Sprinkler System Types
Wet – Wet type systems are the most common type of sprinkler system that is installed. A wet pipe system has water in the pipes in the ambient or normal condition and has heat responsive elements on all sprinklers. Thus, water is instantaneously discharged from a sprinkler when it actuates.
Dry – In areas where low temperatures could cause a wet pipe system to freeze, a dry pipe system is intended for use. Dry pipe systems are pressurized with air in the ambient condition and experience an inherent delay in the discharge of water to allow the pressurized air in the system to escape. When a sprinkler actuates, air is released through the sprinkler, allowing water to flow into the piping system through the dry pipe valve.