5 year Inspection: What it is and what to expect.

When you manage or own a property with fire sprinklers, you hope they'll never be needed. When fire breaks out, you need to know your system will function properly. Without regular maintenance and inspection, it's very likely your fire sprinkler system may fail to operate as intended.

This is where the 5-Year Internal Piping Condition and Obstruction Inspection becomes essential. This inspection ensures that your fire sprinkler system is in optimal condition and free from any obstructions that could impede its functionality. By staying proactive and conducting regular inspections, you can rest assured that your fire sprinkler system will be ready to protect your property in the event of an emergency.

What is it? The 5-Year fire sprinkler inspection is an NFPA mandated inspection examining the insides of your fire sprinklers’ piping. The examination must be carried out a minimum of every 5 years.

Why it's necessary: The purpose is to ensure there are no internal blockages that would interfere with the effective and free flow of water through the piping when needed in the event of a fire.

What it's looking for: The inspection will search for and be able to identify a variety of internal problems or obstructions within the piping, including:

Corrosion

Foreign materials (organic and inorganic)

Slime

Rust

What it Entails: The initial assessment includes opening the flushing connection at one of the main ends and removing a sprinkler tower from one end of a branch line. If sufficient foreign organic or inorganic material is discovered to be obstructing the pipe or sprinklers, then there will be a more comprehensive obstruction investigation.

The obstruction investigation includes a minimum of four points in the fire sprinkler system: system valve, riser, cross main, and branch line. If obstructions are found, foreign materials in the piping will be removed with a complete flush.

Where to start:

Not sure whether your fire sprinkler system is due for its 5-Year Internal Inspection or what to do if you need one? The experts at Kanske Fire can guide you in the right direction. Whether your sprinkler system needs an assessment, repairs, or you’re in need of a completely new system, Kanske will provide you with the very best quality service and materials.

Contact us at 405-625-0157 to speak with a fire sprinkler expert today.