You test your facility’s fire pump regularly to ensure it’s running at peak performance, except this time you notice there’s something wrong. You try and make a few adjustments but something isn’t quite right. Then you remember that you saw work taking place underground nearby your facility last week. This could be the reason why your fire pump has a problem.
What Damages the Fire Pump?
Unfortunately, work performed on underground water pipes in close proximity to your facility could cause damage to your fire pump. A variety of debris such as rocks, nuts, and bolts can get into newly installed or repaired underground piping. This debris travels through the pipe and can end up in your pump during the next test. Even a small rock can severely damage a fire pump impeller. This occurs because the rock slams into the impeller and bounces around in the casing at high speed. Repairing or replacing a damaged impeller can cost an upwards of $5,000. But you shouldn’t experience any issues with your fire pump as long as you take these precautions.
Preventing Damages
First, pay close attention to work that occurred nearby your facility. If contractors worked on underground pipes, check and make sure that they flushed the pipes. Contractors must flush the pipes once they complete the work. According to NFPA 24, the contractor’s responsibility includes following the testing procedure outlined in the Contractor’s Material and Test Certificate for Underground Piping, found in NFPA 24. Flushing the pipes should clear the water of any debris which will allow your fire pump system to operate at its normal level of performance.
Unfortunately, even when you’re running your pump regularly, factors outside the building can impair the system. So it’s important to be aware of what’s going on in your facility as well as work taking place in the surrounding area.
Categorized in: Education, Fire Pumps