How to Replace Fire Sprinkler Heads
A fire sprinkler system is an effective solution to help extinguish a fire in your home. It will help protect your family and your property as part of an overall safety program. However, for the sprinkler system to keep working effectively, the sprinkler heads must be in good working order. Over time the sprinkler heads may degrade or may be recalled because of a change in the law or regulations regarding sprinkler systems. Knowing how to change your sprinkler heads will not only keep you compliant but ensure that your home is protected. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Turn off the water supply to the sprinkler system. Find the water valve and turn the lever to the "Off" position to stop the water supply.
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Remove the cap or cage that protects the sprinkler head. Take a firm hold of the cap or cage and carefully unscrew and remove it to reveal the sprinkler head. Some caps can only be removed by popping them off.
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Unscrew and remove the old sprinkler head. Use the wrench to loosen the bolt holding the head onto the sprinkler base. Carefully unscrew the head, taking care not to damage the pipe attached to the base. If applicable, detach the nipple from the exposed pipe.
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Screw the new head into the sprinkler base. If applicable, attach the nipple onto the pipe. Carefully screw the new sprinkler head into the base. Tighten the bolt with the wrench to fully secure the sprinkler head. Repeat the process for each sprinkler head.
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Turn the water valve back to the "On" position to reactivate the water supply to the sprinkler system.
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Tips & Warnings
Place a bucket under the sprinkler to catch any runoff water.
Contact your local fire department. In some jurisdictions, only people who are authorized by the fire department are allowed to replace parts of a fire sprinkler system. The fire department will let you know if you can replace the sprinkler heads.
Schedule an inspection from a building inspector if required by your local county building codes.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit water sprinkler closeup in fountain image by MAXFX from Fotolia.com
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Comments
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Thomas L. Watt
Dec 29, 2010
!!!FAIL!!! You forgot to relieve the system pressure!!! By omitting this basic step you have created a disastrous scenario. The pressurized water exiting the pipe orifice at 50-100+ psi. could knock you off your ladder as it quickly floods the room, the rooms adjacent and of course any rooms below. Fortunately you won't be electrocuted because the electrical system was installed by qualified electricians and inspected by qualified inspectors. You don't do your own electrical work do you?
