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Five Types of Sprinkler System Malfunctions

The fire sprinkler systems in our Queens buildings stand quiet sentry until called into action to dowse a fire and perhaps save lives. Fire sprinklers in Queens are effective and low-maintenance systems that rarely if ever malfunction. But when a fire sprinkler system malfunction does occur, the water it distributes can cause as much damage to a facility as a fire can. It’s important, and in many cases it is the law, to perform a regularly scheduled routine of inspection and repair when required. The experts at Allstate Sprinkler Corp. can assist as experts in sprinkler systems in Queens.

Overheating

Overhead water sprinklers are activated by the heat that the sprinkler head senses in the room. When a room’s temperature reaches a specific measure, the sprinkler will open and spray water. Sprinkler heads are rated for temperature, whether the temperature is from a very hot ambient air temperature or an active fire situation. Know what kind of temperatures your facility is exposed to, and factor those conditions into the choice of sprinkler head temperature activation for that area.

Freezing

Sprinkler systems in Queens are susceptible to the effects of cold temperatures as well as hot. Fire systems that use water can be severely damaged if the water within the pipes freezes. Anti-freeze chemicals can be added to the water in the system to prevent freezing, and some fire sprinkler systems remain dry or empty (thus obviating any freezing) until a fire is detected.

Corrosion

Constant exposure to water within the system’s metal pipes and fixtures can lead to areas of rust or corrosion in the system that may present a condition for a catastrophic failure of the system. Annual inspections of the system are effective at identifying and moving to repair any faulty system components.

Mechanics

Faults in the sprinkler system may be the result of disuse or improper installation (overtightening connections, etc.). An experienced fire sprinkler installation company in Queens with solid references will stand by their work if these types of failures are discovered.

Human Error

Most sprinkler systems in Queens fail because of some sort of human interference with the system like tampering with the exposed fire sprinkler heads. Hanging material from the systems pipes, heads, or valves is a direct detriment to the system and may affect its performance when it is called upon. Bumps, strikes, or illegal adjustments to the system can compromise the sprinkler’s firefighting capabilities or cause the system to fail entirely.

All State Sprinkler Corp. are experts in installing, maintaining, and repairing sprinkler systems throughout Queens. We perform:

  • Fire sprinkler installation
  • Fire sprinkler inspection
  • Fire sprinkler repair
  • System tests
  • Emergency calls
  • FDNY violations