Typical Costs of Installing Water Mist Systems

There are various types of systems on the market, some better than others, some need much more builders work than others. Most claim compliance with the relevant standard BS:8458 domestic and residential water mist systems, but not all.  Some use an NHBC type approval scheme.

Your building control officer must be consulted at an early stage so that the customer selects and installs a system which will not be rejected. There is also a mobile system called PPS (personal protection system) which is intended for temporary applications to an occupant who is largely immobile and is at high risk, for example such as smoking in bed.

There is a commercial water mist standard BS8489 to which very few contractors have the capability to design and install.

Here at nationwide fire, we are fully qualified and very experienced in the design and installation of both types of watermist systems, and in addition are also one of very few who hold third party accreditation.

Pro’s and con’s

Ceiling mounted high pressure – less damage during installation, discreet fittings on ceilings, lower installation costs, no risk of obstructing nozzles with furniture, but high pressure systems risk explosive reactions to bursting. Many high pressure systems use aluminium nozzles which will corrode and may seize causing the internal holding pin to fail to release upon activation.

 Ceiling mounted low pressure – Nationwide’s products are all made of the best stainless steel, so no corrosion. Nozzles tried and tested by the BRE (building research establishment) for performance and for simulated aging testing and all have passed these tests. Less damage during installation, discreet fittings on ceilings, lower installation costs than high pressure systems, no risk of obstructing the nozzles, no risk of explosive bursting, our pipe work is  industry approved, tried and tested for over 40 years.

 Conclusions

The customer has their own choice, but should seek agreement with their building control officer prior to committing to placing their order with someone offering a system which may not be the best solution.

Ask yourself these questions;

1. Is the system fully compliant
2. Does the system only use stainless steel nozzles
3. Does the company hold third party accreditation
4. Do you understand just how much builders work will be needed (for wall mounted systems)
5. Will you be left with pipes in your house at near 1500 PSI (about 50 times as much as in your car tyres)