PROBLEMS WITH NFPA 13-R & 13-D FIRE SPRINKLER SYSTEMS

A BULLETIN ISSUED by the NFPA calls for anti-freeze to be removed from all residential sprinkler systems. The problem is when an incorrect mixture of anti-freeze solutions is used, the discharging fire sprinkler can feed the fire. An incident involved a grease fire in a kitchen when the fire sprinkler discharged and the high concentration anti-freeze solution made contact with the fire. There was one fatality and one serious burn injury. The problem is that if the solution
concentration is above 50%, then the risk of it contributing to the fire is increased. NFPA will issue a formal correction procedure before winter. Until then, it is recommended that you drain all anti-freeze from your residential system.

ONE SOLUTION IS to bury the exposed plastic piping in insulation to protect it from freezing. Another method is the installation of UL-listed heat tracing system that is listed for “fire sprinkler piping”. Sprinkler piping must be kept to a minimum of 40 deg, F. to prevent freezing.