When raising pressure in a standpipe/sprinkler system, what is the proper increment for adjustments?

Raising the pressure in a standpipe or sprinkler system requires careful adjustments to ensure optimal performance and prevent damage to the system. The proper increment for adjustments is typically set at 25 PSI. This increment allows for significant increases in pressure that can be effectively managed without overwhelming the system.

Smaller increments, such as 10, 15, or even 20 PSI, may not provide enough change to achieve the desired operational pressure, especially for systems that require high flow rates or are designed to support significant firefighting efforts. Conversely, adjusting by larger amounts than 25 PSI could introduce risks such as overstressing the piping or components, leading to potential failures or leaks. Therefore, 25 PSI strikes a balance between making meaningful adjustments while maintaining system integrity.