Fire is one of the biggest risks to commercial properties, and your fire suppression and response options are incredibly important. It is no longer enough to simply have a fire extinguisher in New Jersey buildings.
Modern fire sprinkler systems are one of the most effective ways to prevent property damage and loss of life in the event of a fire. Sprinkler systems activate with no intervention and are heavily tested for accuracy and efficacy.
Unfortunately, there are still some common myths that are associated with this fire extinguisher alternative. Here are a few of the most common misconceptions about fire sprinkler systems:
Myth: Fire Sprinkler Systems Are Unaffordable
Many building owners think installing fire sprinklers is out of reach because of the cost. However, sprinkler systems are more affordable than you may think. The technology and installation methods have advanced over the years, and with these advancements, the cost has come down.
Installing a sprinkler system usually does not involve heavy construction work or architectural redesign like most commercial property owners think. In addition, some insurance companies even provide discounts on premiums for properties that have installed sprinkler systems.
Myth: When a Fire Breaks Out, All the Sprinkler Heads Go Off
It is a common misconception that if a flame is detected, the entire system of sprinklers goes off, soaking the entire building. This chaos is simply not how a sprinkler system works. Sprinkler systems are designed to be targeted, so each sprinkler head reacts independently to the room that it is in.
If you have a small fire that is contained in one room, you don’t have to worry about water damage in the rest of your building.
Myth: Sprinkler Water Damage Is Worse than Fire Damage
It is true that the water from sprinkler systems can cause damage to property and material items located at the property. However, sprinkler damage is almost always less severe than fire damage or damage resulting from a fire department response.
Without a sprinkler system, fires can quickly spread to multiple rooms of your property, resulting in a total loss in a matter of minutes.
Sprinkler water damage is often contained to a single area where the fire started and can be repaired for a fraction of the cost. In addition, sprinkler systems are much more targeted than fire department hoses which dispense as much as 125 gallons of water per minute.
Myth: Candles Can Set Off a Sprinkler System
Many property owners fear that their sprinkler system is too sensitive and may be set off by something as small as a bit of smoke from a candle. In reality, a sprinkler system is not activated by the presence of smoke. Instead, sprinkler heads detect the temperature of the room and activate between 130 and 165 degrees.
Things like burning candles and even smoking cannot set off a sprinkler system.
Myth: Sprinkler Systems Are Bulky and Ugly
Over the years, sprinkler heads have advanced to be smaller and blend into their surroundings. Even in the most modern and beautifully designed buildings, the vast majority of visitors do not even notice sprinkler heads. Sprinkler systems are a common feature in commercial buildings and blend right into any design.
Learn More About Sprinkler Systems for Your Building
Installing a sprinkler system for your building can be an excellent long-term investment. You’ll have total peace of mind knowing that your property is protected in the event of a fire.
ABC Fire & Safety is your trusted partner for fire suppression in the Kenilworth, NJ area. We provide leading fire suppression systems and are your top source when you need a fire extinguisher inspection in NJ. Give the team a call today to learn more about your sprinkler system options.
