Why Winterization Preparation is Important
Certain types of buildings and occupancies are more susceptible to extremely wintry weather, and when they do experience a freeze, the damage can be greater than in other types of buildings. Some buildings are designed to make use of heat generated by human occupants. When vacant for extended periods during extreme cold, the temperature can drop below freezing.
Fire protection equipment is especially vulnerable when freezing temperatures affect a building. If pipes freeze, a business or school could be forced to close temporarily because life safety cannot be assured. Failure or disruption of these important fire protection systems can also be expensive to repair.
Winterization Checklist
1. Open doors or rooms to allow ambient heat to warm the pipes.
2. Insulate pipes that are exposed to outside air.
3. Drain drum drips and be aware of temperature shifts that cause condensation.
4. Be aware of and correct and pitch/angels that do not allow proper drainage.
5. An antifreeze sprinkler system should have the proper mix of listed antifreeze.
6. Be prepared for “Fire Watch” in the event your sprinkler system is inoperable.
7. Address any power issues in your building, including adding backup options.
Get Inspected
If you are not sure you are prepared for the winter freeze, contact one of our offices today. A professional will look for many things that could lead to costly damage and the reduction of a life safety system’s reliability.
