Home Fire Sprinkler Systems

Home Fire Sprinkler Systems

What can you say about Residential Fire Sprinklers? (I am looking at metal frame, two stories, 4k, with expanded foam insulation).

Are they worth it? The government has a good web site trying to sell the idea to tract builders, but I don’t see the idea promoted for custom homes.

Will there be a pay off in reduced fire insurance?

Thanks,
Jim”

Hi Jim,

I say installing residential fire sprinklers during new construction makes sense.

Smoke detectors save your life, sprinklers save your "stuff".

Here some facts from Tyco, including your question about saving on insurance:

Myths & Facts (From Tyco)

Here is a list of common MYTHS about home fire sprinkler systems.

The FACTS will help provide a more thorough understanding of the features and benefits of home fire sprinkler systems.

MYTH:
When a fire occurs, every sprinkler in the house will activate.

FACT:
Contrary to movie scenes, all the sprinklers in a sprinkler system do not activate at once. When a fire sprinkler activates, by design, the sprinkler closest to the fire goes off – and in 90% of cases, one sprinkler is enough to suppress the fire.

MYTH:
Small things like burning a piece of toast could trigger the sprinkler system.

FACT:
Burning toast and smoking cigars will not trigger a fire sprinkler. Fire sprinklers are only activated by extremely high temperatures, not by smoke. Only a threatening fire can generate enough heat to activate a sprinkler.

MYTH:
A little fire or smoke damage is better than having the whole house ruined by water damage if the sprinkler system goes off.

FACT:
A residential fire sprinkler uses only 10-25 gallons of water per minute, and operates early in a fire. A hose used by firefighters flows about 10 times that amount – around 125-250 gallons per minute.

MYTH:
Fire sprinklers could go off accidentally.

FACT:
The chances that a sprinkler will accidentally discharge due to a manufacturing defect are extremely rare- 1 in 16 million. Overall, sprinkler accidents are generally less likely and less severe than accidents involving home plumbing systems.

MYTH:
Fire sprinklers won’t look nice in my beautiful new home.

Photo courtesy of Tyco Fire and Building Products

FACT:
Actually, most fire sprinklers are small and unobtrusive so you won’t even notice them unless you are looking for them. Tyco’s Rapid Response sprinklers come in a wide range of colors and styles, ensuring that they will blend aesthetically with any home decor.

MYTH:
Home fire sprinklers are very expensive.

FACT:
The cost of installing a fire sprinkler is only about the cost of a flooring upgrade, and can offer peace-of-mind and protect your family for many years. Plus, you can enjoy discounts of up to 15% on your homeowner’s insurance premium.

Jim, thanks for your email. Everyone should be "Fire" conscious. Good luck,

Carl