Allied Fire & Safety

Dry Pipe Systems

A dry pipe system is one in which the pipes are filled with pressurized air rather than water. The air uses a mechanical advantage to hold back a device known as a dry pipe valve. In the event of a fire, a sprinkler head operates that air rushing out of the piping, releasing pressure on the dry pipe valve. As the air pressure in the piping decreases the mechanical advantage in the valve is diminished, the valve opens and water rushes to the open head and onto the fire. Their main advantage is the ability to use dry pipe systems in areas where freezing is possible.

Some of the disadvantages are increased complexity, higher installation and maintenance cost and increased response time.

At each inspection we will perform a simulated trip test during with a full flow trip test every three years followed by draining of all low points. Reset interior of dry pipe valve, check pressure settings and operation of air compressor unit, drain low point drains. Conduct system main drain test, weather permitting. Check waterflow detectors, tamper switches, alarm switches and audible alarm devices. Visually inspect all external components of system including control valves, drain valves, sprinkler heads and piping. Check and lubricate all fire department connections. Perform minor adjustments, as necessary. Prepare and forward directly to Owner and Local Fire Official, a comprehensive report of system condition.

Owners Tip - It is your responsibility to periodically drain all low point drains to avoid potential damage caused by freezing conditions. Due to several factors (such as the system tripping after our monthly maintenance) Allied Fire & Safety Equipment Co., Inc. cannot be held liable for freezing conditions even after this work is performed. Allied Fire & Safety Equipment Co., Inc. will not be held responsible for any damage as a result of freezing conditions due to improperly pitched pipe and/or lack of periodical draining.

How can we help?

Allied Fire & Safety Equipment Co., Inc. now offers a monthly Dry System Freeze-Up Preventative Maintenance Program whereby all of the low point drains are emptied, suspected cold areas in the structure are inspected and general condition of the valves, gauges, compressors and piping are examined. Due to several factors (such as the system tripping after our monthly maintenance) Allied Fire & Safety Equipment Co., Inc. cannot be held liable for freezing conditions even after this work is performed. As stated, this is a Preventative Maintenance program only.

Inspection Frequency: quarterly