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NFPA
®

13D
Standard for the
Installation of Sprinkler U S E
O N L Y

Systems in One- and A L

Two-Family Dwellings and
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Manufactured Homes
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2019 IN
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F Customer ID

63577750
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ISBN: 978-145592048-8 (PDF)

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13D-1

Copyright © 2018 National Fire Protection Association®. All Rights Reserved.

NFPA® 13D

Standard for the

Installation of Sprinkler Systems in One- and Two-Family Dwellings and

Manufactured Homes
2019 Edition

This edition of NFPA 13D, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems in One- and Two-Family
Dwellings and Manufactured Homes, was prepared by the Technical Committee on Residential
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Sprinkler Systems, released by the Correlating Committee on Automatic Sprinkler Systems, and
acted on by NFPA at its June Association Technical Meeting held June 11-14, 2018, in Las Vegas, NV.
It was issued by the Standards Council on August 14, 2018, with an effective date of September 3,
2018, and supersedes all previous editions.
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This edition of NFPA 13D was approved as an American National Standard on September 3, 2018.

Origin and Development of NFPA 13D

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Recognizing the need to reduce the annual life loss from fire in residential occupancies (about 50
percent of total loss of life by fire), the Committee on Automatic Sprinklers appointed a
subcommittee in May 1973 to prepare the Standard on the Installation of Sprinkler Systems in One- and
Two-Family Dwellings and Mobile Homes. The subcommittee was composed of members of the

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Committee on Automatic Sprinklers and other technically competent experts. The standard was
submitted and adopted at the NFPA Annual Meeting in Chicago, Illinois, on May 12–16, 1975.
The 1980 edition was a complete rewrite of the 1975 edition, including SI units where
appropriate. The 1980 edition incorporated the results of the residential sprinkler test program
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administered by the National Fire Protection Association and funded by a research grant from the
United States Fire Administration. Factory Mutual Research Corporation and the Los Angeles City

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Fire Department conducted the dwelling tests. Factory Mutual Research Corporation, McNeary
Insurance Consulting Services, and the Charlotte, North Carolina, Fire Department conducted the
mobile home tests.

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After gaining practical experience using the 1980 edition, modifications to the standard,

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including removal of design parameters for dry pipe systems, were made in the 1984 edition.
The 1989 and 1991 editions established criteria for the use of antifreeze systems as well as some of
the installation criteria associated with specially listed piping materials.

O R The 1994 edition provided expanded information on nonmetallic pipe and introduced a new
design option that reduced water storage requirements for limited area dwellings.
The 1996 edition of the standard included expanded information on the use and placement of

F residential sprinklers near heat sources. For the first time since 1941, the use of ½ in. (12.7 mm)
piping material was permitted again for sprinkler systems under specific conditions. A number of
appendix figures were also added to address methods for protecting pipe from freezing in unheated
attics.
The 1999 edition revised criteria for certain types of multipurpose piping systems and added
requirements to mitigate the effect of water softeners and filters on system performance.
Information on the application of solvent cement for nonmetallic piping systems was provided, and
the exception for omitting sprinkler coverage in attics and crawl spaces was modified.
The 2002 edition incorporated revisions to update the standard to comply with the 2000 edition
of the Manual of Style for NFPA Technical Committee Documents. These revisions included editorially
rewording any exceptions as requirements. The 2002 edition also included changes that established
a minimum design discharge density. The requirements for multipurpose systems were changed to
require a bypass valve for installations with water softeners or water filtration equipment installed

NFPA and National Fire Protection Association are registered trademarks of the National Fire Protection Association, Quincy, Massachusetts 02169.
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
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13D-2 INSTALLATION OF SPRINKLER SYSTEMS IN ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS AND MANUFACTURED HOMES

and to update the requirements for network systems. The chapter specifically addressing limited area dwelling systems was no
longer included in the standard.
The 2007 edition included new spacing and obstruction rules addressing sloped ceilings, ceiling pockets, ceiling fans, and
kitchen cabinets. Also new to this edition were installation, design, and acceptance requirements for pumps. The acceptability
of insulation as a method of freeze protection and the acceptability of wells as a water source were clarified for this edition.
New requirements for listed dry pipe/preaction residential sprinkler systems, as well as clarified requirements for multipurpose
combined and networked sprinkler systems, were incorporated. Finally, specific obstruction rules were added for residential
sprinklers.
In the 2010 edition, new requirements were added for a prescriptive pipe sizing method as an alternative to the hydraulic
calculation method. The standard added the term townhouses to the definition of dwelling to clarify that townhouses that meet
the definition of dwelling can be protected by an NFPA 13D system. Finally, annex material was added to provide clear guidance
for the owner on how to properly inspect, test, and maintain the system.
The 2013 edition of NFPA 13D included a restructuring to make the document easier to use. Four new chapters were
added, breaking out freeze protection, acceptance testing, maintenance, and discharge criteria into their own chapters. This
edition has also seen modification to the definitions of multipurpose and stand-alone systems, along with a new definition for
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passive purge systems. New language addressing the number of heads to be calculated for certain sloped and beamed ceiling
configurations was added based on a Fire Protection Research Foundation report. The antifreeze requirements were updated
through a series of TIAs that were developed based on FPRF testing.
Several significant revisions were made during the development of the 2016 edition. A new figure addressed positioning of O N
insulation practice using tenting in an attic or concealed space. One of the largest changes to the 2016 edition of NFPA 13D
was the review of all metric conversions. Historically the document had used an "exact" conversion process, but in the 2016
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sprinklers to avoid obstructions where there are sloped ceilings. Clarification was added that once a sprinkler is removed from
a fitting or welded outlet it should not be reinstalled if torque was applied to the sprinkler itself. A new sketch showed an

the United States.

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edition an approximate conversion process was used. The intent of this change was to make the document more usable outside

The 2019 edition adds beam rules for sprinklers installed under and adjacent to beams (along with new figures),

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requirements for closets where ventless clothes dryers are installed, and requirements where pressure-reducing and pressure-
regulating valves are installed. A section has been added to Chapter 12 to address inactive systems in structures left vacant for a
period of time. Requirements for the use of well pumps as a water supply have been clarified. In addition, images have been
added to clarify sprinkler location and clearances needed around fireplaces.

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2019 Edition
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

COMMITTEE PERSONNEL 13D-3

Correlating Committee on Automatic Sprinkler Systems

Kenneth W. Linder, Chair
Swiss Re, CT [I]

Jose R. Baz, JRB Associates Group Inc., FL [M] Charles W. Ketner, National Automatic Sprinkler Fitters LU 669,
Rep. NFPA Latin American Section MD [L]
Kerry M. Bell, UL LLC, IL [RT] Rep. United Assn. of Journeymen & Apprentices of the
Plumbing & Pipe Fitting Industry
Tracey D. Bellamy, Telgian Corporation, GA [U]
Rep. The Home Depot John A. LeBlanc, FM Global, MA [I]
Scott T. Franson, The Viking Corporation, MI [M] David O. Lowrey, City of Boulder Fire Rescue, CO [E]
Michael J. Friedman, Friedman Consulting, Inc., MD [SE] Brock Mitchell, Extended Stay Hotels, NC [U]
Luke Hilton, Liberty Mutual Property, NC [I] Garner A. Palenske, Jensen Hughes/AON Fire Protection

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Engineering, CA [SE]
Alex Hoffman, Viking Fire Protection Inc., Canada [IM]
Rep. JENSEN HUGHES

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Rep. Canadian Automatic Sprinkler Association
Adam Seghi, Coda Risk Analysis, TX [I]
Mark Hopkins, National Fire Sprinkler Association, MD [M]
Douglas Paul Stultz, U.S. Department of the Navy, VA [E]

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Rep. National Fire Sprinkler Association
Roland J. Huggins, American Fire Sprinkler Association, Inc., TX J. Michael Thompson, GHD/The Protection Engineering Group,
[IM] PC, VA [SE]
Sultan M. Javeri, SC Engineering, France [IM]

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Alternates
Roland A. Asp, National Fire Sprinkler Association, Inc., MD [M] Scott T. Martorano, The Viking Corporation, MI [M]
(Alt. to Mark Hopkins)
Ralph E. Bless, Jr., Telgian Corporation, GA [U]
(Alt. to Tracey D. Bellamy)
James P. Carroll, Liberty Mutual Insurance, FL [I]
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(Alt. to Scott T. Franson)
Jack A. Medovich, Fire & Life Safety America, MD [IM]
(Alt. to Roland J. Huggins)
John G. O'Neill, GHD/The Protection Engineering Group, PC, VA
(Alt. to Luke Hilton)
Bruce H. Clarke, American International Group, Inc. (AIG), NC [I]
(Alt. to Adam Seghi)
Russell P. Fleming, Northeast Fire Suppression Associates, LLC, NH
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[SE]
(Alt. to J. Michael Thompson)
Lawrence Richard Phillips, U.S. Department of the Navy, VA [E]
(Alt. to Douglas Paul Stultz)
[SE]
(Alt. to Michael J. Friedman)
David B. Fuller, FM Approvals, RI [I]
{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717} D U Donato A. Pirro, Electro Sistemas De Panama, S.A., Panama [M]
(Alt. to Jose R. Baz)
Jason W. Ryckman, Canadian Automatic Sprinkler Association,
(Alt. to John A. LeBlanc)
Jeffrey E. Harper, JENSEN HUGHES, IL [SE]

V I Canada [IM]
(Alt. to Alex Hoffman)

I
(Alt. to Garner A. Palenske) Joseph Su, National Research Council of Canada, Canada [RT]
Jeff Hebenstreit, UL LLC, IL [RT] (Voting Alt.)

D
(Alt. to Kerry M. Bell)

Nonvoting

Corporation, IL [SE]
IN
James B. Biggins, TUV SUD America Inc./Global Risk Consultants

Rep. TC on Hanging & Bracing of Water-Based Systems

Russell B. Leavitt, Telgian Corporation, AZ [U]
Rep. TC on Sprinkler System Discharge Criteria
Kenneth W. Wagoner, Parsley Consulting Engineers, CA [SE]

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Robert G. Caputo, Fire & Life Safety America, AZ [M]
Rep. TC on Foam-Water Sprinklers
Raymond A. Grill, Arup, DC [SE]
Rep. TC on Sprinkler System Installation Criteria
Rep. TC on Private Water Supply Piping Systems
John J. Walsh, UA Joint Apprenticeship Committee Local 669, MD
[SE]
Rep. United Assn. of Journeymen & Apprentices of the

F Kenneth E. Isman, University of Maryland, MD [SE]

Rep. TC on Residential Sprinkler Systems
William E. Koffel, Koffel Associates, Inc., MD [SE]
Rep. Safety to Life Correlating Committee
Plumbing & Pipe Fitting Industry
(Member Emeritus)

David R. Hague, NFPA Staff Liaison

Chad Duffy, NFPA Co-Staff Liaison

This list represents the membership at the time the Committee was balloted on the final text of this edition.
Since that time, changes in the membership may have occurred. A key to classifications is found at the
back of the document.

2019 Edition
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

13D-4 INSTALLATION OF SPRINKLER SYSTEMS IN ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS AND MANUFACTURED HOMES

NOTE: Membership on a committee shall not in and of itself constitute an endorsement of

the Association or any document developed by the committee on which the member serves.

Committee Scope: This Committee shall have overall responsibility for documents that
pertain to the criteria for the design and installation of automatic, open and foam-water
sprinkler systems including the character and adequacy of water supplies, and the selection
of sprinklers, piping, valves, and all materials and accessories. This Committee does not
cover the installation of tanks and towers, nor the installation, maintenance, and use of
central station, proprietary, auxiliary, and local signaling systems for watchmen, fire alarm,
supervisory service, nor the design of fire department hose connections.

