Fire hydrants are an essential component of any community's firefighting infrastructure. They provide a reliable source of water that firefighters can use to extinguish flames and prevent property damage and loss of life. 

We at Dutco Tennant LLC have a high-quality range of fire hydrants to support diverse firefighting systems. From a substation fire hydrant to fire hydrant for fuel stations, we’ve got a great stock.

However, no matter which fire hydrants you choose, they can only perform the intended function if they are properly maintained and kept in good working order. In this blog, we focus on discussing the significance of fire hydrant maintenance. Keep on reading to learn more.

Why is it important to maintain fire hydrants?

Ensuring functionality: Over time, fire hydrants can become clogged with debris, rust, or sediment, which can reduce their water flow or even render them as unusable. Regular maintenance and inspection can help identify and resolve these issues before they become major problems.

Improving safety: When a fire hydrant is out of service or not functioning properly, firefighters may be forced to rely on alternative water sources or spend valuable time searching for a working hydrant. This can increase response times, putting both firefighters and the public at greater risk of harm.

Preventing damage: A malfunctioning fire hydrant can also cause property damage or disruption to local traffic. For example, a broken hydrant may flood streets, causing cars to hydroplane or creating a hazard for pedestrians.

What does fire hydrant maintenance involve?

Fire hydrant maintenance typically involves flushing, lubrication, and inspection. During flushing, the hydrant is opened and water is allowed to flow through it at high pressure to clear any accumulated debris or sediment. 

Lubrication ensures that the hydrant's valves and other components move freely and do not become stuck. Inspection involves checking the hydrant's components for signs of wear or damage, such as cracked or leaking hoses or rusted bolts.

Moreover, the maintenance of a fire hydrant may even vary depending on the manufacturer. For instance, our wet barrel fire hydrant from AVK comes with an outlined manual. This hydrant is designed in such a way that all routine maintenance can be performed by one person only.

Who is responsible for maintaining fire hydrants?

In many communities, the responsibility for fire hydrant maintenance falls on the local fire department or water utility. However, some communities may require property owners to maintain hydrants located on their land or within their building's vicinity.

It is important to check with local authorities to determine who is responsible for maintaining fire hydrants in your area. Be sure to have a professional to conduct the necessary maintenance as each type of fire hydrant needs a specific maintenance routine. For instance, a dry barrel fire hydrant may require more frequent maintenance than wet because of their design.

Conclusion

But no matter what, fire hydrant maintenance is a critical aspect of ensuring public safety and protecting property. Regular maintenance and inspection can help ensure that fire hydrants remain in good working order and can perform their essential function when called upon.

If you are interested in investing in our quality selection of industrial fire hydrant products then be sure to prioritise hydrant maintenance. As maintenance is key to keep the fire hydrants in optimised conditions.