Red Seal Sprinkler Fitter Practice Exam

What should be done if a sprinkler system does not have enough water pressure?

1. Reduce the number of sprinkler heads

2. Investigate and address the water supply issue

3. Ignore the issue until next inspection

4. Increase the space between the sprinkler heads

The correct answer is: Investigate and address the water supply issue

When a sprinkler system does not have enough water pressure, the appropriate action is to investigate and address the water supply issue. This is crucial because inadequate water pressure can severely compromise the functionality and effectiveness of the sprinkler system in controlling or extinguishing a fire. Ensuring that the water supply is sufficient—whether through municipal supply, tank systems, or pumps—will ultimately guarantee that the sprinkler heads can deliver the necessary flow rate to operate effectively. Investigating the water supply can involve checking the pressure levels, assessing whether there are blockages or leaks in the supply lines, or evaluating the capacity of the existing water source. Addressing these issues ensures that the sprinkler system is reliable and compliant with safety standards. Addressing the water supply issue is a more sensible and effective approach than the alternatives. Reducing the number of sprinkler heads, for example, might result in inadequate coverage and could violate safety codes. Ignoring the issue is not only unsafe but could lead to severe consequences in the event of a fire. Additionally, increasing the space between sprinkler heads might not be a viable solution and could further reduce the system's effectiveness. Therefore, prioritizing the investigation and resolution of any water supply issues is the foundation for maintaining a functional and effective sprinkler system.