Fire sprinklers are often required in hotels, apartment buildings and other commercial structures. While your fire sprinklers going off will put out the fire, they can also lead to major water problems. Fire sprinkler floods are common after fires. Plus, a leaking fire sprinkler head can cause serious damage. We look at how to clean up the water after a fire sprinkler leak or flood and when you should call a water restoration company.
How to Cleanup a Fire Sprinkler Flood or Leak?
For smaller fire sprinkler floods, you may have the equipment necessary to clean up the water on your own. However, a complete fire sprinkler system failure will probably require more equipment that you have.
In addition to the water itself, the water pressure can also cause damage as well. Since the water pressure is much higher than in regular plumbing, a broken or leaking fire sprinkler head can cut through drywall or cabinets.
- Disable the Fire Sprinkler System – Before cleaning up a fire sprinkler flood, make sure the fire is completely out. Then shut off the fire sprinkler system to stop the flow of water.
- Remove Standing Water – Whenever possible, use a pump to remove as much standing water as possible. Otherwise, use a wet/dry or shop vac to suck up the water.
- Dry the Area – Then use high volume fans to dry out the area as soon as possible. If you have them, use structural drying dehumidifiers as well.
- Make Repairs – Repair damage to drywall, flooring and other materials as soon as they are dry. This may include fixing your fire sprinkler system as well.
What Causes Fire System Floods and Leaks?
The number one cause of a fire sprinkler flood is the system going off because of a fire. A single fire sprinkler will use between 15 and 25 gallons of water a minute.
Depending on the number of sprinkler heads and how long the run, you could have hundreds or thousands of gallons of water. All of that water will flood your building and cause significant damage.
Although less likely, a leaking fire sprinkler head or another system failure can occur. In most cases, this is due to an accident but tampering is also possible. However, older systems are prone to corrosion, defects and failure.
Also, extreme cold and high heat can damage fire sprinkler systems as well. Sprinkler lines near exterior walls may even freeze and burst during the winter, while high temperatures can cause them to leak or corrode.
Who to Call for Help Cleaning Up?
If you have a leaking fire sprinkler head or a flood that you can’t clean up fast, call a water damage restoration company. They have both the training and equipment necessary to remove standing water quickly. Then they will dry out and restore your property.
Need water cleanup after a fire sprinkler flood or leak? Get fast, reliable service now from a local restoration specialist. Call 1-888-443-3110 for immediate water damage restoration services. We offer 24-hour service, 30-minute response and always free estimates for all water and fire cleanup.