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2019 Edition
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

COMMITTEE PERSONNEL 13D-5

Technical Committee on Residential Sprinkler Systems

Kenneth E. Isman, Chair
University of Maryland, MD [SE]

Roland A. Asp, National Fire Sprinkler Association, Inc., MD [M] Maurice M. Pilette, Mechanical Designs Ltd., MA [SE]
Kerry M. Bell, UL LLC, IL [RT] Milosh T. Puchovsky, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, MA [SE]
Fred Benn, Advanced Automatic Sprinkler, Inc., CA [IM] Bruce Schultz, The City of Calgary, Canada [E]
Jonathan C. Bittenbender, REHAU Incorporated, VA [M] Peter T. Schwab, Wayne Automatic Fire Sprinklers, Inc., FL [IM]
Frederick C. Bradley, FCB Engineering, GA [SE] Eric J. Skare, Uponor, Inc., MN [M]
Chase A. Browning, Medford Fire Rescue, OR [E] George W. Stanley, Wiginton Fire Protection Engineering, Inc., FL
Daniel Buuck, National Association of Home Builders, DC [U] [IM]
Rep. National Association of Home Builders Michael Towler, Legacy Fire Protection Inc., Canada [IM]
Bradford T. Cronin, Newport Fire Department, RI [E]
Thomas G. Deegan, Viking Group, Inc., MI [M]
Rep. National Fire Sprinkler Association
Rep. Canadian Automatic Sprinkler Association
Donald R. Townley, Lubrizol, OH [M]
Martin C. W. Trim, Barrett Engineered Pumps, CA [SE]
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Jeffrey Feid, State Farm Insurance Company, IL [I] Rep. American Society of Plumbing Engineers
Charles W. Ketner, National Automatic Sprinkler Fitters LU 669, Ed Van Walraven, Aspen Fire Protection District, CO [E]
MD [L]
Rep. United Assn. of Journeymen & Apprentices of the
Plumbing & Pipe Fitting Industry
John F. Viola, JFV Engineering, LLC, MA [IM]
Rep. American Fire Sprinkler Association O
Terry L. Victor, Johnson Controls/Tyco/SimplexGrinnell, MD [M]

Ronald G. Nickson, National Multifamily Housing Council, NC [U]

Thomas William Noble, American Fire Sprinkler Association, TX
[IM]
Michael O'Brian, Brighton Area Fire Authority, MI [E]
E
Ronald N. Webb, S.A. Comunale Company, Inc., OH [IM]
Rep. National Fire Sprinkler Association

S
Hong-Zeng Yu, FM Global, MA [I]

Rep. International Association of Fire Chiefs

Jon R. Ackley, Dalmatian Fire, Inc., IN [M]

Alternates

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Angele Morcos, FM Global, MA [I]
(Alt. to Roland A. Asp)
Robert S. Blach, Menlo Park Fire Protection District, CA [E]
(Alt. to Michael O'Brian)
Katherine M. Clay, Jackson Hole Fire/EMS, WY [E]
U A [M]
(Alt. to Hong-Zeng Yu)
Thomas L. Multer, Reliable Automatic Sprinkler Company, Inc., SC

(Alt. to Thomas G. Deegan)

{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
(Alt. to Ed Van Walraven)
Samuel S. Dannaway, Coffman Engineers/S. S. Dannaway
I D David A. Nickelson, REHAU Incorporated, VA [M]
(Alt. to Jonathan C. Bittenbender)

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Associates, Inc., HI [SE] Ernie Paez, CAL FIRE, Office of the State Fire Marshal, CA [E]
(Alt. to Martin C. W. Trim)

Products, WI [M]
(Alt. to Terry L. Victor)
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Mark E. Fessenden, Johnson Controls/Tyco Fire Protection
(Voting Alt.)
Ryan Peterson, Wayne Auto Fire Sprinklers, FL [IM]
(Alt. to Peter T. Schwab)
William Roberts, Quick Response Fire Protection, NJ [IM]

IN
Forest Hampton, Lubrizol Advanced Materials, Inc., OH [M] (Alt. to Ronald N. Webb)
(Alt. to Donald R. Townley) Erne Rodriguez, Jr., Wiginton Fire Protection Engineering, Inc., FL
Jeff Hebenstreit, UL LLC, IL [RT] [IM]
(Alt. to Kerry M. Bell) (Alt. to George W. Stanley)

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Marshall A. Klein, Marshall A. Klein & Associates, Inc., MD [U]
(Alt. to Ronald G. Nickson)
Gary Lampella, National Association of Home Builders (NAHB),
DC [U]
Jason W. Ryckman, Canadian Automatic Sprinkler Association,
Canada [IM]
(Alt. to Michael Towler)
Timothy J. Skinner, National Automatic Sprinkler Fitters LU 669,

F (Alt. to Daniel Buuck)

James R. Lugar, JENSEN HUGHES, MD [SE]
(Voting Alt.)
Daniel J. Mathias, Absolute Fire Protection, Inc., MD [IM]
(Alt. to Thomas William Noble)
OH [L]
(Alt. to Charles W. Ketner)
Brent Zimiga, Rapid Fire Protection Inc., SD [IM]
(Alt. to John F. Viola)

Dan Mendoza, Advanced Automatic Sprinkler, CA [IM]

(Alt. to Fred Benn)

Nonvoting
Rohit Khanna, U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, MD [C]

2019 Edition
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

13D-6 INSTALLATION OF SPRINKLER SYSTEMS IN ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS AND MANUFACTURED HOMES

Chad Duffy, NFPA Staff Liaison

David R. Hague, NFPA Co-Staff Liaison

This list represents the membership at the time the Committee was balloted on the final text of this edition.
Since that time, changes in the membership may have occurred. A key to classifications is found at the
back of the document.

NOTE: Membership on a committee shall not in and of itself constitute an endorsement of

the Association or any document developed by the committee on which the member serves.

Committee Scope: This Committee shall have primary responsibility for documents on the
design and installation of automatic sprinkler systems in dwellings and residential
occupancies up to and including four stories in height, including the character and
adequacy of water supplies, and the selection of sprinklers, piping, valves, and all materials
and accessories. In addition, this Committee shall have primary responsibility of inspection,
testing, and maintenance requirements for sprinkler systems installed in one- and two-family
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dwellings and manufactured homes.

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2019 Edition
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

CONTENTS 13D-7

Contents

Chapter 1 Administration ............................................ 13D– 8 Chapter 7 Installation ................................................... 13D– 14

1.1 Scope. ................................................................... 13D– 8 7.1 Valves. ................................................................... 13D– 14
1.2 Purpose. ............................................................... 13D– 8 7.2 Drains and Test Connections. ............................. 13D– 15
1.3 Retroactivity. ......................................................... 13D– 8 7.3 Pressure Gauges. .................................................. 13D– 15
1.4 Equivalency. ......................................................... 13D– 8 7.4 Piping Support. .................................................... 13D– 15
1.5 Units. .................................................................... 13D– 8 7.5 Sprinklers. ............................................................ 13D– 15
1.6 New Technology. .................................................. 13D– 9 7.6 Alarms. ................................................................. 13D– 15
7.7 Attics. .................................................................... 13D– 15
Chapter 2 Referenced Publications ............................ 13D– 9
2.1 General. ................................................................ 13D– 9 Chapter 8 Sprinkler Position and Location ................ 13D– 16
2.2 NFPA Publications. .............................................. 13D– 9 8.1 Design Criteria. .................................................... 13D– 16

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2.3 Other Publications. ............................................. 13D– 9 8.2 Position of Sprinklers. ......................................... 13D– 16
2.4 References for Extracts in Mandatory Sections. 13D– 9 8.3 Location of Sprinklers. ........................................ 13D– 20

Chapter
3.1
3.2
3 Definitions ...................................................
General. ................................................................
NFPA Official Definitions. ..................................
13D– 10
13D– 10
13D– 10
Chapter
9.1
9.2
9 Protection from Freezing ...........................

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System Types. .......................................................
Antifreeze Systems. ..............................................
L 13D– 21
13D– 21
13D– 22

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3.3 General Definitions. ............................................ 13D– 10 9.3 Dry Pipe and Preaction Systems. ........................ 13D– 22

Chapter 4 General Requirements ............................... 13D– 11 Chapter 10 Discharge and Hydraulic Calculations ...... 13D– 23

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4.1 Sprinkler Temperature Ratings. ......................... 13D– 11 10.1 Design Discharge. ................................................ 13D– 23
4.2 Tube. ..................................................................... 13D– 11 10.2 Number of Design Sprinklers. ............................ 13D– 23

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4.3 Listed or Labeled. ................................................ 13D– 11 10.3 Piping Configurations. ........................................ 13D– 24
4.4 Documentation. ................................................... 13D– 11 10.4 Pipe Sizing. ........................................................... 13D– 24

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4.5 Qualifications. ...................................................... 13D– 11
Chapter 11 System Acceptance ...................................... 13D– 34
Chapter 5 System Components ................................... 13D– 11 11.1 General. ................................................................ 13D– 34
5.1
5.2
5.3
5.4
General. ................................................................
Aboveground Pipe and Equipment. ...................
Water Supply Pipe and Fittings. ..........................
Pre-Engineered Systems. .....................................
13D– 11
13D– 12

A
13D– 13
13D– 13 12.1
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11.2 Acceptance Tests. .................................................

Chapter 12 Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance .......

General. ................................................................
13D– 34

13D– 34
13D– 34

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12.2 Inspections and Tests. .......................................... 13D– 34
Chapter 6 Water Supply ............................................... 13D– 13 12.3 Maintenance. ....................................................... 13D– 34

D
6.1 General Provisions. .............................................. 13D– 13
{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
I
6.2 Water Supply Sources. ......................................... 13D– 13 Annex A Explanatory Material .................................. 13D– 35
6.3 Multipurpose Piping System. .............................. 13D– 14

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Annex B Informational References .......................... 13D– 60
6.4 Manufactured Home Water Supply. ................... 13D– 14
6.5

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Common Supply Pipes. ....................................... 13D– 14 Index ..................................................................... 13D– 61

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2019 Edition
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

13D-8 INSTALLATION OF SPRINKLER SYSTEMS IN ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS AND MANUFACTURED HOMES

NFPA 13D 1.1.3 This standard shall be based on the concept that the
sprinkler system is designed to protect against a fire originating
Standard for the from a single ignition location.
1.2* Purpose.
Installation of Sprinkler Systems in One- and
1.2.1 The purpose of this standard shall be to provide a sprin‐
Two-Family Dwellings and Manufactured kler system that aids in the detection and control of residential
Homes fires and thus provides improved protection against injury and
life loss.
2019 Edition 1.2.2 A sprinkler system shall be designed and installed in
accordance with this standard to prevent flashover (total
IMPORTANT NOTE: This NFPA document is made available for involvement) in the room of fire origin, where sprinklered, and

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use subject to important notices and legal disclaimers. These notices to improve the chance for occupants to escape or be evacuated.
and disclaimers appear in all publications containing this document
and may be found under the heading “Important Notices and
Disclaimers Concerning NFPA Standards.” They can also be viewed
at [Link]/disclaimers or obtained on request from NFPA.
UPDATES, ALERTS, AND FUTURE EDITIONS: New editions of
1.3 Retroactivity. The provisions of this standard reflect a
consensus of what is necessary to provide an acceptable degree

the time the standard was issued.

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of protection from the hazards addressed in this standard at L
NFPA codes, standards, recommended practices, and guides (i.e.,
NFPA Standards) are released on scheduled revision cycles. This
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1.3.1 Unless otherwise specified, the provisions of this stand‐
ard shall not apply to facilities, equipment, structures, or instal‐

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edition may be superseded by a later one, or it may be amended lations that existed or were approved for construction or
outside of its scheduled revision cycle through the issuance of Tenta‐ installation prior to the effective date of the standard. Where

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tive Interim Amendments (TIAs). An official NFPA Standard at any specified, the provisions of this standard shall be retroactive.
point in time consists of the current edition of the document, together
1.3.2 In those cases where the authority having jurisdiction

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with all TIAs and Errata in effect. To verify that this document is the
current edition or to determine if it has been amended by TIAs or determines that the existing situation presents an unacceptable
Errata, please consult the National Fire Codes® Subscription Service degree of risk, the authority having jurisdiction shall be permit‐
or the “List of NFPA Codes & Standards” at [Link]/docinfo.
In addition to TIAs and Errata, the document information pages also
include the option to sign up for alerts for individual documents and
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ted to apply retroactively any portions of this standard deemed
appropriate.
1.3.3 The retroactive requirements of this standard shall be

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to be involved in the development of the next edition. permitted to be modified if their application clearly would be
NOTICE: An asterisk (*) following the number or letter impractical in the judgment of the authority having jurisdic‐

D
designating a paragraph indicates that explanatory material on tion, and only where it is clearly evident that a reasonable
{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
the paragraph can be found in Annex A.
A reference in brackets [ ] following a section or paragraph
indicates material that has been extracted from another NFPA

V I degree of safety is provided.

1.4 Equivalency. Nothing in this standard is intended to

D I
document. As an aid to the user, the complete title and edition
of the source documents for extracts in mandatory sections of
the document are given in Chapter 2 and those for extracts in
informational sections are given in Annex B. Extracted text
prevent the use of systems, methods, or devices of equivalent or
superior quality, strength, fire resistance, effectiveness, durabil‐
ity, and safety over those prescribed by this standard.

IN
may be edited for consistency and style and may include the 1.4.1 Technical documentation shall be submitted to the
revision of internal paragraph references and other references authority having jurisdiction to demonstrate equivalency.
as appropriate. Requests for interpretations or revisions of 1.4.2 The system, method, or device shall be approved for the

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extracted text shall be sent to the technical committee respon‐ intended purpose by the authority having jurisdiction.
sible for the source document.
1.5 Units.

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Information on referenced publications can be found in
Chapter 2 and Annex B. 1.5.1* Metric units of measurement in this standard shall be

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1.1* Scope.
Chapter 1 Administration
in accordance with the modernized metric system known as the
International System of Units (SI).
1.5.2 The liter and bar units shall be permitted to be used in
this standard.
1.1.1 This standard shall cover the design, installation, and 1.5.3 The conversion factors for liter, pascal, and bar shall be
maintenance of automatic sprinkler systems for protection in accordance with Table 1.5.3.
against the fire hazards in one- and two-family dwellings and
manufactured homes. 1.5.4* Where a value for measurement as specified in this
standard is followed by an equivalent value in other units, the
1.1.2 This standard shall not provide requirements for the first stated value shall be regarded as the requirement.
design or installation of water mist fire protection systems,
which are not considered fire sprinkler systems and are 1.5.5 The equivalent value for a measurement in SI shall be
addressed by NFPA 750. converted by multiplying the value by the conversion factor
and then rounding the result to the appropriate number of
significant digits.

