Red Seal Sprinkler Fitter Practice Exam

What is the primary function of control valves in a sprinkler system?

1. To increase the water pressure

2. To isolate sections for maintenance

3. To filter contaminants from the water

4. To manually operate sprinkler heads

The correct answer is: To isolate sections for maintenance

The primary function of control valves in a sprinkler system is to isolate sections for maintenance. Control valves allow for the manual or automatic control of water flow to specific zones within a fire protection system. By isolating certain sections, they enable maintenance personnel to work on equipment or repair pipes without having to drain the entire system or interrupt water service to other parts of the building. This isolation capability is essential for ensuring ongoing system integrity and safety while facilitating necessary maintenance without significant disruptions. While the other options suggest important functions, they do not directly align with the main purpose of control valves. For example, increasing water pressure, filtering contaminants, or manually operating sprinkler heads are benefits deriving from other system components or mechanisms. Understanding the role of control valves in the sprinkler system configuration is crucial for effective management and upkeep of fire protection systems.