Anti-Freeze systems, or wet pipe sprinkler systems that employ a liquid solution to prevent freezing of the system, used to be a common solution to protect small areas subject to freezing in cold weather. Several fire deaths, however, brought to light issues regarding the use of certain types of anti-freeze in anti-freeze systems. It was determined that high concentrations of anti-freeze solution in piping networks could be flammable under the right conditions. Subsequently, the National Fire Protection Association moved to put restrictions on the use of these anti-freeze solutions in sprinkler systems. At the end of 2022, NFPA 25 will no longer allow the use of standard propylene glycol and glycerin solutions in existing systems. Instead, owners of anti-freeze sprinkler systems must use UL certified anti-freeze solutions to fill their systems.

The care of your anti-freeze sprinkler system is vital to its effectiveness when combating a fire. For more information regarding this new legislation, contact us here at Modern Sprinkler.

Happy New Year! Now that 2018 is over, we have a chance to catch our breath, review the past year here at Modern Sprinkler and let you in on some new service initiatives we have in store for 2019:

• Enhanced reporting and distribution - we are committed to continuing to provide thorough, accurate inspection reports and distributing them in a timely fashion.  That's why we've implemented modified review procedures in our office to get you your reviewed reports quicker. We are also developing additional checks and balances with our field personnel that will help them develop more thorough inspection reports
• Quicker turn around time on repairs - Modern is also committed to making sure your fire protection system is in good working order. We will be speeding up scheduling for critical repairs in an effort to make sure your system will be there when you need it
• Referral program - Any current customer that successfully refers a new customer to Modern Sprinkler will receive a 5% credit on their next contract year. Please contact the office for more details.

Wishing you a happy and safe New Year,

Jordan Pasternak

Spring has Sprung (Almost!)

While it looks like we may get hit with a 4th (yes, 4th) nor'easter next week, it is important to be cognizant of a few things when it comes to your fire sprinkler system before, during and after the storm comes.

• Temperature - make sure areas where water filled sprinkler and standpipe piping exist stay above 40 degrees. This isn't any different than the checks you've been conducting all winter - let's keep it going for the next week or two until Spring decides to stay for good
• Clearance in front of Fire Department Connections - it is your responsibility to maintain a clear area around your facility's fire department connection at all times. Make sure snow, snow removal equipment or any other items that may obstruct Fire Department access are removed from the area in front and around your FDC. 3' on each side of the connection and 6' above it are good guidelines for clear area. Remember, the faster the Fire Department can locate and connect to your facility's FDC, the faster a fire condition can be controlled.
• Power loss - if you experience a loss in power before, during of after next week's storm and have a dry sprinkler system, please notify us. The last thing we want to see happen is your system filling with water and freezing because your air compressor is no longer running.

If you have any questions about how you can further ready your fire sprinkler system in the event of a weather emergency, please call our office and one of our qualified staff can assist you. Stay safe and looking forward to warmer weather coming soon!

On behalf of Modern Sprinkler, I would like to wish all of you a happy and prosperous New Year. 2017 saw some major changes for Modern, the largest of which was our move to brand new software in order to serve you better. We hope that you were pleased with our service throughout 2017 and thank you for placing your trust in Modern.

With the New Year comes well below freezing temperatures outside, and this becomes a very hazardous time for all types of sprinkler systems. In order to ensure continued operation of your sprinkler system, your vigilance in following some simple steps means a world of difference:

• Have a building employee walk through and visually inspect the sprinkler system every day. Things to look out for are cracked piping, broken/fused heads, and ice buildup. Leaking piping is a surefire indicator that damage has occurred. However, if the piping is still frozen, potential damage may appear after the cold weather has subsided.
• Make sure that all areas containing wet sprinkler piping are properly heated. A temperature of 40F should be maintained at all times in areas where water filled sprinkler piping is present. Something so small as a space heater can make a huge difference in keeping your sprinkler system operational.

 However, should your system freeze, please do not hesitate to give us a call. We are available 24/7 to do what’s necessary to keep your system in service and you safe.

Wishing you a happy and safe New Year,

Jordan Pasternak