Summer Maintenance Tips

It's summer and time to enjoy picnics, pools and vacations. But how about your fire protection systems? Now is the time to look at warm weather maintenance. The following items are best done during warm weather. Remember, if you have questions or run into problems, just call our office at (937) 886-0000 or e-mail matrix@matrixrc.com for advice!

The annual trip test of any preaction, deluge or dry pipe system is a warm weather operation. Doing this during hot weather gives the systems plenty of time to dry out before winter arrives. If you have questions about these tests, please give us a call. We highly recommend you use the Matrix trip test form to record the results. Just call or e-mail if you need a new supply of forms.

Have your sprinkler valves been fully exercised during the past year? If not, now is the time to fully close, lubricate and reopen valves to the full open position. We suggest counting the turns to close and to open, just to make sure the valve is FULLY open when the test is complete. Better to find out that repairs are needed during a controlled test than when the valve is needed in an emergency.

If you have a diesel fire pump, most problems we find are related to the cooling system. The big culprit... the strainers in the cooling line. Most diesel fire pump engines have at least one strainer, and many also have a built-in strainer in the pressure regulator in the cooling water line. Annually, the units should be taken apart and the screens removed and cleaned. If you use a dirty water source such as a river or pond, this quick maintenance may be necessary even more frequently to keep your engine ready for immediate action. Remember that during a real fire, this pump may be called upon to operate for hours under a heavy load. That is when the value of this small maintenance tip can really pay dividends! Be sure to record this in your Matrix Diesel Fire Pump Operating Log.

Have private hydrants on your fire system? If so, then now is the time to fully open and flush each one for several minutes where possible. Make sure they operate properly and close tightly. After flushing, wait a day or more and drop a weighted line in the hydrant opening to check that the barrel is dry. If you find water, then the unit is not draining properly and will be subject to freezing during the winter. If this is found, the help of your local sprinkler contractor may be needed.

Check this site often for timely tips to help keep your fire systems in tip top shape! Book mark this page or add to your "favorites" list to make access quick and easy.