We have prepared a complete Winter Preparedness Checklist for your convenience:

Wet Pipe Sprinkler Systems:

– Ensure that the building shell is in good condition; close up any unnecessary openings
– Maintain building heat at a minimum of 40°F in all normally heated areas and any area with a wet pipe sprinkler system
– Check coldest points of building to ensure temperature is at least 40°F (i.e., eaves, over shipping doors, spaces without direct heat)
– Consider low temperature alarms in areas where heat is suspect
– Identify vulnerable areas, such as crawl spaces, attics, and above suspended ceilings, where water piping pass through and provide a way for heat to reach these areas
– Place thermostats and/or low temperature alarms at strategic locations to monitor building temperature
– Check insulation in attic areas or other areas near wet pipe sprinkler pipes.

Dry Pipe Sprinkler Systems:

– Maintain heat in dry pipe valve rooms, fire pump rooms and all areas protected by wet pipe sprinkler systems, at a minimum of 40°F.
– Heaters should be thermostatically controlled. Use of portable heaters is discouraged.
– Drain all low point drains weekly during freezing weather. Have additional drains installed if necessary.
– Have air leaks repaired to keep system from tripping if compressor power is lost.
– Air supplied to the compressor should come from a dry, room-temperature source. If this is not possible, or moisture build-up is a problem, consider installing an air dryer or using nitrogen instead of air.
– Have the pitch checked on any pipes
Hydrants, Control Valves and Fire Department Connections:
– Check private hydrant fittings for tightness.
– For areas prone to significant snow, identify hydrants with flags or markers located above the average snow line.
– Check around hydrants and post indicator valves for soft or wet ground. This is an indication of a leaky underground piping and should be further assessed.
– Ensure all control valves are in their normal operating position and secure from tampering.
– Check fire department connections for accessibility. Keep clear by shoveling away snow to access connections.
Antifreeze Systems:
– Have antifreeze solution checked for mix strength.
Gravity and Suction Tanks:
– Flush heaters, water circulating equipment and piping
– Turn on heaters and water circulating equipment and monitor equipment throughout winter months.