Fire Pump Testing in Houston

If your Houston building has a fire sprinkler system, it also has a fire pump. This is the component that ensures adequate water pressure builds up to douse the flames. Without a properly functioning fire pump, nothing but a drizzle of water will exit the sprinkler heads, which doesn’t do much good against a quickly growing blaze.

Regular fire pump testing is important to ensure your sprinkler system works the way you expect it to in case of a fire. Otherwise, the investment you made when you installed fire sprinklers is worthless!

To schedule fire pump testing at your Houston business or facility, contact Kauffman Co. online or call us today at (713) 893-1090. 

Why Do Fire Pumps Require Testing?

For a system that sits dormant a vast majority of the time, it’s easy to forget about your sprinkler system and the corresponding fire pump. However, regular tests are necessary to spot and correct corrosion, intentional tampering, accidental carelessness and damage caused in other ways. By taking the time to perform fire pump testing, you enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing the system will function properly and protect your building from fire.

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How Often Does a Fire Pump Need To Be Tested? 

Regular testing and maintenance of fire pumps is vital to ensure their optimal performance during a fire emergency. These tests should be conducted on a weekly, monthly, semiannual, and annual basis to ensure the pump runs smoothly and reliably when needed. By adhering to this testing schedule, businesses can proactively identify any issues, address them promptly, and ensure that their fire pumps are ready to respond effectively in the event of a fire.

Weekly Fire Pump Testing

Checking the status of your fire pump every week may seem a bit much, but in just 10 minutes, you can tell whether the fire pump needs attention from a professional technician or not. To perform a weekly “dry run,” follow these steps:

  • Open a test line: This simulates the pressure drop that occurs when a fire sprinkler opens. The pump should power on as soon as you open the line.
  • Test the pump drivers: If your pump is powered by an electric motor, run it for five or 10 minutes to check for any signs of trouble. Pumps driven by a combustion engine need 30 minutes to warm up, so run yours for at least this long.
  • Check the pressure relief valves: As the pump runs, it should discharge water through the circulation relief valve and into an open drain. However, water shouldn’t pass through the pressure relief valves. These are only designed to open if the pressure inside the system gets too high.
  • Check the pump temperature: Make sure the casings and bearings aren’t overheating as the pump operates. The room temperature where the pump is located should also be cool, between 40 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Check the water supply: Make sure dry conditions haven’t reduced the water supply and that the suction tanks aren’t obstructed.

Monthly Fire Pump Testing

Once a month while conducting your weekly fire pump test, also check that the pump’s battery is properly charged.

Semiannual Fire Pump Testing

Every six months, in addition to the above tests, check the oil filter and replace the cartridge if necessary.

Professional Annual Fire Pump Testing

Make it a priority each year to have a Kauffman Co. technician professionally test your fire pump. Our technicians are licensed to perform in-depth tests that ensure your fire sprinklers will work properly in a fire emergency. We can perform the test alongside other fire protection system inspections and maintenance required by Houston fire code.

Choose Kauffman Co. for Fire Pump Testing

With over 35 years of experience, we are the go-to fire protection company for Houston-area businesses. Our fire pump tests are thorough and give you the peace of mind you need to operate your business safely every day.

For more information about fire pumps, sprinkler systems, or other components of your fire protection system, contact Kauffman Co. online or call us at (713) 893-1090.

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services from Kauffman
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