2019 Edition Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material.
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

REFERENCED PUBLICATIONS 13D-9

Table 1.5.3 Metric Conversions ASME B16.25, Buttwelding Ends, 2012.

ASME B36.10M, Welded and Seamless Wrought Steel Pipe, 2015.
Name of Unit Unit Symbol Conversion Factor
2.3.2 ASTM Publications. ASTM International, 100 Barr
liter L 1 gal = 3.785 L Harbor Drive, P.O. Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA
pascal Pa 1 psi = 6894.757 Pa 19428-2959.
bar bar 1 psi = 0.0689 bar
bar bar 1 bar = 105 Pa ASTM A53/A53M, Standard Specification for Pipe, Steel, Black
and Hot-Dipped, Zinc-Coated, Welded and Seamless, 2012.

1.6 New Technology. ASTM A135/A135M, Standard Specification for Electric-

Resistance-Welded Steel Pipe, 2009 (2014).
1.6.1 Nothing in this standard shall be intended to restrict
new technologies or alternate arrangements, provided the level ASTM A234/A234M, Standard Specification for Piping Fittings of
of safety prescribed by this standard is not lowered.
1.6.2 Materials or devices not specifically designated by this
standard shall be utilized in complete accord with all condi‐
Wrought Carbon Steel and Alloy Steel for Moderate and High Tempera‐
ture Service, 2016.
ASTM A795/A795M, Standard Specification for Black and Hot-
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tions, requirements, and limitations of their listings.

Chapter 2 Referenced Publications

Fire Protection Use, 2013.

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Dipped Zinc-Coated (Galvanized) Welded and Seamless Steel Pipe for

ASTM B32, Standard Specification for Solder Metal, 2008 (2014).

ASTM B43, Standard Specification for Seamless Red Brass Pipe,
2.1 General. The documents or portions thereof listed in this
chapter are referenced within this standard and shall be
considered part of the requirements of this document.
Standard Sizes, 2015.

Tube, 2011.
S E
ASTM B75/B75M, Standard Specification for Seamless Copper
2.2 NFPA Publications. National Fire Protection Association,
1 Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02169-7471.
NFPA 13, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems, 2019
edition.
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ASTM B88, Standard Specification for Seamless Copper Water
Tube, 2016.
ASTM B251, Standard Specification for General Requirements for
NFPA 70®, National Electrical Code®, 2017 edition.
NFPA 72®, National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code®, 2019
edition.
U A Wrought Seamless Copper and Copper-Alloy Tube, 2010.
ASTM B813, Standard Specification for Liquid and Paste Fluxes
for Soldering Applications of Copper and Copper-Alloy Tube, 2016.

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NFPA 220, Standard on Types of Building Construction, 2018
{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
edition.

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NFPA 750, Standard on Water Mist Fire Protection Systems, 2019
edition.

V
ASTM B828, Standard Practice for Making Capillary Joints by
Soldering of Copper and Copper Alloy Tube and Fittings, 2016.

2.3 Other Publications.

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2.3.1 ASME Publications. American Society of Mechanical
ASTM F437, Standard Specification for Threaded Chlorinated Poly
(Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC) Plastic Pipe Fittings, Schedule 80, 2015.
ASTM F438, Standard Specification for Socket-Type Chlorinated
Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC) Plastic Pipe Fittings, Schedule 40, 2015.

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Engineers, Two Park Avenue, New York, NY 10016-5990.
ASME B16.1, Gray Iron Pipe Flanges and Flanged Fittings, Classes ASTM F439, Standard Specification for Socket-Type Chlorinated
25, 125, and 250, 2015. Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC) Plastic Pipe Fittings, Schedule 80, 2013.

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ASME B16.3, Malleable Iron Threaded Fittings, Classes 150 and
300, 2016.

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ASME B16.4, Gray Iron Threaded Fittings, Classes 125 and 250,
ASTM F442/F442M, Standard Specification for Chlorinated Poly
(Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC) Plastic Pipe (SDR-PR), 2013 e1.
ASTM F876, Standard Specification for Crosslinked Polyethylene

F 2016.
ASME B16.5, Pipe Flanges and Flanged Fittings, NPS 1/2 through
NPS 24 Metric/Inch Standard, 2013.
ASME B16.9, Factory-Made Wrought Buttwelding Fittings, 2012.
(PEX) Tubing, 2015a.
2.3.3 AWS Publications. American Welding Society, 8669 NW
36 Street, #130, Miami, FL 33166-6672.
AWS A5.8M/A5.8, Specification for Filler Metals for Brazing and
Braze Welding, 2011.
ASME B16.11, Forged Fittings, Socket-Welding and Threaded,
2016. 2.3.4 Other Publications.

ANSI/ASME B16.15, Cast Copper Alloy Threaded Fittings: Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary, 11th edition, Merriam-
Classes 125 and 250, 2013. Webster, Inc., Springfield, MA, 2003.
•
ASME B16.18, Cast Copper Alloy Solder Joint Pressure Fittings, 2.4 References for Extracts in Mandatory Sections.
2012. NFPA 13R, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems in
ASME B16.22, Wrought Copper and Copper Alloy Solder Joint Pres‐ Low-Rise Residential Occupancies, 2019 edition.
sure Fittings, 2013. NFPA 5000®, Building Construction and Safety Code®, 2018
edition.

Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material. 2019 Edition
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

13D-10 INSTALLATION OF SPRINKLER SYSTEMS IN ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS AND MANUFACTURED HOMES

Chapter 3 Definitions the total width of the openings in a single wall does not exceed
8 ft (2.4 m) in width. A single opening of 36 in. (900 mm) or
3.1 General. The definitions contained in this chapter shall less in width without a lintel is permitted when there are no
apply to the terms used in this standard. Where terms are not other openings to adjoining spaces.
defined in this chapter or within another chapter, they shall be
defined using their ordinarily accepted meanings within the 3.3.3 Design Discharge. The rate of water discharged by an
context in which they are used. Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate automatic sprinkler expressed in gpm (mm/min).
Dictionary, 11th edition, shall be the source for the ordinarily 3.3.4 Dwelling. Any detached building, or any part of a town‐
accepted meaning. house structure that is separated from the remainder of the
3.2 NFPA Official Definitions. townhouse structure with fire resistance rated assemblies in
accordance with local building code, that contains no more
3.2.1* Approved. Acceptable to the authority having jurisdic‐ than two dwelling units intended to be used, rented, leased, let,
tion. or hired out to be occupied or that are occupied for habitation
3.2.2* Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). An organization,
office, or individual responsible for enforcing the requirements
of a code or standard, or for approving equipment, materials,
purposes.
3.3.5 Dwelling Unit. One or more rooms, arranged for the
use of one or more individuals living together, as in a single
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an installation, or a procedure.
3.2.3 Labeled. Equipment or materials to which has been
attached a label, symbol, or other identifying mark of an organ‐
ization that is acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction
and sleeping facilities.

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housekeeping unit, that normally have cooking, living, sanitary,

3.3.6* Manufactured Home. A structure, transportable in one

or more sections, which, in the traveling mode, is 8 body-ft
and concerned with product evaluation, that maintains peri‐
odic inspection of production of labeled equipment or materi‐
als, and by whose labeling the manufacturer indicates
compliance with appropriate standards or performance in a
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(2.4 m) or more in width or 40 body-ft (12 m) or more in
length or, when erected on site, is 320 ft2 (30 m2) or more and
which is built on a permanent chassis and designed to be used
as a dwelling, with or without a permanent foundation, when
specified manner.
3.2.4* Listed. Equipment, materials, or services included in a
list published by an organization that is acceptable to the
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connected to the required utilities, and includes plumbing,
heating, air-conditioning, and electrical systems contained
therein; except that such terms include any structure that
meets all the requirements of this paragraph except the size
authority having jurisdiction and concerned with evaluation of
products or services, that maintains periodic inspection of
production of listed equipment or materials or periodic evalua‐
tion of services, and whose listing states that either the equip‐
U A requirements and with respect to which the manufacturer
voluntarily files a certification required by the regulatory
agency. Calculations used to determine the number of square
feet in a structure are based on the structure's exterior dimen‐
ment, material, or service meets appropriate designated
{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
standards or has been tested and found suitable for a specified
purpose.
I D sions, measured at the largest horizontal projections when erec‐
ted on site. These dimensions include all expandable rooms,

V
cabinets, and other projections containing interior space, but
3.2.5 Shall. Indicates a mandatory requirement.

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3.2.6 Should. Indicates a recommendation or that which is
advised but not required.
do not include bay windows.
3.3.7* Premixed Antifreeze Solution. A mixture of an anti‐
freeze material with water that is prepared and factory-mixed

IN
by the manufacturer with a quality control procedure in place
3.2.7 Standard. An NFPA Standard, the main text of which that ensures that the antifreeze solution remains homogeneous
contains only mandatory provisions using the word “shall” to and that the concentration is as specified.
indicate requirements and that is in a form generally suitable

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for mandatory reference by another standard or code or for 3.3.8 Pressure.
adoption into law. Nonmandatory provisions are not to be
[Link] Supply Pressure. The pressure within the supply

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considered a part of the requirements of a standard and shall
(e.g., city or private supply water source).
be located in an appendix, annex, footnote, informational

F
note, or other means as permitted in the NFPA Manuals of
Style. When used in a generic sense, such as in the phrase
“standards development process” or “standards development
activities,” the term “standards” includes all NFPA Standards,
including Codes, Standards, Recommended Practices, and
[Link] System Pressure. The pressure within the system
(e.g., above the control valve).
[Link] System Working Pressure. The maximum anticipated
static (nonflowing) or flowing pressure applied to sprinkler
Guides. system components exclusive of surge pressures.

3.3 General Definitions. 3.3.9 Pump. A mechanical device that transfers or raises, or
transfers and raises, the pressure of a fluid (water).
N 3.3.1* Bathroom. Within a dwelling unit, any room or
compartment containing a lavatory dedicated to personal 3.3.10* Shadow Area. The dry floor area within the protec‐
hygiene, or a water closet, or bathing capability such as a tion area of a sprinkler created by the portion of sprinkler
shower or tub, or any combination of facilities thereof. discharge that is blocked by a wall or partition.

3.3.2 Compartment. A space completely enclosed by walls 3.3.11 Sprinkler.

and a ceiling. Each wall in the compartment is permitted to [Link] Automatic Sprinkler. A fire suppression or control
have openings to an adjoining space if the openings have a device that operates automatically when its heat-actuated
minimum lintel depth of 8 in. (200 mm) from the ceiling and

2019 Edition Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material.
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

SYSTEM COMPONENTS 13D-11

element is heated to its thermal rating or above, allowing 3.3.13 Townhouse. A one-family dwelling constructed in
water to discharge over a specific area. attached groups of three or more units in which each unit
extends from the foundation to the roof and has open space
[Link] Residential Sprinkler. A type of fast-response sprin‐ on at least two sides. [5000, 2018]
kler having a thermal element with an RTI of 50 (meters-
1
seconds) ∕ or less, that has been specifically investigated for
2 3.3.14 Valve.
its ability to enhance survivability in the room of fire origin, [Link] Check Valve. A valve that allows flow in one direc‐
and that is listed for use in the protection of dwelling units. tion only.
3.3.12 Sprinkler Systems. [Link]* Control Valve. An indicating valve employed to
[Link] Antifreeze Sprinkler System. A wet pipe system using control (shut) a supply of water to a sprinkler system.
automatic sprinklers that contains a liquid solution to 3.3.15 Waterflow Alarm. A sounding device activated by a
prevent freezing of the system, intended to discharge the waterflow detector or alarm check valve.
solution upon sprinkler operation, followed immediately by
water from a water supply.
[Link] Dry Pipe Sprinkler System. A sprinkler system
3.3.16 Waterflow Detector. An electric signaling indicator or
alarm check valve actuated by water flow in one direction only.
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employing automatic sprinklers that are attached to a
piping system containing air or nitrogen under pressure,
the release of which (as from the opening of a sprinkler)
permits the water pressure to open a valve known as a dry
pipe valve, and the water then flows into the piping system
4.1 Sprinkler Temperature Ratings.
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Chapter 4 General Requirements

and out the opened sprinkler.

[Link]* Multipurpose Piping Sprinkler System. A piping
system intended to serve both domestic needs in excess of a
rated sprinklers.

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4.1.1 Sprinklers having a temperature rating of 135°F to 170°F
(57°C to 77°C) shall be classified as ordinary temperature–

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single fixture and fire protection needs from one common 4.1.2 Sprinklers having a temperature rating of 175°F to 225°F
piping system throughout the dwelling unit(s). (79°C to 107°C) shall be classified as intermediate tempera‐
ture–rated sprinklers.
[Link]* Network Sprinkler System. A type of multipurpose
system utilizing a common piping system supplying domes‐
tic fixtures and fire sprinklers where each sprinkler is
A L
N 4.1.3 Sprinklers having a temperature rating of 250°F to 300°F
(121°C to 149°C) shall be classified as high temperature–rated
sprinklers.

