Fire Inspection Water Supply Systems

A fire hydrant is a vigorous fire defense and joining portion that the firefighters can bang into a liquid source. Different types of fire hydrants exist according to the purpose and locality. For this reason, the paper seeks to find out the type of hydrants appropriate in a given community as well as the testing and maintenance measures for the hydrant. The paper will also provide the spacing requirements for the fire hydrants based on the local needs. Finally, it will offer the inspection needs of the fire hydrants installed.

The community comprises of several dwellings including single dwellings, multiple dwellings, and commercial dwellings. Because of the difference in occupancy, installation of different types of hydrants will take place in this location. The difference in the kind of hydrant will also depend on the climatic conditions. The type selection is by the local requirements. In so doing, installation of two different types of hydrants will occur in this location (Liley & Danielson, 2012). The first category is the dry riser hydrant. Dry riser barrel installation will take place in regions where temperatures are expected to drop below the freezing point. On the other hand, wet riser hydrant installation will occur in areas where the temperatures do not fall below the freezing point.

The dry riser hydrants testing process includes the use of pipes filled with air pumped into the house, to reduce the effects of fire. Wet riser hydrants include pipes with water from the water supply connected to the valves in the buildings within the locality to reduce fire effects. For proper and better operation of both the wet and dry hydrants, maintenance is critical (Gary, 2010). Due to the difference in operation, they undergo different types of maintenance. The dry riser hydrant has two main type of services, visual inspection, and annual pressure test. Visual inspection helps in identifying any substantial leakage in the hydrant. Since dry hydrant uses air, it is essential to verify the pressure regularly to ensure the pressure level is within the required standards. Consequently, wet hydrant has three kinds of services. Visual inspection, electric pump servicing, and flow test. Wet riser hydrant uses water in the pipe. Visual inspection help in identifying any form of leakages in the pipes. There is a connection between the pipes and electric points to avoid electrical shocks. Doing electric servicing is essential. Finally, the flow test helps to keep the flow of water in the pipes above the required standards. 

There are different fire hydrant spacing requirements for the separate dwellings within the locality. Single dwellings will have a spacing of 400 feet. Multiple dwellings will have a spacing of 250 feet, and the commercial dwellings will have a spacing of 300 feet.

The fire hydrants will require periodic inspection to ensure a better operation of the fire hydrants. The local municipalities will do the inspection. During the inspection, the head of the hydrant requires much attention. Lubrication takes place in the head, and the head gaskets restored or replaced in case of breakage. Replacement of O-rings occurs annually. It is essential to inspect the lubricants periodically.