Proper installation and ongoing maintenance of fire protection systems is always important, but proactively preparing for freezing temperatures is even more critical.
When temperatures drop, fire sprinkler systems can potentially malfunction by not delivering the water needed in a fire emergency, or even burst if the pipes are frozen. The best way to keep fire sprinkler systems working is through proper installation and preventative maintenance.
Experts from BlazeMaster Fire Protection Systems – the most specified nonmetallic fire protection system in the world – have the following installation tips to keep fire sprinkler systems working and buildings safe this winter:
- Make sure pipes are installed correctly and can accommodate for expansion and contraction. Pipes will contract in cold conditions and expand once the building is heated. This stress on the pipes can be reduced by incorporating a change of direction to accommodate movement of the pipe. Expansion loops and offsets can also address this issue. BlazeMaster CPVC provides more detailed information about piping thermal expansion and contraction.
- Store pipe and fittings in a covered, warm area and keep all the materials in the same place to ensure the pipe and fittings are the same temperature before joining. If the pipe and fittings have been exposed to the elements, remove ice, snow, and moisture before cutting and installing.
- Always store your solvent cement per manufacturer’s instructions and never outside of the recommended temperature range to prevent gelling or thickening in cold temperatures.
- Use a fine-toothed saw or wheel cutter instead of a ratchet cutter. Ratchet cutters put pressure on the pipe that can cause cracking, so use a wheel cutter when installing BlazeMaster fire sprinkler systems – specifically one with wheels designed for use with plastic pipes.
- Cold weather means longer cure times. Plan ahead and always refer to the manufacturer’s manual regarding cure times before pressurizing the system.
Once your BlazeMaster CPVC pipes are properly installed, conduct year-round maintenance with a professional. Keep your building at the appropriate temperature and look for cracks and leaks that may impact performance. New and existing sprinkler systems can be protected against cold weather with UL-listed, factory premixed freezemaster antifreeze, which can prevent it from freezing and protect against costly corrosion.
By following these tips, keep your installation plans moving during cold weather to ensure your system continues to perform as designed to protect people and property.
BlazeMaster Fire Protection Systems offers a Free Online Installation Training Program for those interested in learning the basics of BlazeMaster CPVC piping installation. Work through our training modules at your own pace, learn detailed best practices and test your knowledge. Upon completion, and at Lubrizol’s discretion, you will be awarded a BlazeMaster online installation training card.
Learn more at BlazeMaster.com.
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