When you're renovating your commercial property, fire safety needs to be as big a priority as functionality. That often means incorporating a new fire sprinkler system into the designs. For many business owners, sprinkler systems are an oversight because they don't typically deal with them. However, it's important for you to consider the options so that you get the right fire suppression system for your building's needs.

Choose Your Water Source

Every fire sprinkler system needs to have a source for the water supply. You can have the system plumbed into your building's existing incoming water lines and integrated into the plumbing, or you can establish a separate structure with a storage tank that feeds just the sprinkler system. 

If you opt for a separate storage tank, talk with the installation technician about how much water you might need for a widespread fire in the building. In many cases, it's easiest and most effective to plumb it directly into the existing system so that you are certain of sufficient water supply.

In addition, you'll find that it's more cost-effective to have it plumbed directly into the current system because you won't have the additional expense of the extra water supply and storage infrastructure that would be required.

Consider Your Pressure System

Every fire sprinkler system is under pressure, but the source of that pressure isn't always the same. Some systems contain high-pressure air in the lines throughout the building which is waiting to escape and create a water vacuum when the sprinkler head is activated. Other systems maintain full lines of water which create pressure behind the sprinkler head. 

A system that holds water throughout the lines is sometimes considered to be at a greater risk for leaks and water damage, so it may not be the ideal solution for your commercial structure. Consider how the system will be installed and how visible those lines would be. If you're likely to spot any leak right away, it may work for your business.

Select The Sensor System

Most sprinkler systems rely on a thermal sensor system to activate. This reduces the chances of having sprinklers activate in areas of the building that don't need them while still allowing for targeted sprinkler activation where necessary. When the temperature rises around a specific sprinkler head, the pressure capsule shatters and releases the water flow. This is ideal in comparison to alarm system activation or any other alternative because it is a precise, reliable activation system that reduces the risk of unnecessary water damage.

Consider these points as you choose the right sprinkler system for your building. For more information on fire sprinkler installation, contact a company near you.