Fire Sprinkler Tanks: Sizes, Maintenance and Common Faults

Fire sprinkler tanks play an important role in a number of residential fire sprinkler systems. They provide a dedicated water supply, helping ensure enough water is available if a fire occurs. However, like other parts of a sprinkler system, tanks need regular inspection and maintenance. 

Problems with water levels, landlords, and property managers, understanding how their sprinkler tanks work, and what can go wrong, are all important parts of maintaining an existing system. 

At Fire Sprinkler Servicing Ltd, we specialise in fire sprinkler testing, servicing, and repairs. In this article, we’re going to be discussing the ins and outs regarding what you need to know about tank size, maintenance, and common faults. 

What Is A Fire Sprinkler Tank?

A fire sprinkler tank stores water for use by the sprinkler system. Some residential systems use a dedicated tank and pump, where others receive water directly from the mains, depending on the system design and the supply. 

Where a tank is fitted, it works alongside the pump and pipework to deliver water at the necessary pressure and flow. If the water supply is not good enough, or there is an issue with a component, the system might not operate as it should during a fire. 

This is why tank checks are an important part of routine fire sprinkler servicing, instead of being overlooked as soon as it’s been installed. It’s common to forget about them, but it’s best that you don’t.

What Size Should A Fire Sprinkler Tank Be?

There is not a single tank size that would be suitable for every single property. The required capacity depends on the sprinkler system design, building layout, required operating conditions, and the water supply arrangement. 

A tank that serves an individual house for example is going to have different requirements than that which supplies a larger residential building. The pump and other components must also be suitable.

Tank capacity should be determined by the system design, and applicable standards also, instead of just the size of the property. If you’re not sure whether your tank is suitable, a component specialist can review the system documentation and check for you. 

Why Is FireSprinkler Tank Maintenance Important?

A tank may seem like it’s in good condition from the outside, while problems are developing on the inside, or other places that you cannot see. Water levels can fall, connections can leak, and pumps can stop operating as they should. 

Regular inspections help identify these issues before they can impact the overall performance of the system. During your professional servicing appointment, an engineer may check the following:

• Confirming the tank contains the required water level supply

• Look for leaks, damage, corrosion or deterioration of the tank

• Check that the pump operates as it should be

• Find any leaks, damage, or interference in the valves and connections

• Completing flow and pressure tests

The exact checks will depend on the system, but these are some of the common ones. Residential sprinkler systems should be maintained in line with their design requirements, and the correct standards. 

Find out more about this on our fire sprinkler testing and servicing page. 

Common Fire Sprinkler Tank Faults

Sprinkler tanks can develop faults over time, with some problems being visible, with others only becoming apparent during professional inspection. 

Low Water Levels

Insufficient water may prevent a tank from providing the supply needed by the sprinkler system. Causes can include leaks, or problems with the water replenishment.

Leaks And Tank Damage

Leaks around the tank, pipework, or connections can cause water loss and damage to the surrounding property. Damp patches, pooling, or unexplained water level drops should not be ignored. 

Pump Problems

Where a tank fed system uses a pump, it needs to deliver the required water flow and pressure. Mechanical faults, electrical problems, or worn components can impact performance. 

Listen out for unusual noises, look for visible leaks, and more to check if it needs attention. 

Contamination and Deterioration

Dirt, debris, and deterioration inside a tank may impact water quality and contribute to problems elsewhere in the system. Tank condition and cleanliness should be assessed in line with the manufacturer’s guidance and relevant maintenance requirements. 

Cleaning and internal inspections should be carried out safely, with the system then going back to the correct operation. 

Can You Check A Fire Sprinkler Tank Yourself?

Property owners and managers can look for obvious signs of issues between their professional services. This includes things like visible leaks, changes in water levels, warning lights on equipment, and more. But, these checks do not replace having a professional test or maintenance. You should never open equipment, change valves, take components apart, or try to repair this system yourself. 

If you have a problem, or you think that there could be a problem you should contact a specialist asap. Leaving a fault unresolved could compromise the system’s ability to operate when needed. 

Look at our fire sprinkler repair service page for more information about identifying and addressing problems with your system. 

Keep Your Fire Sprinkler System Properly Maintained

Fire sprinkler tanks are an important part of many residential systems, but their condition should never be overlooked or taken for granted. Regular inspection helps identify water supply issues, leaks, pumps, faults, and other problems before they get any worse. 

Fire Sprinkler Servicing Ltd provides specialist testing, maintenance, and repair services for residential sprinkler systems across mainland UK. Our team can inspect relevant tank and pump components, test system performance, and report any faults that need attention. 

Is your sprinkler system due for a service? If it is, visit our fire sprinkler testing page or contact our team to discuss your property and arrange the appropriate support. Regular servicing helps to keep your system in good working order, and gives you the confidence that you need that it will be ready when it’s needed.