You may need to install a fire sprinkler system in a home or business you own.  Probably because state or local regulations are requiring you to do so, as certain types of businesses, buildings, or even residential expansions will have this as a requirement. Or possibly you don't, but you've been considering installing one in your business or home to protect from potential fire damage. Here are some things you might like to know about them. 

There are several different types of sprinkler systems that can be installed. You'll want to work with your local installation service on selecting the correct one for your needs because they have different applications. Some are better for cold locations where water can potentially freeze in the pipes, whereas some are better for libraries where water can be just as (if not more) damaging than fire to what's in the building. You should select what's best for your needs, and the installation service will be able to help walk you through this selection process. 

It's also important to remember that this is not the movies and that the sprinkler systems may not work the way you think they do. The type of response from systems you see in movies is generally exaggerated, and possibly a holdover from times when fire systems did act more like that. 

However, most systems are triggered entirely by heat alone, not smoke. Some of the different types of systems do use smoke alarms as well as reacting to heat, but the most common type does not. And when triggered, only the sprinkler or sprinklers that were triggered go off. This prevents widespread water damage to the property. Because the systems are designed to react quickly, most fires only need a minimal number of sprinklers to be contained and put out. 

In general, each sprinkler head has a little glass bulb containing a liquid that expands when the temperature reaches a certain level (this can vary depending on the manufacturer). When that bulb explodes, the sprinkler will be triggered. Because heat rises, and because most sprinkler systems are well dispersed, a fire can be stopped before it really gets going with a system like this. 

You also need to know that the systems must be pressurized. In order for each sprinkler to cover the square footage it's intended to, the water has to be a certain pressure. And you will need access to a stable water source in order to have your system work properly. 

If you need to know more, consult your local fire sprinkler system installers. 

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