How to Install a Fire Sprinkler System in Your House
Your home is a significant investment that deserves every measure to stay safe from fire incidents. In case of a fire outbreak, the last thing you want is to waste precious minutes waiting for firefighters to arrive, while the flames ravage your property.
With a proper fire sprinkler installation, you can gain control over the fire during the early stages when it matters the most.
Also, fire sprinklers help you buy precious minutes while you wait for the firefighters to arrive.
Read below for a brief guide on how you can install a fire sprinkler system in your house.
Choose the residential sprinkler system to use
There are primarily two major residential sprinkler systems that you can use for your home fire installation. They include-:
Standalone fires sprinkler systems – these use a separate plumbing network different from the home’s plumbing network. Standalone systems are usually more complex in installation and maintenance, and unless you are an expert in plumbing and fire system installation, this is a route you will always want to avoid.
Multipurpose fire sprinkler systems – this fire sprinkler system is integrated with the home’s main plumbing system. Since both systems share the same pipes, multipurpose fire sprinkler systems come with reduced installation costs, and they are also easy to maintain.
Hiring a pro or DIY
After you have decided on the residential fire sprinkler system to use, the next step is to decide if you want to hire qualified professionals to work on it or if you want to do the installation by yourself.
The former is always the preferred choice by most homeowners. This is because the right professionals will take less time, and they will ensure proper installation for maximum efficiency when the need for use arises.
However, if you feel confident enough about your DIY skills, then you can undertake the installation by yourself. If you opt for DIY installation, then below are some of the steps you are likely to follow-:
Tools and materials needed
For a successful installation, some of the tools and materials you will need include a drill, CPVC piping, screws, hole saw attachment, sealant, stud finder, and pipe straps.
Step One: Check the water pressure
It is recommended that your home water pressure is above 100psi for successful sprinkler system installation.
If the pressure isn’t sufficient, you should think about installing a water storage tank from where you will pump water to the sprinkler system.
Step Two: Pipe installation
This step involves opening walls and drilling through the joists and studs to accommodate your piping systems.
If you opted for the multipurpose fire sprinkler system, then the work at this stage will be minimal. However, if you went for the standalone fire system installation, you may need a contractor to help with opening up the walls.
Step Three: Installation of the sprinkler heads
With pipes and connectors in place, and the wall holes already concealed, the next step is to connect the sprinkler heads.
Pressurize and perform a leak test
With everything sealed and connected, you have to pressurize the system and then test it for leaks. This is how you will know if the system is ready for use. It will also let you know if there are leaks that may lead to serious structural damages.
Bottom line
Hopefully, the guide above provides you with the insights you need about fire system installation. However, if you find it overwhelming, don’t shy away from using the help of qualified fire sprinkler system installation experts.
