For a wet sprinkler system to operate efficiently, there are several components required for application. One of these components is the installation of alarm check valves. This component is not only applicable for wet sprinkler systems but essential for other sprinkler systems as well, especially those intended for fire suppression.

While many think that alarm check valves are for preventing backflow of water, even though they perform the assumed function of preventing backflow and avoid the situation of potential water supply contamination, the primary intention of installing alarm check valves is to hold the backflow water pressure within the system until the time when needed.

An alarm check valve can be opened with either of the two ways – manually or electronically. Keep reading more to find out the requirement and importance of this check valve.

Alarm Check Valves – The Basics of it

The core of the alarm check valve is intended to help control water all around a web standpipe system. This system can be underground; however, the majority of alarm check valve applications are for above ground, typically for high rises and buildings.

Due to the corrosive nature of water, when it settles idle for a longer period of time the chances of pipes to get corrosive increases incredibly. The building pressure further increases the corrosion impact on the pipeline.

However, with the application of alarm check valves, installers can significantly minimize the corrosion level as it limits the water pressure within the pipeline. Once the valves are opened, the full water pressure is allowed to be filled within the system.

In high rise building applications, the alarm check valves perfectly fit the tremendous length of piping and automatically adapt in controlling the water flow and ensure efficient system operation.

If there’s need for any work to be done, the professional can either manually close the alarm check valves and make the appropriate fixes.

Risks involved when Alarm Check Valve is not installed

The building water pressure within a pipeline can never be right for the overall performance of the sprinkler system. If the alarm check valve is not installed then chances are the entire system will be under full water pressure which can lead to encountering several issues.

The sprinkler system is more likely to face events of surges. Moreover, the build up pressure can also cause pipes to corrode and cause internal damage. That is why it is more than essential to install high-quality alarm check valves for any sprinkler system.

The alarm check valves have a double-seated clapper that works to hold the water pressure within a system. When there’s continuous flow of water, these valves are designed to trigger an alarm or activate a switch that alerts about the water pressure.

While the electronically operated alarm check valves activate automatically to carry out the function, the manual ones require an operator to open the valve. Either way, these check valves help in maintaining the healthy condition of the sprinkler system and ensure stable water pressure and water backflow is prevented.