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supplied by a minimum of three separate paths.
[Link]* Passive Purge Sprinkler System. A type of sprinkler 4.2 Tube. Wherever the word pipe is used in this standard, it

ID
shall also mean tube.
{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
system that serves a single toilet in addition to the fire sprin‐
klers. 4.3 Listed or Labeled. Listed or labeled devices and materials

V
[Link] Preaction Sprinkler System. A sprinkler system

I
employing automatic sprinklers that are attached to a
piping system that contains air that might or might not be
shall be installed and used in accordance with the listing limita‐
tions and the manufacturers' instructions unless permitted by
other sections of this document.

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under pressure, with a supplemental detection system in‐
stalled in the same areas as the sprinklers.
•
4.4* Documentation. Documentation shall be provided upon

IN
request to demonstrate that the water supply, listed devices,
[Link] Pre-Engineered Sprinkler System. A packaged sprin‐ and sprinkler coverage comply with the requirements of this
kler system including all components connected to the standard.

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water supply and designed to be installed according to 4.5 Qualifications. The layout, calculation, and installation of
pretested limitations. sprinkler systems installed in accordance with this standard

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[Link] Sprinkler System. A system that consists of an inte‐ shall only be performed by people knowledgeable and trained
grated network of piping designed in accordance with fire in such systems.

F protection engineering standards that includes a water

supply source, a water control valve, and a drain. The
portion of the sprinkler system above ground is a network of
specifically sized or hydraulically designed piping installed
in a building, structure, or area, generally overhead, and to
5.1 General.
Chapter 5 System Components

which sprinklers are attached in a systematic pattern. The 5.1.1* Only new sprinklers shall be installed in sprinkler
system is commonly activated by heat from a fire and systems.
discharges water over the fire area. [Link]* Where a sprinkler is removed from a fitting or welded
[Link]* Stand-Alone Sprinkler System. A sprinkler system outlet, it shall not be reinstalled except as permitted by
where the aboveground piping serves only fire sprinklers. [Link].1.

[Link] Wet Pipe Sprinkler System. A sprinkler system [Link].1 Dry sprinklers shall be permitted to be reinstalled
employing automatic sprinklers attached to a piping system when removed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installa‐
containing water and connected to a water supply so that tion and maintenance instructions.
water discharges immediately from sprinklers opened by [Link] Spare sprinklers shall not be required to be provided.
heat from a fire.

Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material. 2019 Edition
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

13D-12 INSTALLATION OF SPRINKLER SYSTEMS IN ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS AND MANUFACTURED HOMES

5.1.2 Except as permitted by [Link], devices and materials [Link] Nonmetallic pipe used in wet pipe sprinkler systems
used in sprinkler systems shall be listed. not equipped with a fire department connection and provided
with a pressure-reducing valve set no higher than 80 psi (5.5
[Link] The following devices and components shall not be bar) shall be designed to withstand a working pressure of not
required to be listed: less than 130 psi (9 bar) at 120°F (49°C) and 100 psi (6.9 bar)
(1) Water supply pipe and fittings at 180°F (82°C).
(2) Tanks
(3) Expansion tanks [Link].1 If the maximum static pressure from the water
(4) Connections up to 5 ft (1.5 m) long between a tank and a supply is less than or equal to 80 psi (5.5 bar), pipe designed to
pump withstand a working pressure of not less than 130 psi (9 bar) at
(5) Pumps 120°F (49°C) and 100 psi (6.9 bar) at 180°F (82°C) shall be
(6) Valves permitted to be used without a pressure-reducing valve.
(7) Gauges [Link].2 If a pressure-reducing valve is used to comply with
(8)
(9)
Waterflow detection devices
Hangers
5.2 Aboveground Pipe and Equipment.
[Link], an automatic means of pressure relief shall be installed
on the sprinkler system side of the pressure-reducing valve.
5.2.3 Types of pipe other than those specified in Table 5.2.2
L Y
5.2.1 Listed residential sprinklers installed in systems comply‐
ing with [Link], [Link], [Link], or [Link] shall be permitted to
have a minimum pressure rating of 130 psi (9 bar).
use.

O N
shall be permitted to be used where listed for sprinkler system

[Link] Pipe differing from those specified in Table 5.2.2 shall

be installed in accordance with their listings and the manufac‐

E
5.2.2* Pipe or tube used in sprinkler systems shall be of the
materials specified in Table 5.2.2 or shall be in accordance with turers' installation instructions.

S
5.2.3. [Link]* Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC) pipe and
[Link] The chemical properties, physical properties, and crosslinked polyethylene (PEX) pipe shall comply with the
dimensions of pipe materials shall be at least equivalent to the
standards cited in Table 5.2.2.
[Link]* Pipe used in sprinkler systems other than those
L U
portions of the American Society for Testing and Materials
(ASTM) standards specified in Table [Link] that apply to fire
protection service.
5.2.4 Schedule 10 steel pipe shall be permitted to be joined
addressed in [Link] or [Link] shall be designed to withstand a
working pressure of not less than 175 psi (12.2 bar).
[Link] Nonmetallic pipe used in multipurpose piping systems
and passive purge systems not equipped with a fire department
U A with mechanical groove couplings approved for service.
[Link] Where mechanical groove couplings are used to join
pipe, grooves shall be rolled on the pipe by an approved

ID
groove-rolling machine.
{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
connection shall be designed to withstand a working pressure
of not less than 130 psi (9 bar) at 120°F (49°C). 5.2.5 Fittings used in sprinkler systems shall be of the materi‐

I V als listed in Table 5.2.5 or shall be in accordance with 5.2.9.

[Link] The chemical properties, physical properties, and
Δ Table 5.2.2 Pipe or Tube Materials and Dimensions

D dimensions of fitting materials shall be at least equivalent to

the standards cited in Table 5.2.5.

IN
Materials and Dimensions Standard [Link] Fittings used in sprinkler systems other than those
Standard Specification for Black and Hot-Dipped ASTM A795/ addressed in [Link] or [Link] shall be designed to withstand a
Zinc-Coated (Galvanized) Welded and Seamless A795M working pressure of not less than 175 psi (12.1 bar).

O R
Steel Pipe for Fire Protection Use
Standard Specification for Pipe, Steel, Black and Hot-
Dipped, Zinc-Coated, Welded and Seamless
Welded and Seamless Wrought Steel Pipe
ASTM A53/
A53M
ANSI B36.10M
[Link] Nonmetallic fittings used in multipurpose piping
systems and passive purge systems not equipped with a fire
department connection shall be designed to withstand a work‐

F
Standard Specification for Electric-Resistance-Welded ASTM A135/ ing pressure of not less than 130 psi (9 bar) at 120°F (49°C).
Steel Pipe A135M
Standard Specification for Seamless Copper Tube ASTM B75/ [Link] Nonmetallic fittings used in wet pipe sprinkler systems
[Copper Tube (Drawn, Seamless)] B75M not equipped with a fire department connection and provided
Standard Specification for Seamless Copper Water ASTM B88 with a pressure-reducing valve set no higher than 80 psi (5.5
Tube bar) shall be designed to withstand a working pressure of not
Standard Specification for General Requirements for ASTM B251 less than 130 psi (9 bar) at 120°F (49°C) and 100 psi (6.9 bar)
Wrought Seamless Copper and Copper-Alloy Tube at 180°F (82°C).
Standard Specification for Liquid and Paste Fluxes ASTM B813
for Soldering Applications of Copper and Copper- [Link].1 If the maximum static pressure from the water
Alloy Tube supply is less than or equal to 80 psi (5.5 bar), fittings designed
Specification for Filler Metals for Brazing and Braze AWS A5.8M/ to withstand a working pressure of not less than 130 psi (9 bar)
Welding (BCuP, copper-phosphorus, or copper- A5.8 at 120°F (49°C) and 100 psi (6.9 bar) at 180°F (82.2°C) shall be
phosphorus-silver brazing filler metal) permitted to be used without a pressure-reducing valve.
Standard Specification for Solder Metal [alloy grades ASTM B32
containing less than 0.2 percent lead as identified [Link].2 If a pressure-reducing valve is used to comply with
in ASTM B32, Table 5, Section 1, and having a [Link], an automatic means of pressure relief shall be installed
solidus temperature that exceeds 400°F (204°C)] on the sprinkler system side of the pressure-reducing valve.
Standard Specification for Seamless Red Brass Pipe ASTM B43

2019 Edition Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material.
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

WATER SUPPLY 13D-13

Δ Table [Link] Specifically Listed Pipe or Tube Materials and Table [Link] Specifically Listed Fittings Materials and
Dimensions Dimensions

Materials and Dimensions Standard Materials and Dimensions Standard

Nonmetallic Piping: Standard Specification for Threaded Chlorinated ASTM F437
Standard Specification for Chlorinated Poly (Vinyl ASTM F442/ Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (CVPC) Plastic Pipe
Chloride) (CPVC) Plastic Pipe (SDR-PR) F442M Fittings, Schedule 80
Standard Specification for Crosslinked ASTM F876 Standard Specification for Socket-Type Chlorinated ASTM F438
Polyethylene (PEX) Tubing Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC) Plastic Pipe
Fittings, Schedule 40
Standard Specification for Socket-Type Chlorinated ASTM F439
Δ Table 5.2.5 Fitting Materials and Dimensions Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC) Plastic Pipe
Fittings, Schedule 80

Cast Iron:
Materials and Dimensions

Gray Iron Threaded Fittings, Classes 125 and 250

Standard

ASME B16.4
5.3* Water Supply Pipe and Fittings. Any type of pipe or tube
acceptable under the applicable plumbing code for above‐
L Y
Gray Iron Pipe Flanges and Flanged Fittings,
Classes 25, 125, and 250
Malleable Iron:
Malleable Iron Threaded Fittings, Classes 150 and
300
ASME B16.1

ASME B16.3
recommendations:
O N
ground or underground supply pipe shall be acceptable as a
supply for these portions of a fire sprinkler system when in‐
stalled as follows and in accordance with manufacturer’s

Steel:
Factory-Made Wrought Buttwelding Fittings
Buttwelding Ends
Standard Specification for Piping Fittings of
ASME B16.9
ASME B16.25
ASTM A234/
(1)

(2)
source

S E
Between the point of connection and the water supply

Between a remote system riser and the dwelling or home

Wrought Carbon Steel and Alloy Steel for
Moderate and High Temperature Service
Pipe Flanges and Flanged Fittings, NPS 1/2
through NPS 24 Metric/Inch Standard
A234M

ASME B16.5 U
5.4 Pre-Engineered Systems. Where listed pre-engineered
systems are installed, they shall be installed within the limita‐
tions that have been established by the testing laboratories.

L
A
Forged Fittings, Socket-Welding and Threaded ASME B16.11
Copper: Chapter 6 Water Supply

U
Wrought Copper and Copper Alloy Solder Joint ASME B16.22
Pressure Fittings 6.1 General Provisions.
Cast Copper Alloy Solder Joint Pressure Fittings ASME B16.18

{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
Cast Copper Alloy Threaded Fittings: Classes 125
and 250

I D ANSI/ASME
B16.15
6.1.1 Every automatic sprinkler system shall have at least one
automatic water supply.

I V 6.1.2 Where stored water is used as the sole source of supply,

the minimum quantity shall equal the water demand rate times
10 minutes unless permitted otherwise by 6.1.3.

D 6.1.3 Where stored water is used as the sole source of supply,

IN
5.2.6 Joints for the connection of copper tube shall be brazed the minimum quantity shall be permitted to equal the highest
on dry pipe and preaction systems. calculated water demand rate times 7 minutes where dwelling
5.2.7 Joints for the connection of copper tube for wet pipe units meet the following criteria:

R
systems and antifreeze systems shall be solder joints or be (1) One story in height
brazed. (2) Less than 2000 ft2 (185 m2) in area

F O
5.2.8 Solder joints, where permitted, shall be fabricated in
accordance with the methods and procedures listed in ASTM
B828, Standard Practice for Making Capillary Joints by Soldering of
Copper and Copper Alloy Tube and Fittings.
6.1.4 The stored water requirement of 6.1.2 or 6.1.3 shall be
permitted to be a combination of the water in the well, includ‐
ing the refill rate, plus the water in the holding tank if such
tank can supply the sprinkler system.
5.2.9 Types of fittings other than those specified in Table 5.2.5 N 6.1.5 The stored water supply requirement of 6.1.2 or 6.1.3
shall be permitted to be used where listed for sprinkler system shall be permitted to be a combination of the water in the stor‐
use. age tank and the refill rate when the refilling method is auto‐
matic.
[Link] Fittings differing from those specified in Table 5.2.5
shall be installed in accordance with their listings and the 6.2* Water Supply Sources. The following water supply sour‐
manufacturers' installation instructions. ces shall be considered to be acceptable by this standard:
[Link]* CPVC fittings shall comply with the portions of the (1) A connection to a reliable waterworks system with or with‐
ASTM standards specified in Table [Link] that apply to fire out an automatically operated pump
protection service. (2) An elevated tank
(3) A pressure tank designed to American Society of Mechan‐
5.2.10 Other joining methods investigated for suitability in ical Engineers (ASME) standards for a pressure vessel
automatic sprinkler installations and listed for this service shall with a reliable pressure source
be permitted.

Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material. 2019 Edition
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

13D-14 INSTALLATION OF SPRINKLER SYSTEMS IN ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS AND MANUFACTURED HOMES

(4) A stored water source with an automatically operated WARNING: The water system for this home supplies fire sprin‐
pump klers that require certain flows and pressures to fight a fire.
(5) A well with a pump of sufficient capacity and pressure to Devices that restrict the flow or decrease the pressure or auto‐
meet the sprinkler system demand matically shut off the water to the fire sprinkler system, such as
water softeners, filtration systems, and automatic shutoff valves,
6.2.1 Where a pump is the source of pressure for the water shall not be added to this system without a review of the fire
supply for a fire sprinkler system but is not a portion of the sprinkler system by a fire protection specialist. Do not remove
domestic water system, the following shall be met: this sign.
(1) A test connection shall be provided downstream of the
pump that creates a flow of water equal to the smallest 6.4 Manufactured Home Water Supply. For sprinklered build‐
sprinkler K-factor on the system. ings manufactured off-site, the minimum flow and pressure
(2) Pump motors using ac power shall be rated for 240 V and needed to satisfy the system design criteria on the system side
wired in accordance with the NEC (NFPA 70). of the meter shall be specified on a data plate by the manufac‐

Y
(3) Any disconnecting means for the pump shall be turer.
approved.

L
6.5 Common Supply Pipes.
(4) The pump shall be located not less than 11∕2 in. off the
floor. 6.5.1 Where common supply pipes serve both fire sprinkler

6.2.2 Where a pump and tank is the source of supply for a fire
sprinkler system but is not a portion of the domestic water
system, the requirements of 6.2.1 and the following shall be
met: O N
and domestic use, they shall comply with 6.5.2 and 6.5.3.
6.5.2 In common water supply connections serving more than
one dwelling unit, 5 gpm (20 L/min) shall be added to the
sprinkler system demand to determine the size of common
(1)
(2)
(3)
The test connection shall return water to the tank.
A method for refilling the tank shall be piped to the tank.
A method of determining the water level in the tank shall
S E
piping and the size of the total water supply requirements
where no provision is made to prevent flow into the domestic
water system upon operation of a sprinkler.
be provided without having to open the tank.
6.2.3* Where more than one dwelling unit is served by the
same water supply pipe, each dwelling unit shall have an indi‐
vidual control valve that serves the fire sprinkler system in that
(1)

L U
6.5.3 Where water treatment and filtration are installed, one
of the following conditions shall be met:
The flow restriction and pressure loss through the water
treatment equipment shall be taken into account in the
dwelling unit and the owner shall have access to the valve that
controls the sprinkler system in their unit.
[Link] The control valve shall be permitted to serve the
U A (2)
hydraulic calculations.
An automatic bypass shall be installed around the water
treatment equipment that directs all water directly to the
system.
domestic water supply.
{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
[Link] In the situation addressed by 6.2.3, no valve control‐
I D Chapter 7 Installation
ling the sprinkler system in a unit shall be located in another
unit.

I V 7.1 Valves.

D
N [Link]* Where a well pump is the source of supply for both
the fire sprinkler system and the domestic water system 6.1.4
7.1.1 A single control valve arranged to shut off both the
domestic system and the sprinkler system shall be installed

IN
and Section 6.5 shall apply. unless a separate shutoff valve for the sprinkler system is in‐
6.3* Multipurpose Piping System. stalled in accordance with 7.1.2.
7.1.2 The sprinkler system piping shall not have separate

R
6.3.1 A multipurpose piping system shall be installed in
accordance with 6.3.2 through 6.3.4. control valves installed unless supervised by one of the follow‐
ing methods:

O
6.3.2 Multipurpose piping systems shall be approved by the
local plumbing or health authority.

F
6.3.3 All piping in the system supplying sprinklers shall be
listed and conform to the piping specifications of this standard.
(1)

(2)

(3)
Central station, proprietary, or remote station alarm serv‐
ice
Local alarm service that causes the sounding of an audi‐
ble signal at a constantly attended location
Valves that are locked open
Δ [Link] Piping connected to the system that supplies only
plumbing fixtures shall comply with local plumbing and health 7.1.3 A separate shutoff valve shall be installed for the domes‐
authority requirements but is not required to be listed. tic water supply in installations other than those complying
with Section 6.3.
6.3.4 A warning sign, with minimum 1∕4 in. (6 mm) letters,
shall be affixed adjacent to the main shutoff valve and shall 7.1.4 If provided, a backflow prevention assembly that
state the following: includes a shutoff valve shall be considered a control valve, and
an additional control valve shall not be required.

2019 Edition Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material.
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

INSTALLATION 13D-15

7.2 Drains and Test Connections. 7.5.5* Quick-response spray sprinklers shall be permitted to
be used in saunas and steam rooms in accordance with
7.2.1* Each sprinkler system shall have a minimum 1∕2 in. [Link](4).
(15 mm) drain on the system side of the control valve.
7.5.6 Temperature Ratings.
7.2.2 A valve shall be installed in the drain piping.
[Link] Sprinklers installed where maximum ambient ceiling
7.2.3 A drain shall be installed for each trapped portion of a temperatures do not exceed 100°F (38°C) shall be ordinary
dry system that is subject to freezing temperatures. temperature–rated or intermediate–temperature rated sprin‐
7.2.4* Where waterflow alarms are provided, test connections klers throughout unless modified by the requirements of
shall be installed at locations that allow flow testing of water [Link].
supplies, connections, and alarm mechanisms. [Link] Sprinklers installed where maximum ambient ceiling
7.2.5 The test connections, where provided, shall contain a K- temperatures are between 101°F and 150°F (38°C and 65°C)
factor equal to or smaller than the smallest sprinkler K-factor
installed in the system.
Δ 7.2.6* Where a pressure-reducing or pressure-regulating valve
shall be intermediate temperature–rated sprinklers unless
modified by [Link].
[Link]* The following practices shall be observed when instal‐
L Y
is installed on a stand-alone system, a test connection with a K-
factor at least as large as the smallest sprinkler K-factor on the
system shall be installed downstream of the device.
7.3 Pressure Gauges.
temperatures require a higher temperature rating:
(1)

O N
ling residential sprinklers unless higher expected ambient

Sprinklers under glass or plastic skylights exposed to

direct rays of the sun shall be of intermediate tempera‐

E
ture classification.
7.3.1 Where a dry system is installed, a pressure gauge shall be (2) Sprinklers in an unventilated concealed space under an

S
installed to indicate system air pressure. uninsulated roof or in an unventilated attic shall be of
intermediate temperature classification.
7.3.2 Where a pressure tank is used for the water supply, a

U
(3)* Sprinklers installed near specific heat sources that are
pressure gauge shall be installed to indicate tank pressure. identified in Table [Link] shall be of the temperature
rating indicated in Table [Link] unless sprinklers are

L
N 7.3.3 Where a pressure-reducing or pressure-regulating valve
is installed on a stand-alone system, a pressure gauge shall be listed for positioning closer to the heat source.

A
installed downstream of the device. (4) Sprinklers installed in saunas and steam rooms where the
maximum ambient ceiling temperatures are between
7.4 Piping Support.

U
151°F and 225°F (66°C to 107°C) shall be high tempera‐
7.4.1 Listed pipe shall be supported in accordance with any ture–rated spray sprinklers.

D
listing limitations. (5) Sprinklers in closets containing ventless clothes dryers
{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
I
7.4.2 Pipe that is not listed, and listed pipe with listing limita‐

V
tions that do not include piping support requirements, shall be
shall be of the intermediate temperature classification or
higher.

I
supported from structural members using support methods
comparable to those required by applicable local plumbing
codes.

D
7.5.7* Painting and Ornamental Finishes. Sprinklers shall not
be painted or enameled unless applied by the manufacturer
and the sprinkler has been listed with such finishes.
7.5.8 Escutcheon Plates. Where nonmetallic sprinkler ceiling

IN
7.4.3 Piping laid on open joists or rafters shall be supported in
a manner that prevents lateral movement. plates (escutcheons) or recessed escutcheons (metallic or
nonmetallic) are used, they shall be listed based on testing of
7.4.4* Sprinkler piping shall be supported in a manner that the assembly as a residential sprinkler.

R
prevents the movement of piping upon sprinkler operation.
N 7.4.5* Where sprinkler piping is exposed to the sprinkler

O
protected area, it shall be supported with metal hangers or
7.5.9 Solvent Cement. Where solvent cement is used as the
pipe and fittings bonding agent, sprinklers shall not be in‐
stalled in the fittings prior to the fittings being cemented in

F hangers made of the same material as the structure. place.

7.5 Sprinklers. 7.6* Alarms. Local waterflow alarms shall be provided on all
sprinkler systems in homes not equipped with smoke alarms or
7.5.1* Listed residential sprinklers shall be used unless smoke detectors in accordance with NFPA 72.
another type is permitted by 7.5.3, 7.5.4, or 7.5.5. (See A.10.2.)
7.7 Attics. When nonmetallic piping is installed in attics,
7.5.2 Residential sprinklers shall not be used on systems other adequate insulation shall be provided on the attic side of the
than wet pipe systems unless specifically listed for use on that piping to avoid exposure of the piping to temperatures in
particular type of system. excess of the pipe's rated temperature.
7.5.3 Listed residential or quick-response standard spray dry
pendent or dry sidewall sprinklers shall be permitted to be
extended into unheated areas not intended for living purposes.
7.5.4 Quick-response sprinklers shall be permitted to be used
in mechanical closets.

Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material. 2019 Edition
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

13D-16 INSTALLATION OF SPRINKLER SYSTEMS IN ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS AND MANUFACTURED HOMES

Δ Table [Link] Minimum Distances for Ordinary and Intermediate Temperature Residential Sprinklers

From Edge From Edge

of Source to Ordinary of Source to Intermediate
Temperature Sprinkler Temperature Sprinkler
Heat Source in. mm in. mm
Side of open or recessed fireplace 36 900 12 300
Front of recessed fireplace 60 1500 36 900
Coal- or wood-burning stove 42 1050 12 300
Kitchen range 18 450 9 225
Wall oven 18 450 9 225

Y
Hot air flues 18 450 9 225
Uninsulated heat ducts 18 450 9 225
Uninsulated hot water pipes
Side of ceiling- or wall-mounted hot air diffusers
Front of wall-mounted hot air diffusers
Hot water heater or furnace
12
24
36
6
300
600
900
150
6
12
18
3
N
150
300
450
75
L
Light fixture
0 W–250 W 6 150 3
O 75
250 W–499 W

Chapter 8 Sprinkler Position and Location

12 300

S E 6

N [Link].3 Where a physical barrier exists between the sprin‐

150

U
klers that prevents each sprinkler from directly spraying on the
8.1 Design Criteria. other, there shall be no minimum distance between sprinklers.
8.1.1 Sloped Ceilings.
[Link] Where the ceiling is sloped, the maximum S dimen‐
sion shall be measured along the slope of the ceiling to the
A L
8.1.4 Operating Pressure. The minimum operating pressure
of any sprinkler shall be the higher of the minimum operating
pressure specified by the listing or 7 psi (0.5 bar).
next sprinkler, as shown in Figure [Link].
[Link] The sprinklers shall maintain the minimum listed spac‐
U 8.2 Position of Sprinklers.
8.2.1 Residential Pendent and Upright Sprinklers.
{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
ID
ing, but no less than 8 ft (2.4 m), measured in the plan view
from one sprinkler to another, as shown in Figure [Link]. [Link] Pendent and upright sprinklers that have not been
listed with specific deflector to ceiling distances shall be posi‐

I V
8.1.2 Nonresidential Sprinklers. Sprinklers other than resi‐
dential sprinklers shall be installed in accordance with the
tioned so that the deflectors are within 1 in. to 4 in. (25 mm to
100 mm) from the ceiling unless otherwise permitted by 8.2.7

D
coverage criteria specified by NFPA 13. or [Link].
8.1.3 Sprinkler Coverage. N [Link]* Pendent-type residential sprinklers located under or

IN
adjacent to beams in accordance with 10.2.1 shall be installed
[Link] Residential Sprinklers. in accordance with one of the following:
[Link].1 Sprinklers shall be installed in accordance with their (1) Pendent, recessed pendent, and flush-type pendent sprin‐

the listing.

