When Can I Tie Into Existing Sprinkler Systems?

11/12/2021

We're designing an 8,000sf gymnasium addition to an existing fully wet sprinkled single story 100,000 sqft elementary school.

I'm putting together the design build criteria for the fire suppression system for the addition.

What determines if I can tie into the existing system to feed the addition?

There are 2-1/2" and 3" lines nearby serving the existing gymnasiums.

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6 Comments

Pete H

11/12/2021 06:47:35 am

A number of things, the first one I'd look at is making sure the 8,000 additional square feet doesn't take the existing systems over the protection area limitations outlined in NFPA 13 (2016 ed.) 8.2. and 8.2.1.

Dan Wilder

11/12/2021 06:58:44 am

Without any more details, short answer: When the hydraulics allow you to and from whichever system doesn't exceed the 52K limit. You can add onto any system at any point as long as you can prove it (square footage not withstanding).

Alex

11/12/2021 07:02:14 am

Hi,
There are a lot of things that need to be considered in regards to design criteria. If you are not a Fire Protection Engineer, I would recommend reaching out and hiring someone to assist you. If your sole question is what determines if you can tie into an existing system:

- Make sure that you are under the allowable square footage per zone
- Ensure the new system works hydraulically
- Possible addition to a new remote inspector’s test
- I would add that you want the same manufacture for materials

There are more for sure, these are the few items at the top of my head!

Thanks,
Alex

Glenn Berger

11/12/2021 08:49:17 am

In addition to the above responses ensure that a new hydrant flow test gets conducted.

When you mention - "connect to existing" are you specifically referring to:
a) connecting to existing branch lines
b) connecting to existing cross mains
c) connecting to existing riser
d) or something else.

My gut feeling is that existing 2-1/2" and 3 inch lines are cross mains associated with a hydraulically design grid system and that you should not plan on connected to them.

Jesse

11/12/2021 09:06:56 am

There are a lot of factors to consider.

1) 100,000 sq. ft in a single story, so you have at least 2 existing systems. If there are only 2, you'll need a third system as you'll be protecting 108,000 sq. ft. in aggregate. As its a single story, you'll exceed system design size.
2) If there are more than 2 systems, you may be able to extend an existing system; but doing so may very likely change the hydraulic remote area. The existing systems may not be able to provide the requisite density over the new area.

I'd suggest getting a design engineer on board pretty soon.

Jack G

11/12/2021 09:23:18 am

You have to watch the “ fire alarm zoning” also. The addition may need to be in its own zone for detectors. If so, you may need system #3 .

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When Can I Tie Into Existing Sprinkler Systems?

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