What is the Difference Between a Fire Sprinkler and Fire Suppression System?

Fire sprinklers and fire suppressions systems both work to put out dangerous fires, but are different in how they do so. It is good to know what each system is capable of to determine which is the best fit for your building. Each system has the same end goal of putting out a fire quickly to save lives and property, but they have different ways of getting to that end goal.

What are Fire Sprinkler Systems?

Fire sprinkler systems are a common fire protection system installed in many homes and buildings. Fire sprinklers work to extinguish fires by discharging water when fires are detected. These systems detect heat or smoke and activate the sprinkler heads in the appropriate building area. These systems are seen in both commercial and residential buildings where rapid-fire distinguishing is necessary. Sprinklers are inexpensive in comparison to some suppression systems because they use water which is a liquid already carried by most buildings.

Types of Fire Sprinklers

  • Wet System Sprinklers
  • Dry System Fire Sprinklers
  • Deluge Systems
  • Pre-action Systems Sprinklers
  • Mist Sprinkler Systems
  • Early Suppression, Fast Response Systems
  • In-Rack Sprinkler Systems

Where Fire Sprinklers are the Best Option

Fire sprinklers are very compatible with many applications and buildings and are very common in residential and commercial structures. Fire sprinkler systems are used in many places such as warehouses, multi facility retailers, grocery stores and much more. These are buildings that don’t contain expensive equipment that may be severely damaged from water.

What are Fire Suppression Systems?

Fire suppression systems are another form of fire protection that works to extinguish fires. Unlike fire sprinklers, fire suppression systems use non-water based substances to suppress a fire. Substances used may include chemical, foam, or other gas agents. Suppression systems are more typically seen in industrial or commercial buildings. With fire suppression systems water damage that may be caused from water sprinklers is eliminated.

Types of Fire Suppression Systems

  • Inergen Fire Suppression
  • FM-200 Systems
  • Novec 1230
  • CO2 Fire Suppression
  • Watermist Fire Suppression
  • Victaulic Vortex (Water & Gas)

Where Fire Suppression Systems are the Best Option

Fire suppression systems are most often used in commercial or industrial buildings. These are buildings that may contain equipment or technology that are very water sensitive, or buildings containing flammables that are unable to be suppressed by water. These buildings may include data centers, restaurants (kitchen areas), or other places containing a lot of technology and devices.

W&M Fire Protection Systems

Looking for a trusty fire protection company to provide you with the best fit fire protection system for you? At W&M fire protection we provide design, installation, repair, and service of both fire sprinkler and suppression systems. We will help you find the best type of sprinkler or suppression system depending on your building and safety needs. Whether you want to protect your assets with a suppression system or are looking for a compatible easy to use sprinkler system, we have your back. Contact your nearest W&M office today to learn more about the systems we offer or to request a quote!