Maintaining and inspecting your fire pump(s) properly can help detect and prevent any issues with your sprinkler system. Fire pumps help maintain designed pressure on each fire sprinkler system in your building. When a fire pump stops working, your entire sprinkler system becomes compromised due to its inability to produce the water pressure needed in an emergency. Practicing some of the tips below could help prolong the life of your fire pump.
Tips to Maintain Your Fire Pump
- Perform weekly pump runs.
This can be done by a designated person in your organization or you could hire a specialized company like Fire Systems Inc.
- Check the power source of your fire pump
The power source should also be cycled once or twice a year. Cycling enables you to maintain lubrication and allows inspection of the running system.
- Make you Fire Alarm Panel is receiving signals.
Failure to notify your alarm system of a fire emergency could leave your business and employees vulnerable.
- Prevent parts inside the fire pump from locking in place by lubricating them and moving them around.
- Check the components inside your fire pump such as the pressure relief valve, the packing, and casing relief valve. Also, make sure that everything is opening and closing properly.
- Monitor your water pressure gauge. If the pressure is above or below the normal reading, make sure to contact your fire protection professional.
Fire Pump Testing
NFPA 25 – the standard for inspection, testing, and maintenance of water-based fire protection systems – mandates various tests at different time intervals depending on the type of system.
Fire Systems Inc. inspects, designs, tests, and installs fire pumps and other types of sprinkler systems. We also perform weekly pump runs and annual inspections, which include the flow test. Call us or visit our website to obtain a quote or schedule a site visit.
