Fire sprinkler systems
Fire sprinklers are an increasing necessity in larger modern buildings following several high-profile fires in the last few years. They provide protection from fire and, most importantly, extend the time residents can safely get out of the building in an emergency
How do fire sprinklers work?
During the outbreak of fire each sprinkler head activates independently when the temperature of the ceiling reaches 74 degrees Celsius, this triggers the deflector plate to fall down from the ceiling and activate the water flow towards the flames.
Fire sprinkler systems essentially comprises of a water pump (and if necessary, a tank) feeding into sprinkler nozzles which are automatically activated when the temperature in the room reaches a set temperature. For a clear illustration of the effectiveness of a fire sprinkler, see this video.
They can be tailored to your property and layout and have many benefits.
It ensures the perfect solution to passive fire protection such as unpleasant fire doors and allows you to create your dream open plan home. Our sprinkler systems are commissioned to BS95251 and fully certified to ensure required coverage for building control.
The process
Once a project is confirmed and we have your site drawings we will action your bespoke sprinkler design to be checked and signed off by you and/or building control. Our team is happy to liaise directly with building control to answer any questions and queries directly to make your life easier. Our experienced Design team will tailor the system to your space, lighting layouts and b
Ready to send us your design drawings?
The installation of fire sprinklers
Our trained engineers will lay the pipework and fix the heads in their final location. This is preferably done while ceilings are still open and plasterboard has not been fixed/ plastered. In circumstances where ceilings are not open, called ‘Retrofitting’ we can often carry out the works by lifting floorboards on the floors above. On completion of this stage, a pressure test will be completed to ensure all fittings are tight and secure, the system can then be connected to the water supply.
We then issue a Pressure and Flow Report to confirm the system is testing to the required standard. A connection to the properties fire alarm system will be required by the client’s electrician. Should your system require a tank and/or pump, this will normally be installed at the end of the installation.
On completion of your project, when ceilings are plastered etc, we will install the cover plates to the sprinkler heads and carry out our final commissioning test.
Commissioning
Once the installation is complete and tested, we will issue you with handover documentation including:
- ‘As fitted’ Drawings to confirm locations of pipework etc
- Pressure and low reports
- Pump/ tank specs
- Compliance certificate
Maintenance
We offer a full service and maintenance contract for systems they install, giving you peace of mind, as well as ensuring that your sprinkler system is keeping to the standard BS 9251 required.
This Service and Maintenance contract includes:
- Full Annual service
- Renewed Certificate of compliance
- Reminder service to notify you when a service is due
- Access to our 24-hour Emergency phone line
Sprinkler System FAQs
Do I need a sprinkler system?
Fire suppression requirements are increasing – especially with several high-profile fires in recent years. You’ll be able to find out the necessary coverage required from your Building Control officer, but a few common examples are below:
- House with a proposed open plan layout on one or more floors
- Installing a loft conversion or basement
- All new buildings over 30m
How many sprinkler heads will I need?
Each project is assessed individually and can vary due to many factors. If you drop us a message via our contact page, we can quickly assess your requirements and provide the advice you’re after
Do you offer maintenance for sprinkler systems?
Yes, we currently only offer maintenance to Sprinkler systems which London Fire Sprinklers have previously fitted. When your system has been commissioned, we will contact
How much sprinkler coverage do I need?
The ultimate answer to whether you need full or partial coverage will be dictated by your local building control officer. However, unless they approve partial coverage the British standard requires coverage throughout the property excluding bathrooms and storage areas under a certain size.
Will I need a tank and pump for my sprinkler system?
This depends on the pressure and flow of your water system but 98% of the time you will need a pump for your Sprinkler system.
Water Tanks are only necessary for properties where the pressure and flow of the water main
If necessary, we can attend the site and assess your pressure and flow rates. Please contact us to book a site visit.
What stage of a build will the sprinkler system be fitted?
The first fix stage is ideally started when ceilings are up but not boarded over so there is access to the ceiling space for our pipework.
The 2nd fix stage takes place after ceilings are closed and finished, we will then attend site to fix in sprinkler/mist heads/ pumps/ tanks etc.
