To protect customers and employees in a fire emergency, nearly every commercial building has fire sprinkler systems today. To assist in the protection of facilities, several types of sprinkler systems are in existence. The dry fire sprinkler system and a wet fire sprinkler system are the two most common types. For your building’s unique needs, and for the best environment, you want the appropriate fire sprinkler system installed. But between the two, how do you know which is right for your requirements: wet or dry fire sprinkler systems?

Let’s take a look at these two systems and how they differ. If you’re still unsure as to which system fits your purposes best, speak with a qualified fire protection professional. They can advise you as to which system will be most appropriate.

Dry Pipe Sprinkler Systems

In a dry pipe sprinkler system, water is held back by nitrogen or pressurized air in the pipes to which sprinkler heads are connected. If a fire occurs, it is extinguished when the valve opens and allows water out. For this to happen, the pipe pressure must drop. In an environment with temperatures at 40°F or below, this type of system works far better than a wet system. This is because no water is held within the pipes.

Wet Pipe Sprinkler Systems

The sprinkler heads connect to pipes within which pressurized water can be found in a wet pipe sprinkler system. To extinguish a fire, the sprinkler system activates automatically when a fire is detected. Little maintenance is required on this reliable fire sprinkler system. Due to its optimal protection and ease of installation, it’s a popular choice. Be advised, however, that all environments are not suitable for the use of a wet system. In areas where the temperature falls below 40°F, for example, because the pipes are always filled with water, the wet system would not be a good match.

Wrap Up

Here’s your takeaway…

Dry Systems:

  • Water delivery is initially delayed from the sprinkler heads 
  • Due to the sprinkler system’s complexity, increased maintenance costs
  • Installation cost is also higher

Wet Systems:

  • For areas that hold sensitive equipment, possibly not a good fit
  • Maintenance costs are lower
  • Should a pipe spring a leak, there would be the potential of increased risk to property, inventory, etc.

Sprinkler Systems for Your Business

Does your place of business utilize industrial facility, industrial, and/or commercial fire detection and fire sprinkler system installation and design? If so, consider working with ASCO Fire. We can help make sure that you and your entire fire protection setup are in compliance with all applicable fire code requirements. We’re able to do so because we offer all-inclusive engineering services. Our clients book our assistance for fire pumps, fire sprinkler systems, maintenance/testing/inspection services, fire alarm systems, fire extinguishers, and more.

Some of the areas we cover are as follows:

  • Middlesex County
  • Hudson County
  • Mercer County
  • Essex County 
  • Somerset County
  • Warren County
  • Union County
  • Sussex County
  • Bergen County
  • Passaic County
  • Morris County
  • Monmouth County

Contact us today by calling 973-633-7300 or by emailing us to find out more.