O R
listing where the type of ceiling configuration is referenced in

[Link].2* Where construction features or other special condi‐

klers shall be permitted to be installed directly under a
beam having a maximum depth of 14 in. (350 mm) with
the sprinkler deflector 1 in. to 2 in. (25 mm to 50 mm)
below the beam, or in accordance with the manufactur‐

F
tions exist that are outside the scope of sprinkler listings, listed
sprinklers shall be permitted to be installed beyond their listing er’s instructions for recessed or flush sprinklers if the
limitations. deflector is less than 1 in. (25 mm) below the beam, as
shown in Figure [Link](a).
(2) Pendent sprinklers shall be permitted to be installed adja‐
cent to beams where the vertical centerline of the sprin‐
S S kler is no greater than 2 in. (50 mm) from the edge of
the beam and with the sprinkler deflector 1 in. to 2 in.
(25 mm to 50 mm) below the beam, or in accordance
with the manufacturer’s instructions for flush sprinklers if
the deflector is less than 1 in. (25 mm) below the beam,
as shown in Figure [Link](b).
Minimum listed spacing
but not less than 8 ft Minimum listed spacing N [Link] Concealed sprinklers shall be permitted to be installed
(2.4 m) but not less than 8 ft
(2.4 m)
in beams up to 4 in. (100 mm) in depth.
Elevation View Elevation View

FIGURE [Link] Measuring S Dimension.

2019 Edition Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material.
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

SPRINKLER POSITION AND LOCATION 13D-17

[Link] Residential horizontal sidewall sprinkler deflectors

shall be located no more than 6 in. (150 mm) from the face of
the wall or soffit on which they are mounted.
8.2.3 Nonresidential Sprinklers. Sprinklers other than resi‐
dential sprinklers shall be positioned in accordance with the
positioning criteria specified by NFPA 13.
14 in.
(350 mm) 8.2.4 Basements Without Ceilings. In basements where ceil‐
max ings are not required for the protection of piping or where
metallic pipe is installed, residential sprinklers shall be permit‐
ted to be positioned in a manner that anticipates future instal‐
lation of a finished ceiling.

1 in. (25 mm) min

2 in. (50 mm) max
8.2.5* Obstructions to Residential Sprinklers.
[Link] Pendent Sprinklers.
[Link].1 Pendent sprinklers shall be located at least 36 in.
L Y
FIGURE [Link](a) Position of Sprinkler Under a Beam. N
(900 mm) away from obstructions such as ceiling fans and light
fixtures unless the requirements of [Link] are met.

O
[Link].2 The distance shall be measured from the center of
the sprinkler to the center of the obstruction.

S E
[Link].3 Where the sprinkler cannot be located 36 in.
(900 mm) away from the obstruction (as measured from the
center of the obstruction), an additional sprinkler shall be loca‐

U
ted on the other side of the obstruction.
[Link].4 Where the area of the fan blades encompass more

L
than 50 percent of the area of the plan view, the sprinkler shall

A
be installed in accordance with [Link].
[Link] Sidewall Sprinklers.

{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
14 in.

D
(350 mm)
U [Link].1 Sidewall sprinklers shall be located at least 5 ft
(1.5 m) away from obstructions such as ceiling fans and light

I
max
fixtures unless the requirements of [Link] are met.

I V [Link].2 The distance shall be measured from the center of

the sprinkler to the center of the obstruction.

D
[Link].3 Where the sprinkler cannot be located 5 ft (1.5 m)
1 in. (25 mm) min away from the obstruction (as measured to the center of the

IN
2 in. (50 mm) max obstruction), an additional sprinkler shall be installed on the
other side of the obstruction.

2 in. (50 mm) max [Link].4 Where the area of the fan blades encompasses more

R
than 50 percent of the area of the plan view, the sprinkler shall
FIGURE [Link](b) Position of Sprinkler Adjacent to a be installed in accordance with [Link].

O
Beam.
[Link] Continuous Obstructions to Pendent Sprinklers.

F [Link] Pendent and upright sprinklers that have been listed

[Link].1 Sprinklers shall be positioned with respect to contin‐
uous obstructions in accordance with [Link].2, [Link].3, or
[Link].4.
Δ [Link].2 Sprinklers shall be positioned with respect to contin‐
with specific positioning criteria shall be positioned in accord‐ uous obstructions in accordance with Table [Link].2 and
ance with their listing unless permitted otherwise by 8.2.7. Figure [Link].2.

8.2.2 Residential Sidewall Sprinklers. [Link].3 Sprinklers shall be positioned with respect to an
obstruction against a wall in accordance with Figure
[Link] Sidewall sprinklers that have not been listed with [Link].3(a) or Figure [Link].3(b).
specific positioning criteria shall be positioned so that the
deflectors are within 4 in. to 6 in. (100 mm to 150 mm) from [Link].4 A sprinkler shall be installed on the other side of the
the ceiling. obstruction.

[Link] Sidewall sprinklers that have been listed with specific [Link] Continuous Obstructions to Sidewall Sprinklers.
positioning criteria shall be installed in accordance with their [Link].1 Sprinklers shall be positioned with respect to contin‐
listing. uous obstructions in accordance with [Link].2 or [Link].3.

Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material. 2019 Edition
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

13D-18 INSTALLATION OF SPRINKLER SYSTEMS IN ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS AND MANUFACTURED HOMES

Δ Table [Link].2 Positioning of Sprinklers to Avoid Obstructions

to Discharge (Residential Upright and Pendent Spray Ceiling
Sprinklers)

Maximum Allowable B
Distance of Deflector
Distance from Sprinklers to Above Bottom of Obstruction
Side of Obstruction (A) Obstruction (in.) (B)
Less than 1 ft (300 mm) 0 D A
1 ft (300 mm) to less than 1 ft 6 in. 0
(450 mm) A ≥ (D − 8 in.) + B
Wall
1 ft 6 in. (450 mm) to less than 2 ft 1 (25 mm) [A ≥ (D – 200 mm) + B ]
(600 mm)
2 ft (600 mm) to less than 2 ft 6 in.
(750 mm)
1 (25 mm)
where: D ≤ 30 in. (750 mm)

Elevation View

L Y
2 ft 6 in. (750 mm) to less than 3 ft
(900 mm)
3 ft (900 mm) to less than 3 ft 6 in.
(1050 mm)
3 ft 6 in. (1050 mm) to less than
1 (25 mm)

3 (75 mm)

3 (75 mm)
Δ FIGURE [Link].3(a) Positioning of Sprinkler to Avoid

Spray Sprinklers).

O N
Obstruction Against Walls (Residential Upright and Pendent

4 ft (1200 mm)
4 ft (1200 mm) to less than 4 ft
6 in. (1350 mm)
5 (125 mm)

S E
4 ft 6 in. (1350 mm) to less than
5 ft (1500 mm)
5 ft (1500 mm) to less than 5 ft
6 in. (1650 mm)
7 (175 mm)

7 (175 mm)

L U
5 ft 6 in. (1650 mm) to less than
6 ft (1800 mm)
6 ft (1800 mm) to less than 6 ft
6 in. (1950 mm)
7 (175 mm)

9 (225 mm)

U A
6 ft 6 in. (1950 mm) to less than
{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
7 ft (2100 mm)

I D
11 (275 mm)

Ceiling

V
7 ft and greater (2100 mm) 14 (350 mm)
Note: For A and B, refer to Figure [Link].2.

D I B

IN
Ceiling

O R Obstruction

F
B
D A
Obstruction

A ≥ (D − 8 in.) + B
Wall [A ≥ (D – 200 mm) + B ]
A where: D ≤ 30 in. (750 mm)

Elevation View Elevation View

FIGURE [Link].2 Positioning of Sprinkler to Avoid Δ FIGURE [Link].3(b) Positioning of Sprinkler to Avoid
Obstruction to Discharge (Residential Upright and Pendent Obstruction Against Walls (Residential Upright and Pendent
Spray Sprinklers). Spray Sprinklers).

2019 Edition Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material.
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

SPRINKLER POSITION AND LOCATION 13D-19

Δ [Link].2 Sprinklers shall be positioned with respect to contin‐

uous obstructions in accordance with Table [Link].2(a), Figure
[Link].2(a), Table [Link].2(b), Figure [Link].2(b), and Figure Ceiling or roof
[Link].2(c).
[Link].3 A sprinkler shall be installed on the other side of the
obstruction.
B
[Link] Soffits and Cabinets. Where soffits are used for the
installation of sidewall sprinklers, the sprinklers and soffits shall
be installed in accordance with [Link].1, [Link].2, or [Link].3. Obstruction

[Link].1 Where soffits exceed more than 8 in. (200 mm) in

width or projection from the wall, sprinklers shall be installed
under the soffit.
[Link].2 Sidewall sprinklers shall be permitted to be installed
in the face of a soffit located directly over cabinets, without
A

L Y
requiring additional sprinklers below the soffit or cabinets,
where the soffit does not project horizontally more than 12 in.
(300 mm) from the wall.
[Link].3 Where sidewall sprinklers are more than 3 ft
Wall

O
Elevation View N
FIGURE [Link].2(a) Positioning of Sprinkler to Avoid

E
(0.91 m) above the top of cabinets, the sprinkler shall be
permitted to be installed on the wall above the cabinets where Obstruction (Residential Sidewall Sprinklers).
the cabinets are no greater than 12 in. (300 mm) from the wall.
N [Link] Shadow areas in corridors up to 2 ft (0.61 m) in depth
and up to 9 ft (2.7 m) in length behind sidewall sprinklers shall
be permitted as shown in Figure [Link]. [13R:Figure
U S
[Link] Small areas created by architectural features, such as
planter box windows, bay windows, and similar features, shall
be evaluated as follows:
[Link].3.2]
[Link]* Shadow Areas. Shadow areas shall be permitted in
the protection area of a sprinkler as long as the cumulative dry
A
(1)
L Where no additional floor area is created by the architec‐
tural feature, no additional sprinkler protection is
required.

U
(2) Where additional floor area is created by an architectural
areas do not exceed 15 ft2 (1.4 m2) per sprinkler.
feature, no additional sprinkler protection is required,

D
provided all of the following conditions are met:
{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
Δ Table [Link].2(a) Positioning of Sprinklers to Avoid
Obstructions (Residential Sidewall Sprinklers)

V I (a) The floor area shall not exceed 18 ft2 (1.7 m2).

Distance from Sidewall

Sprinkler to Side of
D I Maximum Allowable
Distance of Deflector
Above Bottom of
Δ Table [Link].2(b) Positioning of Sprinklers to Avoid
Obstructions Along Wall (Residential Sidewall Sprinklers)

IN
Obstruction (A) Obstruction (in.) (B) Maximum Allowable
Distance from Sidewall Distance of Deflector
Less than 8 ft (2400 mm) Not allowed
Sprinkler to Side of Above Bottom of
8 ft (2400 mm) to less than 10 ft 1 (25 mm)

R
Obstruction (A) Obstruction (in.) (B)
(3000 mm)
10 ft (3000 mm) to less than 11 ft 2 (50 mm) Less than 1 ft 6 in. (450 mm) 0

F O
(3300 mm)
11 ft (3300 mm) to less than 12 ft
(3600 mm)
12 ft (3600 mm) to less than 13 ft
(3900 mm)
3 (75 mm)

4 (100 mm)
1 ft 6 in. (450 mm) to less than
3 ft (900 mm)
3 ft (900 mm) to less than 4 ft
(1200 mm)
4 ft (1200 mm) to less than 4 ft
1 (25 mm)

3 (75 mm)

5 (125 mm)
13 ft (3900 mm) to less than 14 ft 6 (150 mm) 6 in. (1350 mm)
(4200 mm) 4 ft 6 in. (1350 mm) to less 7 (175 mm)
14 ft (4200 mm) to less than 15 ft 7 (175 mm) than 6 ft (1850 mm)
(4500 mm) 6 ft (1850 mm) to less than 6 ft 9 (225 mm)
15 ft (4500 mm) to less than 16 ft 9 (225 mm) 6 in. (1950 mm)
(4800 mm) 6 ft 6 in. (1950 mm) to less 11 (275 mm)
16 ft (4800 mm) to less than 17 ft 11 (275 mm) than 7 ft (2100 mm)
(5100 mm) 7 ft to (2100 mm) less than 7 ft 14 (350 mm)
17 ft (5100 mm) or greater 14 (350 mm) 6 in. (2250 mm)
Note: For A and B, refer to Figure [Link].2(a). Note: For A and B, refer to Figure [Link].2(b).

Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material. 2019 Edition
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

13D-20 INSTALLATION OF SPRINKLER SYSTEMS IN ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS AND MANUFACTURED HOMES

(b) The floor area shall not be greater than 24 in.

(600 mm) in depth at the deepest point of the
Ceiling
architectural feature to the plane of the primary
wall where measured along the finished floor.
Sidewall (c) The floor shall not be greater than 9 ft (2.7 m) in
B sprinkler length where measured along the plane of the
on wall
primary wall.
Obstruction (d) Measurement from the deepest point of the archi‐
tectural feature to the sprinkler shall not exceed the
maximum listed spacing of the sprinkler.
A (3) The hydraulic design shall not be required to consider
the area created by the architectural feature.

Y
Elevation View 8.2.6* Exposed Barrel Lengths for Dry Sprinklers.

L
FIGURE [Link].2(b) Positioning of Sprinkler to Avoid [Link] Where dry sprinklers are connected to wet pipe sprin‐
Obstruction Along Wall (Residential Sidewall Sprinklers). kler systems protecting areas subject to freezing temperatures,

N
the minimum exposed length of the barrel of the dry sprinkler
shall be in accordance with Table [Link](a) or Table [Link](b).

