What should be done if a standpipe/sprinkler system needs to raise its pressure?

Increasing the pressure of a standpipe or sprinkler system in increments of 25 PSI is appropriate for several reasons related to the flow dynamics and operational limits of these systems.

First, a 25 PSI increment allows for a significant enough change to ensure the system can effectively deliver water to the required heights or distances, particularly because fire suppression systems must maintain adequate pressure to reach the top floor or further distances over obstacles. If adjustments are too small, such as 10 PSI or even 15 PSI, operators may not effectively meet the operational requirements of the system, potentially leaving areas inadequately serviced.

Additionally, when adjusting pressures, it is critical to monitor the system’s performance to ensure that it remains within safety and operational parameters while also accounting for the back pressure losses that occur in different parts of the system. An increment of 25 PSI typically allows for better responsiveness and affects flow rates and coverage more significantly, which is essential during emergency situations where time and efficiency are of the essence.

Establishing proper pressure levels is necessary not just for effective fire suppression but also to prevent potential damage to the system from excessive pressure. Therefore, the practice of increasing pressure by larger increments is often stipulated in the guidelines for maintaining fire protection systems, emphasizing the need for robust decision