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How to Design a Sprinkler System

The NFPA 13 standard from the National Fire Protection Association is the main design reference for automatic sprinkler systems. When state and municipal governments determine the requirements for fire sprinklers in their codes, these are normally based on NFPA 13. There are also two versions of NFPA 13 for the residential sector:

  • NFPA 13D applies for one- and two-family dwellings, and also for manufactured homes.
  • Automatic sprinkler systems in Group R occupancies shall be permitted to be installed throughout in accordance with NFPA 13R where the Group R occupancy meets all of the following conditions:
    1. NFPA 13R applies for low-rise residential buildings up to 4 stories above grade (60 feet).
    2. The floor level of the highest story is 30 feet or less above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access.
    3. The floor level of the lowest story is 30 feet or less below the lowest level of fire department vehicle access.

How do Fire Sprinklers Work

The purpose of sprinklers is to quench fires automatically as soon as they start, without giving them a chance to spread. Contrary to popular belief, fire sprinklers only release water directly above an active fire, and not over the entire room as shown in movies and TV series.

  • Sprinklers have a heat-sensitive seal, which opens with the hot air that rises above an active fire. This allows a localized response, preventing the release of water over areas that are not burning.
  • In most applications, automatic sprinklers are not designed with a smoke response mechanism. This is to avoid accidental opening of sprinklers, since there are many sources of smoke other than fire incidents.

For example, if someone smokes inside a building, the corresponding smoke alarms will activate. However, fire sprinklers stay closed because there is no heat. Water damage is a common concern among property owners who are required to install a sprinkler system. However, this is due to the wrong image of sprinklers in movies and TV series.

The localized action of the sprinkler system is especially useful in offices with computers, data centers and other IT equipment.

  • If a fire incident occurs, water only falls above the affected area.
  • IT equipment is only exposed to water if it is located in the burning area, but in these cases, it would be destroyed anyway.
  • Therefore, it makes sense to use fire sprinklers even when electronic devices are present.

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How Many Types of Sprinkler Systems are There

Types of sprinkler systems permissible by NFPA 13, Standard for the Installation are-

Dry Pipe System

In a dry pipe system, water is present only up to the dry valve location, while the piping from the dry valve to the sprinkler outlet is filled with pressurized air or nitrogen. These systems are ideal for spaces subjected to freezing temperatures (below 4°C) and unheated areas like open garages and parking lots. However, they have higher installation and maintenance costs and a slight delay between sprinkler operation and water flow, which limits their size. Despite these limitations, dry pipe systems are invaluable in preventing frozen pipes and ensuring reliable fire protection.

Application-

Parking garages, Unheated warehouses, Commercial freezers, Refrigerated coolers, Outdoor canopies, and Exposed landings.

Wet Pipe System

Wet pipe systems are the most common, cost-effective, and reliable type of fire sprinkler system. They are filled with pressurized water and ready to activate immediately in case of a fire. These systems are used for heated areas where temperatures remain above 4°C. Wet pipe systems are simple to use and require minimal maintenance, making them a popular choice for many commercial and residential properties.

Application-

Office buildings, retail stores, apartments, schools and restaurants.

Deluge System

A deluge system is a fire suppression system that quickly releases a large amount of water or foam to extinguish a fire. Deluge systems are more effective than regular sprinkler systems in high-risk situations because they release water to all open sprinkler heads at once, rather than activating each head individually.

Application-

Power plants, Aircraft hangars, and Chemical plants.

Pre-action System

A pre-action system is a type of fire sprinkler system that requires a specific sequence of events to activate, providing an added layer of protection against accidental discharge. It combines a dry-pipe system with an electrically operated valve, often controlled by a fire detection system.

Application-

Freezers, Museums, Computer rooms, Clean rooms, Data centers, Telecommunication centers, and Archives.

How to plan a sprinkler system for Project Approval

Prepare Sprinkler Plans
  • Develop a set of sprinkler plans as required by local codes.
  • Submit the plans to the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB) for review and approval.
Approval by Local Authorities
  • Wait for approval of the sprinkler plans before proceeding with the project.
Install the Sprinkler System
  • Only a Licensed Fire Suppression Contractor (LFSC) or Licensed Master Plumber (LMP) (for projects with up to 30 heads) can carry out the installation.
Inspection and Verification
  • Inspectors verify the installed system matches the approved design and ensure proper functionality.
Exemptions from Filing

Filing is not required for the following alterations if the budget is under $35,000 over 12 months:

  • Replacing parts.
  • Modifications not affecting system operation.
  • Rearranging up to 20 sprinkler heads.
  • Adding up to 5 sprinkler heads.
Installations

Only a qualified contractor can install sprinkler systems in NYC. Licensed Fire Suppression Contractors (LFSC) are required, but Licensed Master Plumbers (LMP) can handle projects with up to 30 sprinkler heads.

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How Fire Protection Engineers Can Optimize Sprinkler Plans

Analyze Building Requirements

Assess the building layout, occupancy type, and fire risk to design a tailored sprinkler system.

Ensure Code Compliance

Verify that the design meets all local fire codes and standards, avoiding delays in approval.

Select the Right Sprinkler System

Choose the most suitable system (e.g., wet, dry, pre-action) based on the building's needs and environmental conditions.

Optimize Hydraulic Calculations

Ensure efficient water flow and pressure for effective fire suppression while minimizing system cost.

Incorporate Advanced Technology

Integrate modern technologies like smart sprinklers and automation for improved fire detection and suppression.

Plan for Maintenance and Scalability

Design systems that are easy to maintain and adaptable for future building modifications.

Minimize Installation Costs

Strategically route piping and optimize system layout to reduce material and labor expenses.

When did fire sprinklers become mandatory?

Fire Sprinkler

The requirement to install a sprinkler system is determined by local authorities, and there are differences between cities, states and countries. In New York City, the conditions for mandatory sprinkler systems are determined by the building’s occupancy classification, floor area and a number of occupants. There are also special applications in which fire sprinklers become mandatory regardless of building area and occupancy.

Read More: When are sprinkler systems mandatory in New York City?

When new versions of building codes are published, they apply for new constructions, renovations and building expansions. Owners of existing buildings are not forced to upgrade their properties according to the new code, unless they carry out a renovation project.

In the case of existing buildings without fire sprinklers, the installation is only mandatory when requested by a NYC local law. For example, Local Law 26 of 2004 makes sprinklers mandatory for all buildings that belong to Business Group E (as defined back in 2004), with a height of at least 100 feet.

  • The deadline to install fire sprinklers according to LL26/04 was July 1, 2019.
  • Any building covered by the law that still lacks a sprinkler system is subject to penalties.
  • Filing sprinkler plans is necessary to meet LL26. Even a building with sprinklers is not compliant if the project has not been filed yet.

Sprinkler systems are recommended even for buildings that are not covered by LL26/04, due to how effective they are as a fire protection measure. However, keep in mind that building codes are mandatory even if your fire sprinkler installation is optional. You must contact a Registered Design Professional (RDP) to get the sprinkler plans approved by the NYC Department of Building, and must then hire a qualified contractor for the installation.

How NY Engineers Can Help

We specialize in creating efficient, code-compliant sprinkler design systems tailored to unique project needs. By leveraging advanced design tools and expertise, they ensure seamless integration with building systems, quick approvals, and cost-effective solutions for clients.

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