O
[Link] The minimum barrel length shall be measured from
the face of the fitting to which the dry sprinkler is installed to
the inside surface of the insulation, wall, or ceiling leading to

Ceiling or roof
E
the cold space, whichever is closer to the fitting.

S
Δ 8.2.7 Closets and Compartments. In all closets and compart‐
ments that are smaller than 400 ft3 (11 m3), including those
30 in. (760 mm)
maximum
U
housing mechanical equipment, pendent, upright, and sidewall
residential sprinklers shall be permitted to be installed in

L
either of the following situations:

A
(1) Within 18 in. (450 mm) of the ceiling to avoid obstruc‐
Obstruction tions near the ceiling where the compartment is enclosed

U
by walls and a door
(2) At the highest ceiling level without regard to obstructions

ID
30 in. (760 mm) or minimum distances to wall
{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
No minimum maximum
8.3 Location of Sprinklers.

Wall
I V Wall
8.3.1 Sprinklers shall be installed in all areas except where
omission is permitted by 8.3.2 through 8.3.8.

D 8.3.2 Sprinklers shall not be required in bathrooms of 55 ft2

(5.1 m2) and less.

IN
Elevation View

N FIGURE [Link].2(c) Positioning of Sprinkler to Avoid 8.3.3 Sprinklers shall not be required in clothes closets, linen
Obstructions Against Wall (Residential Sidewall Sprinklers). closets, and pantries that meet all of the following conditions:

O R (1)
(2)
The area of the space does not exceed 24 ft2 (2.2 m2).
The walls and ceilings are surfaced with noncombustible
or limited-combustible materials as defined in NFPA 220.

F Shadow area

Protection area of sprinkler

Sidewall sprinkler
2 ft 0 in. (0.6 m)
max

Shadow area

9 ft 0 in. (2.7 m) max

FIGURE [Link] Shadow Areas Behind Sidewall Sprinklers in Corridors.

2019 Edition Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material.
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

PROTECTION FROM FREEZING 13D-21

Δ Table [Link](a) Exposed Barrel Lengths for Dry Sprinklers [Link].2* Where fuel-fired equipment is below or on the
(U.S. Customary Units) same level as occupied areas of the dwelling unit, at least one
quick-response intermediate temperature sprinkler shall be
Ambient installed above the equipment or at the wall separating the
Temperature Minimum Minimum Minimum space with the fuel-fired equipment from the occupied space.
Exposed to Exposed Barrel Exposed Barrel Exposed Barrel
Discharge End Length when Length when Length when
8.3.6* Sprinklers shall not be required in unheated enclosures
of Sprinkler Exposed to 40ºF Exposed to 50ºF Exposed to 60ºF at the building at entrances/exits as long as the dwelling unit
(ºF) (in.) (in.) (in.) has another entrance/exit.
40 0 0 0 8.3.7 Sprinklers shall not be required for ceiling pockets that
30 0 0 0 meet the following conditions:
20 4 0 0 (1) The total volume of all unprotected ceiling pockets in a
10 8 1 0

Y
compartment does not exceed 100 ft3 (2.8 m3).
0 12 3 0
(2) The entire floor under the unprotected ceiling pocket is

L
−10 14 4 1
−20 14 6 3 protected by the sprinklers at the lower ceiling elevation.
−30 16 8 4 (3)* The interior finish of the unprotected ceiling pocket
−40
−50
−60
18
20
20
8
10
10
4
6
6
limited-combustible material.

to have a plastic cover.

O N
excluding decorative treatments is noncombustible or

(4) Skylights not exceeding 32 ft2 (3 m2) shall be permitted

Δ Table [Link](b) Exposed Barrel Lengths for Dry Sprinklers

(Metric Units)

S E
8.3.8 Sprinklers shall not be required in closets in garages and
exterior closets (regardless of size) located on exterior balco‐
nies, exterior breezeways/corridors, or accessed from outdoors
where the closet does not have doors or unprotected penetra‐

U
Ambient Minimum Minimum Minimum
tions directly into the dwelling unit.
Temperature Exposed Exposed Exposed
Exposed to Barrel Length Barrel Length Barrel Length 8.3.9 Sprinklers shall be installed in any closet used for heat‐
Discharge End of when Exposed when Exposed when Exposed
Sprinkler
(ºC)
to 4ºC
(mm)
to 10ºC
(mm)
to 16ºC
(mm)

A L
ing and/or air-conditioning equipment, washers and/or
dryers, or water heaters except as allowed by 8.3.8.

4
−1
−7
0
0
100
{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
0
0
0

D
0
0
0 U Chapter 9 Protection from Freezing

9.1 System Types. Systems shall be permitted to be wet pipe,

−12
−18
200
300
25
75

V I 0
0
dry pipe, or preaction.
9.1.1* Wet Pipe Systems. A wet pipe system shall be permitted

I
−23 350 100 25
−29 350 150 75 to be used where all piping is installed in areas not subject to
freezing, including areas properly insulated to maintain 40°F

D
−34 400 200 100
−40 450 200 100 (4°C).

IN
−46 500 250 150
9.1.2 Systems in Areas Subject to Freezing. Where any
−51 500 250 150
portion of a system is subject to freezing and the temperature
cannot be maintained at or above 40°F (4°C), the pipe shall be

R
protected against freezing by use of one of the following meth‐
ods:

O
8.3.4* Sprinklers shall not be required in garages, open (1) Dry pipe system and preaction systems in accordance with
attached porches, carports, and similar structures. Section 9.3

F 8.3.5 Sprinklers shall not be required in attics with or without

storage, penthouse equipment rooms, elevator machine rooms,
concealed spaces dedicated exclusively to and containing only
dwelling unit ventilation equipment, floor/ceiling spaces,
elevator shafts, crawl spaces, and other concealed spaces that
(2) Antifreeze system in accordance with Section 9.2
(3) Listed standard dry pendent or dry sidewall sprinklers
extended from pipe in heated areas into unheated areas
not intended for living purposes
(4)* Listed heat tracing provided that it is installed and insula‐
are not used or intended for living purposes. ted in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions,
specifically heat tracing used on branch lines is listed for
[Link] Such spaces that contain fuel-fired equipment shall branch lines of fire sprinkler systems
also comply with [Link].1 or [Link].2. (5) Listed residential dry pendent or dry sidewall sprinklers
extended from pipe in heated areas into unheated areas
[Link].1 Where the fuel-fired equipment is above all of the
occupied areas of the dwelling unit, no sprinkler protection
shall be required in the concealed space.

Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material. 2019 Edition
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

13D-22 INSTALLATION OF SPRINKLER SYSTEMS IN ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS AND MANUFACTURED HOMES

9.2* Antifreeze Systems. Filling cup

9.2.1* Conformity with Health Regulations. The use of anti‐ Water supply
freeze solutions shall be in conformity with any state or local Water
health regulations.
12 in. (300 mm)
9.2.2* Antifreeze Solutions.

Wall
[Link] Except as permitted in [Link], antifreeze solutions Drop A
Approved
shall be listed for use in new sprinkler systems.

Nonfreezing
5 ft indicating
(1.5 m) valve

solution
[Link].1 For existing systems, antifreeze solutions shall be minimum
limited to premixed antifreeze solutions of glycerine (chemi‐ Heated area Unheated area
cally pure or United States Pharmacopoeia 96.5 percent) at a
maximum concentration of 50 percent by volume, propylene
glycol at a maximum concentration of 40 percent by volume, or
other solutions listed specifically for use in fire protection
systems. Check valve
B

L Y
N
[¹⁄₃₂ in. (0.8 mm) Pitch to drain
[Link]* Premixed solutions of glycerine (chemically pure or hole in clapper] Drain valve
United States Pharmacopoeia 96.5 percent at a maximum

O
Notes:
concentration of 48 percent by volume or propylene glycol at a 1. Check valve shall be permitted to be omitted where sprinklers
maximum concentration of 38 percent by volume shall be are below the level of valve A.

E
permitted to protect piping that is supplying sprinklers in a 2. The ¹⁄₃₂ in. (0.8 mm) hole in the check valve clapper is needed to
allow for expansion of the solution during a temperature rise, thus
specific area of the dwelling unit, where acceptable to the

S
preventing damage to sprinklers.
authority having jurisdiction.
[Link].1* Documentation shall be presented to the AHJ to Δ FIGURE [Link].1 Arrangement of Supply Piping and

•
substantiate the use of the antifreeze solution.
[Link]* The specific gravity of the antifreeze solution shall be
checked by a hydrometer with a scale having 0.002 subdivi‐
Valves.

L U
system, or the hydrostatic test shall be performed with anti‐

A
sions. freeze solution at the proper concentration for the system.
9.2.5 Placard Information. A placard shall be placed on the

U
9.2.3* Arrangement of Supply Piping and Valves.
antifreeze system main valve that indicates the manufacturer
[Link] Connections Between Antifreeze System and Wet Pipe type and brand of antifreeze solution, the concentration of
System with No Backflow Prevention Device.
{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
[Link].1 A 5 ft (1.5 m) drop pipe, or U-loop, shall be installed
I D antifreeze solution used, and the volume of the antifreeze solu‐
tion used in the system.
in the connection between the antifreeze system and the wet
pipe system as illustrated in Figure [Link].1.
I V 9.3 Dry Pipe and Preaction Systems.
9.3.1 Sprinklers.

D
[Link].2 If sprinklers are above the level of the water supply to
the antifreeze system, a check valve with a 1∕32 in. (0.8 mm) hole
[Link] Sprinklers shall be specifically listed for use on dry

IN
pipe and double interlock preaction systems.
in the clapper shall be provided in the U-loop.
[Link] The following types of sprinklers and arrangements
[Link].3 Valves shall be provided as illustrated in Figure
shall be permitted for dry pipe and preaction systems:
[Link].1.

O R
[Link].4 Arrangement of supply piping when the water supply
comes from a storage tank or the water supply feeds through a
check valve that does not have a 1∕32 in. (0.8 mm) hole drilled in
(1)
(2)
Residential upright sprinklers
Residential dry sprinklers

F
Fill cup or
the clapper shall meet the requirements of [Link].2. filling connection
[Link]* Connections Between Antifreeze System and Wet Pipe
System with Backflow Prevention Device Installed. Backflow preventer
with control valves
[Link].1 Valves shall be provided as illustrated in Figure
[Link].1. Water
supply
[Link].2 An expansion chamber shall be provided as illustra‐
ted in Figure [Link].1.
[Link].3 The expansion chamber shall be sized based on the Expansion
chamber
minimum and maximum volume of the antifreeze solution Drain
over the life of the system. valve
Heated area Unheated area
9.2.4 Hydrostatic Test. Where pendent sprinklers are utilized,
and where a hydrostatic test shall be performed, the hydrostatic
test shall be performed with water and then the water shall be FIGURE [Link].1 Arrangement of Supply Piping with
completely drained before antifreeze solution is placed in the Backflow Device.

2019 Edition Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material.
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

DISCHARGE AND HYDRAULIC CALCULATIONS 13D-23

(3) Residential pendent and sidewall sprinklers installed on 9.3.7 Drainage. Piping shall be pitched a minimum of 1∕4 in.
return bends, where the sprinklers, return bends, and per 10 ft (6 mm per 3 m) to facilitate draining.
branch line piping are in an area maintained at or above
40°F (4°C) 9.3.8 Auxiliary Drains.
(4) Residential horizontal sidewall sprinklers, installed so that [Link] Auxiliary drains shall be provided where a change in
water is not trapped piping direction prevents drainage of system piping through
[Link] Return bends required per [Link](3) shall be permit‐ the drain valve on the system side of the control valve.
ted to be omitted when using potable water supplies combined [Link] At a minimum, auxiliary drains shall be a nipple and
with corrosion-resistant pipe. cap or plug not less than 1∕2 in. (13 mm).
[Link] Sprinklers with nominal K-factors greater than 4.0 and 9.3.9 Air Supply. The system air pressure shall be maintained
less than 5.6 shall be permitted to be installed on dry pipe by approved equipment.
systems where piping is corrosion resistant or internally galvan‐
ized.
[Link] Sprinklers with nominal K-factors of 5.6 or greater
shall be permitted to be installed on pipe complying with the
Chapter 10 Discharge and Hydraulic Calculations

L Y
N
10.1 Design Discharge.
requirements of Section 5.2.
10.1.1* Sprinklers That Are Listed with Specific Discharge

O
9.3.2 Preaction Systems. Preaction systems shall be one of the Criteria. The system shall provide at least the flow required to
following types: produce a minimum discharge density of 0.05 gpm/ft2
(2.0 mm/min) or the sprinkler listing, whichever is greater, to

E
(1) A single interlock system, which admits water to sprinkler
piping upon operation of detection devices the design sprinklers.

