Comments on: Does This Meet Code 3

By: Tim Rogers

Tim Rogers — Mon, 29 Dec 2008 15:57:07 +0000

Seems to me, that ANY leak in a sprinkler system, especially the heads, should scream that something is wrong. Whether it’s the wrong anti-freeze or just a leak, the leak obviously proves the system needs to be examined to see that it meets the pressure-test standard. While the system may meet code for design (I’d have to see more of it,) it has an operational problem that needs to be addressed. Let’s face it, besides what the code requires, the selling point for a fire sprinkler system is that it’s a silent, “invisible” watch system. If it leaks, it’s not “invisible.”

By: Insurance LC Rep

Insurance LC Rep — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 01:39:35 +0000

So do you think they have a RPZ where the sprinkler system connects to the public water supply? I am sure the expansion chamber is listed for sprinkler systems and calculations have been completed and it is the correct size for the quantity of antifreeze in the system. Another quality installation, got to love it!

By: Mike Wheeler

Mike Wheeler — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 16:40:50 +0000

CPVC piping is lsted for wet sprinkler systems only, has temperature limitations and cannot be used for ordinary hazard or extra hazard areas (NFPA 13.3-3.5)
The expansion chamber should be between the supply and the anti-freeze system to allow for thermal expasion of the anti-freeze. (NFPA 13.4-5.3.2). The expansion chamber in this system appears to be located between the riser and the drain.

By: Mike Wheeler

Mike Wheeler — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 15:59:07 +0000

CPVC piping has temperature limitations and is listed for only wet pipe systems and is not listed for ordinary hazard or extra ordinary haw=zard locations (NFPA 13.3-3.5). The expansion chamber is only connected to the drain and should be placed between the anti-freeze piping and the water supply to allow for thermal expansion of the anti-freeze (NFPA (13.4-5.3.2).

By: Chris

Chris — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 14:19:24 +0000

Most likely the contractor used the wrong type of antifreeze solution. CPVC only allows clean glycerine/water solution, no Glycols.