Why are pressure tests crucial for sprinkler systems?

Pressure tests are crucial for sprinkler systems primarily because they verify that the system can withstand water pressure during activation. It's essential that the components of a sprinkler system, such as pipes, valves, and joints, are capable of handling the maximum pressure that will be exerted on them when the system is operational. If a system is not able to withstand this pressure, it poses a significant risk of failure, which could lead to inadequate water distribution during a fire event.

Understanding the pressure capabilities helps ensure the reliability of the sprinkler system under emergency conditions. Proper testing also helps to identify any weaknesses or potential points of failure within the system design or installation, thereby ensuring that the system will function effectively when needed.

While checking for leaks in the water supply is an important consideration, it is a different process and not the primary focus of a pressure test. Similarly, determining the age of the system and measuring water temperature are unrelated to the purpose of pressure testing, which is specifically aimed at assessing pressure-handling capacity.