Installing a Fire Sprinkler Alarm

A fire sprinkler alarm is part of a fire sprinkler system that is one of the active fire protection measures consisting of a water supply system. Fire sprinkler alarms are a must when it comes to fire protection. These alarms can alert people to the presence of fire and will hopefully give them enough time to evacuate the premises safely. The sprinkler on the other hand, works together with the alarm by putting out the fire even before the fire department arrives.

Step 1 – Choose the Type of Sprinkler System

Decide on a type of fire sprinkler system that is compatible with your home type. This will require you to consult with a professional and/or your local fire department.

Step 2 – Choose the Location

Make a decision on where you want your fire sprinkler alarm installed. It may not be advisable to install sprinkler alarms in all the rooms of your home and so it is important to determine the locations where the sprinklers will likely have the best impact to prevent fire damage.

Step 3 – Check Local Regulations

Find out about local codes that need to be met or exceeded when it comes to fire sprinkler alarms.

Step 4 – Finalize the Process

Establish how the sprinkler system pipes will be run and where within a room the sprinkler heads are to be installed. Make an access plan for every room, even those rooms that won’t have any pipe installations.

Step 5 – Determine Sprinkler Requirements

Determine if the city’s water pressure is enough to meet the fire alarm sprinkler requirements. If not, the system needs to be hooked up with a controlled water source such as a well or a water storage tank with a sufficient pumping system. Plan on how you aim to connect the sprinkler pipes to the source of water.

Step 6 – Determine the Number of Pipes

Determine how much pipe you need based on your sprinkler layout. Include the plans for joint connections for manipulating pipes at an angle.

Step 7 – Start Installing

Start in the area where the piping is to be attached to the city water system or water tank, working your way through the room where the sprinkler is to be installed. Cut out sections on the wall or ceiling where the new piping will run through.

Step 8 – Install the CPVC Pipe

Position and install the CPVC pipe through the main prepared area so that the piping system can be attached correctly to the water system.

Step 9 – Connect the Pipelines

Start connecting the pipelines through walls and ceilings as planned. Use joint connectors for angles and use tees and elbow fittings when necessary. Check all connections and ensure that these are watertight.

Step 10 - Place a Nipple

Put in a nipple at the end of each pipe that is to be attached to the sprinkler head. Apply pipe sealant on the sprinkler head before it is connected to the pipe. Make use of a cage or cap over the sprinkler head if the system installed advises that method.

Step 11 – Place Insulation

Put insulation over the pipes if they are likely to be exposed to elements such as cold temperatures below for which they are made. Placing a mesh or aluminum material over the insulation can provide the right amount of protection.

Step 12 – Test the System

Test the system with a professional. Repair any leaks. If all tests go well, replace the wall, ceiling or flooring that was removed in order to lay the piping and finish following standard construction practices.