Running a business in Illinois is not easy and there are so many things to know and do. One of the most important things you need to keep up with is fire safety, and your sprinkler system must be in top shape at all times. After all, you never know when you will need it. The pump is the heart of the system and a regular pump inspection is extremely important. Let’s look at the importance of your pump and why someone needs to check it on a regular basis.
Why Sprinkler Pumps?
Are pumps really necessary? There should be plenty of water pressure available to drive a sprinkler system, so why install pumping equipment? It’s possible you may not need a pumping system when there is a fire and your sprinklers are running. However, pumps work as backup systems for water pressure.
If your business were to have a fire during peak times of water demand, the water pressure could be too low to provide sufficient water to all the sprinklers and this could result in a catastrophe. Pumps are there to assist your water supply when it needs it.
Some pumping systems use self contained water supplies. These are important when a public water system in Illinois is not available or they can work in an “assist” capacity.
Pump Inspection Procedures
It starts with having the right check off forms. Make sure your forms have been approved by a fire department or fire engineer. Be certain these things are included in your form:
Pipes and Valves
Check all pipes to make sure there are no leaks. In addition, by-pass valves should be locked in the “open position”. You should also check pump suction and discharge pressures.
Engines
Your engine needs to start automatically and this feature must be checked about once each week. Before you test the engine, be sure to relieve pressure on the sprinkler system by opening the valve on a test line. Diesel motors should be run for at least half an hour. This helps to rid the components of moisture accumulation and keep all the internal parts lubricated. Electric motors do not need this kind of warm up time and ten minutes or so should be sufficient.
Additional Considerations for Pump Inspections
Pump room temperature should be noted and one should check water supplies and the pump controller unit too. Also make sure the pump cooling system and pressure relief valve are in good operating condition. The best way to ensure proper pump inspection is to hire a certified professional service in Illinois. They will make sure everything is in good working order.
