed. Detectors must be maintained in good working order to help save your life.
Myth "I can't afford a sprinkler system."
Fact: Usually, this is a question of priority. We don't hesitate to buy a more comfortable couch, a plush carpet or the latest sound equipment. You can install a sprinkler system throughout your home for the equivalent cost. In fact, a sprinkler installation in a new home can cost as little as $1 per square foot, which in many cases would represent less than 1% of the total construction cost; retrofitted systems are more expensive but easy to install. Your family is the most precious part of your life. Their safety - is it a necessity or just another option? Only you can decide. |
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