Fire Sprinkler Inspection and Testing

The National Fire Protection Association recommends that you have your fire sprinkler inspected at least four times a year by a knowledgeable and experienced fire sprinkler professional. However, fire sprinkler inspection is so important that the Houston, Texas (TX) fire code recommends monthly inspection. If it is time for your fire sprinkler inspection, call Kauffman Co. today.

Fire sprinkler inspection procedure

At Kauffman Co., all of our fire sprinkler technicians are licensed by the State of Texas to perform fire sprinkler inspections. During a routine fire sprinkler inspection, your Kauffman Co. technician will perform a visual check to make sure:

• Meter size matches plans
• Shut off valves control sprinkler riser
• Underground piping matches plans
• Bell activates properly
• Static pressure at riser meets or exceeds calculations
• Flow test works properly, no partially closed valves
• Riser is properly strapped
• Sprinkler heads match plans and are not painted or damaged
• Sprinkler heads are not obstructed

Fire sprinkler testing procedure

The Houston fire code mandates that you have your fire sprinkler system tested once a year. During a fire sprinkler test from Kauffman Co., one of our certified trained technicians will test the alarm reaction and the flow of water through your system. We also test each control valve by exercising it through its full range of motion, then returning it to its normal position to checking for valve seizure, broken seams, leakage or any other condition that might impair the valve’s proper operation. The valves will then be reset and relocked where appropriate. At the end of the test, Kauffman Co. will document the results and maintain the records in case they need to be provided to a fire code official.

Other times to have a fire sprinkler inspection

In addition to routine monthly check ups, your fire sprinkler system should be inspected every time there is a change in your building’s environment. Your fire sprinkler system is designed to meet very specific conditions, and when those conditions change, it is to make sure the sprinkler will still be able to do its job. You should plan to have a professional fire sprinkler inspection if you have:

• Changed or added a backflow preventer or water meter
• Changed the occupancy or use of your building
• Made any remodels to your building, such as adding walls, partitions, or additions
• Experienced a change in water supplies (for water conservation or any other reasons)

If you need a monthly fire sprinkler inspection, if it is time for your annual test or if you have made significant changes in your building, call Kauffman Co. today. Our certified trained fire sprinkler systems experts can perform a full inspection and testing of your fire sprinkler to make sure that it is always operating at its optimum level to keep you and your employees safe. Don’t wait until a fire hits before you realize that your fire sprinkler system is faulty – if your building is located in the Houston, Texas (TX) area, call Kauffman Co. today!