How to Build an Inside Sprinkler System

Find the area in your building that presents the highest risk of a fire breaking out. In residential buildings, this is most often the kitchen. Classify your building into the correct risk category before the design of your sprinkler system begins. Many factors go into classifying your building. The products your building is made from, ceiling measurements, egress, the amount of floor space your building has and the purpose the building is used for all help to determine your risk category. Place your building in the light-ordinary, ordinary, or extra hazard group (see the Resource section). Most houses will fall into the "ordinary" category.

Calculate how much water will be needed to put out a fire in the area of highest risk. According to the National Fire Academy, to determine the amount of water you'll need you will first have to determine the area of your building. Multiply the width by the length of the room that has the most risk. Divide that number by 1/3 to determine the gallons per minute (GPM). Add 25 percent of the GPM for each additional room in your building.

Have a plumber evaluate your water pressure to assure it's high enough to supply your indoor water sprinklers. Most homes will need their water pressure to be at least 100 psi. Have an additional water storage tank installed, if needed, for additional water pressure.

Calculate the amount of water needed per square foot of building by using computer software designed specifically for these calculations. The software will take into consideration the water pressure, differences in elevation, sprinkler heads and other complicated information to help you determine the most appropriate design for your indoor water sprinkler system.

Select which type of indoor sprinkler system best suits your needs, depending on your budget and the hazard risk group in which your building falls. Control mode sprinklers are the most common style. For most homes, residential sprinklers are an appropriate choice. If your building houses highly flammable materials, consider using a suppression sprinkler. Other options include fast-response, which is best for light hazard buildings. Water mist styles are often used in areas in which water damage can also present a threat.

Hire a reputable contractor to install your sprinkler system. Ask a representative if the person or company is certified and what kind of guarantees it offers. Ask the installer to provide you with a certificate that you can send to your insurance company as proof of installation.