How do I go about getting a fire sprinkler system?
If your home builder is not familiar with contractors that install residential fire sprinklers, you still have several options.
Look in your local Yellow Pages under “Sprinklers, Fire”
Contact the Canadian Automatic Sprinkler Association (see Links) for names of residential sprinkler contractors
If you have a computer and like to “surf the net”, an increasing number of contractors have Web pages describing their capabilities
Any professional fire sprinkler contractor can install these systems, but for the best results look for a contractor that specializes in residential fire sprinkler systems or one that has a residential sprinkler installation unit within the company.
What should I do if my home builder or architect has questions or says I don’t need fire sprinklers?
Most fire chiefs around the country will recommend fire sprinklers, as they have witnessed first-hand their benefit to life and property safety. Some, but not all, architects and builders are educated, at least partially, about residential fire sprinklers. If your builder and architect are not familiar with these systems, have them contact the organizations below for information.
Any of the organizations listed in the Members section
Canadian Automatic Sprinkler Association
Home Fire Sprinkler Coalition
How much should I expect to pay for my fire sprinkler system?
If installed during new home construction, home fire sprinklers often cost no more that 1 to 2 percent of the total building cost, which is about what you would pay for an upgrade in carpeting. The investment in your family’s fire protection may be slightly lower or higher, depending on the location and complexity of the home.
How long should installation take? Can other construction work continue while the sprinklers are going in?
Again, fire sprinkler installations are like electricity, plumbing or any other operational systems in your home. The total time involved will depend on the size and complexity of your home.
Certain portions of the system (i.e. water piping) are more easily and cost-effectively installed in the earliest stages of construction, while the actual finish (i.e. installing the fire sprinkler devices, testing the system, etc.) will take place after the house is framed. Fire sprinkler systems are often completed prior to the other systems in your home, but other mechanical trades may work alongside the sprinkler contractor if necessary.
How do I take care of my fire sprinkler system?
A residential fire sprinkler system is basically maintenance free. The only testing required on a regular basis is opening the drain/test valve to check the alarm operation. The rest of the system is designed to operate properly for 20 years or more without any maintenance. Some basic precautions to safeguard your fire sprinkler system are:
Avoid painting or otherwise covering the fire sprinkler devices, as that will affect their sensitivity to heat.
Do not hang decorations, plants or other objects from the sprinkler or pipe
Are fire sprinklers an eyesore for a home?
Sprinkler systems in homes are fairly inconspicuous. They can be installed flush with walls or ceiling, or hidden with decorative covers.
What if my home will not be connected to a public water supply?
Homes can be protected by automatic fire sprinklers in even the most remote areas. Several manufacturers offer self-contained water tanks to supply residential fire sprinkler systems. These tanks are designed to fit in your basement or other storage area of the home, and they hold enough water to comply with the National Fire Protection Association Standard 13D, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems in One- and Two-Family Dwellings and Manufactured Homes.
Will my insurance premiums go up?
No. Generally insurance rates will go down because fire sprinklers will keep damage low. Shop around; the savings vary by insurance company.
Can I retrofit fire sprinklers into my existing home?
It is possible. Watch these videos to view the process of how this man installs a fire sprinkler system into his 35 year old house.
