A Quick Guide to All the Types of Fire Sprinkler Heads
What are the different types of fire sprinkler heads?
Sprinkler heads for fire suppression are the most critical component of a fire sprinkler system. They are responsible for detecting and extinguishing fires in their early stages. There are four main types of fire sprinkler heads:
- Pendant sprinkler heads: These are the most common type of sprinkler heads. They hang down from the ceiling and appear most often in commercial and residential buildings.
- Upright sprinkler heads: Upright sprinkler heads point upwards, and warehouses and factories are the most common applications for these sprinkler heads.
- Sidewall sprinkler heads: Sidewall sprinkler heads are mounted on walls and are typically used in areas with limited ceiling space, such as hallways and stairwells.
- Concealed sprinkler heads: Concealed sprinkler heads are hidden inside the ceiling or walls and are installed most often in areas where aesthetics are a concern, such as hotels and museums.
Pendant sprinkler heads
The most common type of sprinkler head, the pendent sprinkler head, is typically used in commercial and residential buildings. They discharge water downward by design, creating a uniform spray pattern over the protected area. Pendant sprinkler heads are available in various finishes to match the décor of any room.
Upright sprinkler heads
Upright sprinkler heads point upwards, often in areas with high ceilings, such as warehouses and factories. They discharge water in a circular pattern, creating a uniform spray pattern over the protected area. Upright sprinkler heads are also available in various finishes to match the décor of any space.
Sidewall sprinkler heads
Sidewall sprinkler heads are mounted on walls and are typically used in areas with limited ceiling space, such as hallways and stairwells. They discharge water in a semicircular pattern, creating a uniform spray pattern over the protected area. Sidewall sprinkler heads are also available in various finishes to match the décor of any space.
Concealed sprinkler heads
Concealed sprinkler heads are hidden inside the ceiling or walls. They are typically found in areas where aesthetics are a concern, such as hotels and museums. They discharge water downward, creating a uniform spray pattern over the protected area. Concealed sprinkler heads are typically more expensive than other types, but they offer a more aesthetically pleasing appearance.
In addition to the four main types of fire sprinkler heads, there are also a variety of specialized sprinkler heads available, such as:
- Quick response sprinkler heads: Quick response sprinkler heads detect and extinguish fires more quickly than standard ones. They service high-risk areas, such as computer rooms and data centers.
- Extended coverage sprinkler heads: Extended coverage sprinkler heads cover a larger area than standard sprinkler heads. They function best in large open spaces like warehouses and factories.
- ESFR sprinkler heads: ESFR sprinkler heads extinguish fires involving Early Suppression Fast Response (ESFR) foam. They work best in facilities that store or use flammable liquids, such as chemical plants and refineries.
What is the difference between standard and QRFS heads?
Standard fire sprinkler heads detect and extinguish fires at a specific temperature, typically around 155 degrees Fahrenheit. Quick-response fire sprinkler heads detect and extinguish fires more quickly than standard ones. They are usually used in high-risk areas like computer rooms and data centers.
Quick-response sprinkler heads have several advantages over standard sprinkler heads, including:
- They can detect and extinguish fires more quickly, which can help reduce the damage caused by fires.
- They can be implemented in more applications, such as high-risk areas where standard sprinkler heads aren't as effective.
- They can help to reduce the amount of water required to extinguish a fire, which can help to reduce the cleanup costs associated with a fire.
However, quick-response sprinkler heads also have some disadvantages, including:
- They are more expensive than standard sprinkler heads.
- They are more susceptible to false alarms.
- They may not be as effective in extinguishing large fires as standard sprinkler heads.
Whether to use standard or quick-response fire sprinkler heads is a decision that should be made on a case-by-case basis, depending on the specific application.
When should I replace my fire sprinkler heads?
Fire sprinkler heads should be replaced every ten years or sooner if damaged or corroded. Having your fire sprinkler system inspected and tested annually by a qualified fire protection professional, like Red Beacon, is also essential.
What are the different types of fire sprinkler systems?
There are four main types of fire sprinkler systems:
- Wet sprinkler systems: Wet sprinkler systems are the most common type of fire sprinkler system. They are always filled with water, and the sprinkler heads are activated by heat. Wet sprinkler systems are typically used in commercial and residential buildings.
- Dry sprinkler systems: Dry sprinkler systems are used in areas where the temperature may drop below freezing, such as warehouses and unheated buildings. Dry sprinkler systems are filled with compressed air, and the sprinkler heads are activated by a heat-sensitive device that melts and releases the air pressure. Once the air pressure is released, water can flow into the system and activate the sprinkler heads.
- Preaction sprinkler systems: Preaction sprinkler systems are a type of dry sprinkler system that requires two events to occur before water is released into the system: a fire must be detected by a smoke detector or heat detector, and a heat-sensitive device must melt and release the air pressure. Preaction sprinkler systems are typically used in areas where water damage would be costly or disruptive, such as museums and computer rooms.
- Deluge sprinkler systems: Deluge sprinkler systems are used where a fire is likely to spread quickly, such as hangars and flammable liquid storage facilities. A heat or smoke detector activates deluge sprinkler systems, which discharge a large amount of water over the entire protected area.
How do fire sprinkler heads work?
Fire sprinkler heads are activated by heat. When the temperature in a room reaches a certain level, the sprinkler head will melt and release water. The water is then discharged into the room, where it helps to extinguish the fire.
Fire sprinkler heads are typically set to activate at around 155 degrees Fahrenheit. However, sprinkler heads are also available that are designed to activate at different temperatures, depending on the specific application.
What are the benefits of fire sprinkler systems?
Fire sprinkler systems offer several benefits, including:
- Protect people and property from fires: Fire sprinkler systems are one of the most effective ways to protect people and property.
- Help extinguish fires early: Fire sprinkler systems can help extinguish fires before they have a chance to spread.
- Reduce the damage caused by fires: Fire sprinkler systems can help reduce the damage caused by fires, which can help save businesses and homeowners money on insurance premiums and repairs.
What are the different types of fire sprinkler heads used in commercial buildings?
The most common types of fire sprinkler heads used in commercial buildings are pendent sprinkler heads, upright sprinkler heads, and sidewall sprinkler heads.
What are the different types of fire sprinkler heads used in residential buildings?
The most common fire sprinkler heads used in residential buildings are pendent and concealed sprinkler heads. The most common type of sprinkler head overall is the Pendant, and they are typically used in areas with high ceilings. Concealed sprinkler heads are hidden inside the ceiling or walls, typically used in areas where aesthetics are a concern.
How do I maintain my fire sprinkler system?
Having your fire sprinkler system inspected and tested annually by a qualified fire protection professional is essential. This will keep your system working correctly and ready to protect you and your property in a fire.
In addition to annual inspections and tests, there are a few things you can do to maintain your fire sprinkler system regularly:
- Check the sprinkler heads for signs of damage or corrosion.
- Make sure that the sprinkler heads are free of dust and debris.
- Check the system's water pressure to ensure it is within the proper range.
- Ensure the fire sprinkler system is drained adequately during freezing weather.
Use these simple tips to ensure that your fire sprinkler system is always ready to protect you and your property in the event of a fire.
No matter what type of sprinkler head you install on your property, ensure the system runs perfectly. To do that, team up with our Red Beacon Fire and Electric experts. We have decades of experience dealing with every situation imaginable. We'll work tirelessly to get you the best fire protection possible. Give us a call to learn more.