Fire Sprinkler System Maintenance

Checklist
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) sets the standards for fire protection
systems and measures in commercial buildings. When it comes to your fire sprinkler
system, the NFPA 25 is the standard for inspection, testing, and maintenance of water-
based fire protection systems and “compliance helps maximize integrity to avoid
failure and ensure fast, effective response in a fire emergency.”
If you’re looking for a maintenance or inspection checklist for your fire sprinkler,
look no further. Below, we‘ve provided a breakdown of maintenance steps you should
take with your fire sprinkler systems. If you ever have concerns or questions about
fire sprinkler maintenance or inspection, you should contact a local licensed fire
protection company.
WEEKLY INSPECTION CHECKLIST FOR SPRINKLER SYSTEMS
 Gauges – the gauges on dry, pre-action, and deluge systems should be inspected weekly. In this
step, you’re looking for a normal read on air and water pressure.
 Control valves – you should check these weekly to ensure that they are free from leaks, locked,
properly sealed, and in the open position. Proper signage should identify what part of your
sprinkler they control.
MONTHLY INSPECTION CHECKLIST FOR SPRINKLER SYSTEMS
 Gauges (on wet pipe systems) – you should check that the water pressure is maintained and that
there is no sign of physical damage.
 Alarm valves – these should be externally inspected each month.
QUARTERLY INSPECTION CHECKLIST FOR SPRINKLER SYSTEMS
 Alarm devices – every three months, check that these are free from physical damage.
 Hydraulic nameplate – check that this is secured to the sprinkler riser and legible.
ANNUAL INSPECTION CHECKLIST FOR SPRINKLER SYSTEMS
The NFPA requires that you have a licensed technician inspect your fire sprinkler
system annually to keep your building safe and up to code. The technician will inspect
and maintain all components of your fire sprinkler system, including:
 Gauges
 Control valves
 Alarm devices
 Hangers/bracing
 Pipes and fittings
 Sprinkler heads
 Antifreeze solution
 Pre-action/deluge valves
 Backflow prevention components
 Main drain
 Water flow alarm
They will also check for any necessary repairs or obstructions that would prevent the
system from protection your building’s life and property in the event of a fire
emergency.
OTHER FREQUENCIES FOR SPRINKLER SYSTEMS MAINTENANCE
There are other components of your fire sprinkler system that require certain
maintenance and replacement at different intervals:
 Gauges – gauges should be replaced or tested every five years by a licensed fire sprinkler
technician to determine the calibration.
 Sprinkler heads – these should be replaced every 50 years. If your sprinkler heads are “fast
response,” they should be replaced every 20 years.
 Valves – the sprinkler valves should be internally inspected every five years.
If your fire sprinkler system is ever damaged or requires repair, regular maintenance
should not be your solution. Call a professional fire protection company—they will be
able to fix your system and ensure that your building remains safe and up to code.