A gas fire suppression system (e.g., FM-200, CO₂, Novec 1230, Inergen) requires routine maintenance to ensure optimal performance, reliability, and regulatory compliance. Regular inspections, testing, and documentation help prevent failures and ensure that the system functions correctly during an emergency. This guide outlines an effective maintenance procedure and a detailed inspection checklist to streamline the process.
1. Routine Maintenance Schedule
Frequency
Maintenance Task
Weekly
Visual inspection of cylinders, piping, and pressure gauges.
Monthly
Verify cylinder pressure, inspect nozzles for blockages, and check control panel functionality.
Quarterly
Test alarm and notification systems to ensure proper operation.
Annually
Conduct a full system test, inspect cylinder weight, seals, and look for leaks.
Every 5 Years
Perform hydrostatic cylinder testing and full system recalibration.
2. Gas Fire Suppression System Maintenance Procedure
A. Weekly Visual Inspection
Check for physical damage, leaks, or corrosion on gas cylinders.
Inspect pressure gauges for any abnormal readings.
Ensure valves and actuators are properly secured and clear of obstructions.
B. Monthly System Checks
Verify cylinder pressure remains within the specified range (typically 360-600 psi for FM-200).
Weigh cylinders to ensure adequate gas levels for suppression effectiveness.
Check seals, valve stems, and discharge hoses for wear, cracks, or leaks.
Ensure nozzles are free from dust, dirt, and other blockages.
Inspect piping connections for corrosion, leaks, or improper fittings.
Confirm that gas discharge alignment covers the required area.
C. Quarterly Control Panel & Alarm Testing
Test the fire alarm system integration to ensure instant activation.
Check manual release stations and abort switches for proper functionality.
Inspect the control panel for fault signals or error codes.
D. Annual Full System Evaluation
Conduct a functional system test (without gas discharge).
Perform a Room Integrity Test (Door Fan Test) to confirm the space retains gas effectively.
Inspect actuation devices such as solenoids and pneumatic actuators.
Verify the automatic triggering mechanisms and backup power supply.
E. Five-Year Hydrostatic Testing & Refill
Conduct hydrostatic pressure testing on cylinders to detect leaks or weaknesses.
Refill or replace depleted gas cylinders based on test results.
Update gas concentration levels and validate fire suppression effectiveness.
3. Gas Fire Suppression System Maintenance Checklist
Inspection Task
Frequency
Status (Check/Comment)
Check for physical damage, leaks, or corrosion on gas cylinders.
Weekly
Inspect pressure gauges for correct readings.
Weekly
Ensure valves and actuators are secured and unobstructed.
Weekly
Verify cylinder pressure is within the specified range.
Monthly
Weigh cylinders to ensure correct gas levels.
Monthly
Check seals, valve stems, and discharge hoses for wear or leaks.
Monthly
Ensure nozzles are free from dust, debris, or blockages.
Monthly
Inspect piping connections for leaks, corrosion, or misalignment.
Monthly
Confirm gas discharge alignment covers the required area.
Monthly
Test fire detection and alarm system integration.
Quarterly
Ensure manual release stations and abort switches function correctly.
Quarterly
Check for fault signals or system errors in the control panel.
Quarterly
Conduct a functional discharge test (without gas release).
