A fire pump is a vital component of fire protection systems used in high rise and industrial buildings. Fire pumps are used in situations where the building’s normal water supply doesn’t provide the amount of water pressure needed to activate the sprinklers throughout the building during an emergency. The fire pump draws in additional water and supplies it at a pressure high enough to ensure the sprinklers work as needed. Fire pumps also fill hose standpipes – the point where fire fighters would attach hoses in order to fight the fire.
New York City requires that all fire pumps be tested regularly. There are two types of fire pump tests you’ll want to know about. The first type of test, which needs to happen on a monthly basis, is known as a churn or no-flow test. During this test, the pump must be run for at least ten minutes. Suction and discharge pressure gauge readings must be recorded. The entire system’s operation and condition must be inspected. The goal of the churn test is to ensure the fire pump is ready to operate as needed, when needed.
The second type of fire pump test you need to know about is the annual fire pump flow test. Understand that this is a mandatory test that has to occur every year. During this test, hoses are attached to the fire pump, and the system is operated. The pressure is recorded during operation. If the results of the fire pump test are not to specification, your New York City plumber can perform the needed fire pump repairs.
If fire pump repair is not a viable option, it is time to have your New York City plumber perform a fire pump replacement. Fire pump installation is a very precise process, so you’ll want to choose a highly experienced plumber to do this work.
