Commercial Fire Protection Service
Commercial Fire Pump Systems
Fire pumps boost water pressure and flow when a building’s water supply alone cannot meet its fire protection demand.
Overview
A fire pump increases water pressure or flow to meet the hydraulic demand of a sprinkler or standpipe system when the municipal water supply, or an on-site source, cannot deliver enough on its own. Fire pump design and installation is governed by NFPA 20, while ongoing testing falls under NFPA 25.
Fire pumps are common in taller buildings, buildings in areas with lower municipal water pressure, and occupancies with higher hazard classifications that demand more water than a typical supply can provide.
When a Fire Pump Is Needed
- Municipal water pressure is insufficient for the building’s hydraulic demand
- The building is tall enough that elevation loss reduces pressure at upper floors
- The occupancy’s hazard classification requires more water than the available supply provides
- A large standpipe system requires guaranteed pressure at the topmost hose connection
Fire Pump Components
A typical fire pump system includes a jockey pump, which maintains system pressure during normal conditions and prevents the main pump from cycling unnecessarily, a main fire pump driven by either an electric motor or a diesel engine, and a controller that monitors system pressure and starts the pump automatically when needed.
Fire Pump Testing
Diesel-driven fire pumps typically require a weekly no-flow, or “churn,” test to verify automatic start function and keep the engine, batteries, and fuel in good condition. Electric fire pumps are commonly tested on a similar no-flow basis. In addition, NFPA 25 requires an annual flow test to confirm the pump delivers its rated performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Electric vs. diesel fire pump: which is better?
Each has trade-offs. Electric pumps are generally simpler to maintain but depend on reliable utility power or a backup generator. Diesel pumps operate independently of utility power but require more involved fuel and engine maintenance.
How often is a fire pump tested?
Diesel pumps typically require weekly no-flow testing, with an annual flow test for all fire pumps regardless of driver type, per NFPA 25.
Does every commercial building need a fire pump?
No. A fire pump is only required when the available water supply cannot meet the hydraulic demand of the building’s sprinkler or standpipe system on its own.
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