Commercial sprinkler systems are important safety features that many businesses depend on. An indoor sprinkler system can quickly put out a fire if spontaneous combustion occurs in your office, restaurant, or healthcare facility. However, during the colder months of the year, sprinkler systems can freeze, especially when left in Des Moines’ cold climate.
Frozen sprinkler systems can lead to significant water buildup in commercial properties. Frozen pipes and sprinklers negatively impact businesses if they burst, and if a company hopes to avoid a prolonged closure, expert water damage restoration services will be necessary. Professional remediation for water damage can help a business get back on its feet quickly and minimize the amount of time it is not operating.
How Frozen Sprinkler Systems Cause Water Damage in Commercial Buildings
A fire sprinkler system is a network of pipes and sprinkler heads that release water when a fire is detected. Commonly found in commercial buildings, fire sprinkler systems can save lives, reduce property loss, and prevent major fire damage. However, depending on where you live, fire sprinkler systems may come with concerns that can cause extreme damage to your business.
Fire sprinkler systems can freeze during colder months and create extensive water damage for commercial buildings. When sprinkler systems are exposed to freezing temperatures, the water within the pipes will freeze and expand, putting pressure on the pipes and causing them to burst.
Des Moines Climate and Its Impact on Sprinkler Systems
Iowa business owners experience extremely cold winters. In the winter, Des Moines can experience below-freezing temperatures that threaten the integrity of commercial plumbing systems. Seasonal weather patterns increase the likelihood of frozen sprinkler system failures.
Commercial buildings may face increased vulnerability to plumbing frees if they are older or lack proper heating. Businesses with outdated HVAC systems and aging infrastructure may be susceptible to water damage during the winter. If your business is headquartered in an older building that lacks heat, a professional inspection can help you determine what upgrades should be made. Consult with an expert before the winter begins so you can prevent major water damage from occurring in your commercial building.
Wet pipe sprinkler systems in unheated or poorly insulated areas are likely to freeze during winter months in Des Moines. According to The National Fire Protection Association, wet sprinklers must be maintained above 40 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent freezing. Being exposed to temperatures below 32 degrees Fahrenheit will freeze the sprinkler system, causing water to expand and burst your commercial pipes.
How to Prevent Frozen Sprinkler System Failures in Des Moines
Preventive measures can be extremely beneficial, especially for businesses in colder climates like Des Moines. Frozen temperatures can cause severe damage to your commercial building and plumbing system. Small additions to your commercial plumbing system, such as pipe insulation and heating cables, can make a big difference in your building. Preventive measures keep water flowing through your pipes in the winter, stopping water from freezing and putting pressure on a plumbing system.
Pre-action sprinkler systems can prevent floods and water damage because the water is not contained in the pipes. Instead, it is held back by a pre-action valve that is activated by heat, smoke, or flame. Once a fire is detected, the valve opens and allows water to flow into the sprinklers.
Regular maintenance checks and inspections before the winter months can ensure sprinkler systems are in good working order. Annual inspections from a professional company can keep your commercial appliances in good condition and prevent major breakdowns. Researching commercial water damage repair
What to Do When a Frozen Sprinkler System Fails in Your Des Moines Commercial Building
A frozen sprinkler system can cause damage, and if your commercial sprinklers freeze, it is important to know what to do next. If you have a burst frozen sprinkler system, shut off the water supply immediately to prevent additional water from flooding your business. From there, assess the damage and contain any visible leaks. Contact a professional water damage remediation company for immediate repair and restoration services. Contact emergency services such as the fire department or ambulance if needed.
Acting quickly in the event of a frozen sprinkler system is extremely important. Quick action can mitigate damage and reduce the risk of mold or long-term structural damage. This will prevent costly repairs and save your company money. Frozen sprinkler systems can cause water to quickly flood your business and begin damaging your structure. Acting quickly in the event of a burst is the best way to get your business back on its feet in a timely manner.
ServiceMaster by Rice – Des Moines: Your Trusted Water Damage Restoration Repair
ServiceMaster by Rice specializes in water damage restoration, particularly from frozen sprinkler system failures. Our years of experience in handling both fire and water damage restoration for commercial buildings, and our comprehensive services ensure your water damage is professionally handled. From detection to reconstruction, we provide commercial buildings with extensive water damage remediation services that restore commercial buildings to their pre-loss conditions.
Our technicians understand that no two structures are identical, which is why we provide customized solutions to ensure efficient recovery from water damage in commercial properties. Our services minimize downtime, reducing the financial impact of water damage.
Contact ServiceMaster by Rice for expert water damage restoration services. If your frozen sprinkler system leads to burst pipes in your commercial building, we can help you remove standing water and fully remediate your business. Our professionals provide quick restoration services in the event of a system failure, and our 24/7 emergency services ensure you have around-the-clock support for your commercial water damage. Call us today to schedule an appointment with a member of our team.
