Sprinkler systems are one of the most effective tools for controlling fires in buildings, but did you know there are several types—and each is designed for a specific use case? Depending on the environment, contents of the space, and fire risk level, MEP designers choose different fire sprinkler systems to protect lives and property. In this guide, we’ll walk through the four main types—wet pipe, dry pipe, deluge, and pre-action systems—and explain when and where each one should be used.
What It Is:
The most common and simplest type, the wet pipe system is always filled with water. When a sprinkler head detects high heat (typically around 155°F or 68°C), it opens, and water is immediately discharged to suppress the fire.
Where to Use It:
Wet pipe systems are ideal for places where temperatures stay above freezing, such as:
- Office buildings
- Schools
- Hotels
- Residential apartments
- Hospitals
Why Choose It:
- Quick response time
- Low cost and low maintenance
- Simple design, easy to install
What It Is:
In a dry pipe system, the pipes are filled with compressed air or nitrogen, not water. When a sprinkler head opens, the air is released, and water flows in to put out the fire. This slight delay is acceptable in some environments but necessary where freezing could be an issue.
Where to Use It:
Best for unheated or cold environments, such as:
- Parking garages
- Warehouses in cold climates
- Industrial freezers
- Outdoor loading docks
Why Choose It:
- Prevents pipe damage from freezing water
- Suitable for environments below 4°C (40°F)
- Still effective despite a brief delay in water discharge
What It Is:
In this system, all sprinkler heads are open at all times, and the pipes are dry until a fire detection system activates a deluge valve, which releases water to all heads at once. It’s designed to flood an area quickly.
Where to Use It:
Ideal for high-hazard areas where fire can spread rapidly, such as:
- Power plants
- Aircraft hangars
- Chemical processing facilities
- Fuel storage tanks
Why Choose It:
- Rapid, large-scale water discharge
- Effective for high-risk or explosive fire scenarios
- Often used alongside heat or smoke detection systems
What It Is:
A hybrid of wet and dry systems, pre-action systems have dry pipes, but they only fill with water when two triggers occur: a fire detection system senses danger and a sprinkler head activates. This prevents accidental discharge from false alarms.
Where to Use It:
Best for areas with sensitive or valuable equipment, such as:
- Data centers
- Museums or archives
- Libraries
- Art galleries
- Telecommunication hubs
Why Choose It:
- Adds a layer of protection against accidental water damage
- Suitable for spaces where property value or data security is high
- Requires both detection and heat activation to release water
Fire safety engineers and MEP designers choose a sprinkler system based on factors like:
- Ambient temperature of the space
- Type of occupancy and materials stored
- Response time needed
- Risk of water damage
- Building codes and fire regulations
For example, a school may use a wet pipe system for simplicity, while a museum with priceless items may require a pre-action system for extra caution.
Fire sprinkler systems are not one-size-fits-all. Each type—wet pipe, dry pipe, deluge, and pre-action—is designed for a specific environment and purpose. Choosing the right one can mean faster response, better protection, and minimized damage. Whether you’re designing a home, a warehouse, or a tech hub, understanding these systems helps you create a safer space for everyone inside.