S
(2) A noninterlock system, which admits water to sprinkler
piping upon operation of detection devices or automatic 10.1.2 Water Supply. Where the water supply is a public or
private water main 4 in. (100 mm) (nominal) in size or larger,

U
sprinklers
(3) A double interlock system, which admits water to sprin‐ the static pressure shall be permitted to be used for compari‐
kler piping upon operation of both detection devices and son to the sprinkler system demand regardless of the method
automatic sprinklers
9.3.3 Dry Pipe and Double Interlock Preaction System Water
Delivery.
A L
used to determine the adequacy of the piping.
10.2* Number of Design Sprinklers.
10.2.1 For each of the following situations, the number of
[Link] Water delivery shall be based on the hazard shown in
Table [Link].
{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717} D U sprinklers in the design area shall be all of the sprinklers within
a compartment, up to a maximum of two sprinklers, that

I
require the greatest hydraulic demand:
[Link] Water delivery shall be based on one of the following: (1) A flat, smooth, horizontal ceiling with no beams up to a
(1)

(2)
a nationally recognized laboratory
V
A calculation program and method that shall be listed by

I
An inspector's test connection providing a flow equivalent
(2)
maximum of 24 ft (7.3 m) above the floor.
A flat, horizontal beamed ceiling, with a maximum ceil‐
ing height of 24 ft (7.3 m), with beams up to 14 in.

D
to the smallest sprinkler K-factor utilized, wherein the test
connection is located on the end of the most remote
(350 mm) deep with pendent sprinklers under the
beams. The compartment containing the beamed ceiling

IN
branchline shall be a maximum of 600 ft2 (56 m2) in area. The high‐
est sprinkler in the compartment shall be above all open‐
9.3.4 Location and Protection of Dry Pipe and Preaction ings from the compartment into any communicating

R
Valves. The dry pipe valve, preaction valve, and supply pipe spaces.
shall be protected against freezing and physical damage. (3) A smooth, flat, sloped ceiling with no beams up to a maxi‐

F O
9.3.5* Detection Devices.
[Link] The detection system shall be designed to operate
sooner than the first sprinkler.
[Link] Detectors shall be installed in all areas and compart‐
mum slope of 8 in 12. The highest portion of the ceiling
shall not be more than 24 ft (7.3 m) above the floor. The
highest sprinkler in the sloped portion of the ceiling shall
be above all openings from the compartment containing
the sloped ceiling into any communicating spaces.
ments where sprinklers are installed. (4) A sloped ceiling with beams up to 14 in. (350 mm) deep
with pendent sprinklers under the beams. The compart‐
9.3.6 System Configuration. Dry pipe systems and preaction ment containing the sloped, beamed ceiling shall be a
systems of the type described in 9.3.2(3) shall not be gridded. maximum of 600 ft2 (56 m2) in area. The slope of the ceil‐
ing shall be between 2 in 12 and 8 in 12. The highest
portion of the ceiling shall not be more than 24 ft (7.3 m)
Δ Table [Link] Water Delivery Time for Dry Pipe and Double above the floor. The highest sprinkler in the sloped
Interlock Preaction Systems portion of the ceiling shall be above all openings from
the compartment containing the sloped ceiling into any
Number of Most Maximum Time communicating spaces.
Remote Sprinklers of Water Delivery (5) A sloped ceiling with beams of any depth with sidewall or
pendent sprinklers in each pocket formed by the beams.
Hazard Initially Open (seconds)
The compartment containing the sloped, beamed ceiling
Residential 1 15 shall be a maximum of 600 ft2 (56 m2) in area. The slope

Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material. 2019 Edition
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

13D-24 INSTALLATION OF SPRINKLER SYSTEMS IN ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS AND MANUFACTURED HOMES

of the ceiling shall be between 2 in 12 and 8 in 12. The (8) A maximum of one insert tee shall be permitted in each
highest portion of the ceiling shall not be more than 24 ft pipe section between sprinklers to serve only domestic
(7.3 m) above the floor. fixtures.
(9) When insert fittings are installed, each sprinkler shall
10.2.2 Listed flows associated with testing under a smooth, have four separate paths from the water supply.
flat, horizontal 8 ft (2.4 m) high ceiling shall be permitted to (10) The piping supplying only plumbing fixtures shall be in
be used for the ceiling configurations referenced in 10.2.1. accordance with the applicable plumbing code.
10.2.3 For situations not meeting one of the conditions in 10.4.3 The pipes shall be sized using one of the following
10.2.1, residential sprinklers listed for use in specific ceiling techniques:
configurations shall be permitted to be used in accordance
with their listing. (1) The simplified calculation method of 10.4.4, which can
only be used for connections to a city water main of at
10.2.4* For situations not meeting one of the conditions in least 4 in. (100 mm) in diameter
10.2.1 and 10.2.3, the number of sprinklers in the design area
shall be determined in consultation with the authority having
jurisdiction as appropriate for the conditions.
(2)
(3)
(4)
The prescriptive pipe sizing method of 10.4.9
The hydraulic calculation procedure for NFPA 13
The manufacturer’s listed installation instructions
L Y
10.3 Piping Configurations.
10.3.1 The piping configuration shall be permitted to be
looped.
10.3.2 The piping configuration shall be permitted to be grid‐
Δ 10.4.4* General Pipe Sizing Method. The following is the

accordance with 10.4.3(1):

O N
general pipe sizing method for straight-run systems connected
to a city water main of at least 4 in. (100 mm) in diameter in

E
(1) The system flow rate shall be established in accordance
ded except where gridded systems are prohibited by Chapter 9. with Sections 10.1 and 10.2, and it shall be determined
10.3.3 The piping configuration shall be permitted to be
straight run.
10.3.4 The piping configuration shall be permitted to be a
combination of the configurations permitted in 10.3.1 through U S
that the flow allowed by the water meter meets or
exceeds the system demand and that the total demand
flow does not exceed the maximum flow allowed by the
piping system components.

L
(2) The water pressure in the street shall be determined.
10.3.3. (3) Pipe sizes shall be selected.
10.4 Pipe Sizing.
10.4.1 For specially listed piping products, friction loss for
pipe and fittings shall be permitted to be calculated based on
U A (4)* Pressure loss for a water meter, if any, shall be deter‐
mined and deducted using one of the following:
(a)
Table 10.4.4(a) shall be permitted to be used, even
where the sprinkler demand flow exceeds the
the manufacturer's data.
{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
10.4.2 Minimum Pipe Size.
I D meter's rated continuous flow.
(b) Higher pressure losses specified by the manufac‐

V
turer shall be used in place of those specified in

I
[Link] The minimum size of steel pipe shall be 1 in. Table 10.4.4(a).
(25 mm). (c) Lower pressure losses shall be permitted to be used

D
[Link] The minimum size of pipe other than steel pipe shall
be 3∕4 in. (20 mm) unless smaller sizes are permitted by [Link].
where supporting data are provided by the meter
manufacturer.

IN
(5) Pressure loss for elevation shall be deducted as follows:
[Link]* Along with listed special fittings, 1∕2 in. (15 mm) (a)Building height above street (ft) × 0.433 = pressure
nonmetallic pipe and 1∕2 in. (15 mm) copper pipe shall be loss (psi)
permitted to be used only in network systems under the follow‐

R
(b) Building height above street (m) × 0.098 = pres‐
ing conditions: sure loss (bar)

O
(1)* Each sprinkler shall be supplied through a minimum of (6)* Pressure losses from the city main to the inside control
three separate paths from the supply manifold. valve shall be deducted by multiplying the pressure loss

F
(2) Calculations shall clearly indicate the pipes that create
the paths to each sprinkler.
(3) A water distribution pipe that supplies a sprinkler shall
not terminate in a dead end.
(4) Hydraulic calculations shall be prepared for each sprin‐
associated with the pipe material by the total length(s)
of pipe in feet (meters).
(7) Pressure loss for piping within the building shall be
deducted by multiplying the pressure loss associated
with the pipe material by the total length(s) of pipe in
kler flowing individually within the system and for each feet (meters).
pair of sprinklers within the same compartment. (8) Pressure loss for valves and fittings shall be deducted as
(5) The location of the most demanding single sprinkler follows:
and pair of sprinklers, including their pressure and flow (a) The valves and fittings from the control valve to
requirements, shall be indicated on the plan review the farthest sprinkler shall be counted.
documents. (b) The equivalent length for each valve and fitting as
(6) The system shall be hydraulically calculated in accord‐ shown in Table 10.4.4(b), Table 10.4.4(c), Table
ance with the provisions of NFPA 13, except that the fric‐ 10.4.4(d), Table 10.4.4(e), or as specified by the
tion loss straight through a fitting shall be included. manufacturer shall be determined and the values
(7) The method of joining the pipe to fittings or to other added to obtain the total equivalent length for
pipe shall be in accordance with the applicable plumb‐ each pipe size.
ing code.

2019 Edition Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material.
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

DISCHARGE AND HYDRAULIC CALCULATIONS 13D-25

(c)
The equivalent length for each size shall be multi‐ (12) The remaining piping shall be sized the same as the
plied by the pressure loss associated with the pipe piping up to and including the farthest sprinkler unless
material and the values totaled. smaller pipe sizes are justified by calculations.
(9) In multilevel buildings, the steps in 10.4.4(1) through
10.4.4(8) shall be repeated to size piping for each floor. Δ 10.4.5 To size piping for systems with an elevated tank, pump,
(10) If the remaining pressure is less than the operating pres‐ or pump–tank combination, the pressure at the water supply
sure established by the testing laboratory for the sprin‐ outlet shall be determined and the steps in 10.4.4(3),
kler being used, the sprinkler system shall be 10.4.4(4), 10.4.4(7), 10.4.4(8), 10.4.4(9), 10.4.4(10), and
redesigned. 10.4.4(11) shall be followed.
(11) If the remaining pressure is higher than required, 10.4.6 Hydraulic calculation procedures in accordance with
smaller piping shall be permitted to be used where justi‐ NFPA 13 shall be used for grid-type systems.
fied by calculations.

Δ Table 10.4.4(a) Pressure Losses in psi in Water Meters

L Y
5
Meter Size
(in.)
∕8 (15 mm)
18 or less (68)
9 (0.67 bar) 14 (0.97 bar)
23 (87)
18 (1.2 bar)
Flow (gpm) (L/min)
26 (98)
26 (1.8 bar)
31 (117) 39 (148)
38 (2.6 bar)
52 (197)
* O N
3
∕4 (20 mm)

11∕2 (40 mm)

2 (50 mm)
7 (0.48 bar)
2 (0.14 bar)
1 (0.07 bar)
1 (0.07 bar)
11 (0.76 bar)
3 (0.21 bar)
1 (0.07 bar)
1 (0.07 bar)
14 (1.5 bar)
3 (0.21 bar)
2 (0.14 bar)
1 (0.07 bar)
22 (1.5 bar)
4 (0.28 bar)
2 (0.14 bar)
1 (0.07 bar)
35 (2.4 bar)
6 (0.41 bar)
4 (0.28 bar)
2 (0.14 bar)
S E *
10 (0.69 bar)
7 (0.48 bar)
3 (0.21 bar)
For SI units, 1 gpm = 3.785 L/min; 1 in. = 25 mm; 1 psi = 0.07 bar.
*Above maximum rated flow of commonly available meters.

Δ Table 10.4.4(b) Equivalent Length in Feet of Fittings and Valves for Schedule 40 Steel Pipe
L U
Diameter 45 Degree 90 Degree
Long-
Radius
Tee or

turned 90
U
Tee or
A
Cross (flow Cross (flow
straight Globe “Y” Check

{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
ID
(in.) Elbow Elbow Elbow degrees) through) Gate Valve Angle Valve Globe Valve Pattern Valve Cock Valve Valve
1 (25 mm) 1 (0.3 m) 2 (0.6 m) 2 (0.6 m) 5 (1.5 m) 2 (0.6 m) 0 12 (3.7 m) 28 (8.5 m) 15 (4.6 m) 4 (1.2 m) 5 (1.5 m)
11∕4 (32 mm)
11∕2 (40 mm
2 (50 mm)
1 (0.3 m)
2 (0.6 m)
2 (0.6 m)
3 (0.9 m)
4 (1.2 m)
5 (1.5 m)
I V
2 (0.6 m)
2 (0.6 m)
3 (0.9 m)
6 (1.8 m)
8 (2.4 m)
10 (3 m)
2 (0.6 m)
3 (0.9 m)
3 (0.9 m)
0
0
1 (0.3 m)
15 (4.6 m)
18 (5.5 m)
24 (7.3 m)
35 (10.7 m)
43 (13.1 m)
57 (17.4 m)
18 (5.5 m)
22 (6.7 m)
28 (8.5 m)
5 (1.5 m)
6 (1.8 m)
7 (2.1 m)
7 (2.1 m)
9 (2.7 m)
11 (3.3 m)
For SI units, 1 in. = 25 mm; 1 ft = 0.3 m.

D
IN
Δ Table 10.4.4(c) Equivalent Length in Feet of Fittings and Valves for Type K Copper Tube

Tee or

R
Long- Tee or Cross Cross (flow
Diameter 45 Degree 90 Degree Radius (flow turned straight Globe “Y” Check
(in.) Elbow Elbow Elbow 90 degrees) through) Gate Valve Angle Valve Globe Valve Pattern Valve Cock Valve Valve

F
3

O
∕4 (20 mm)
1 (25 mm)
11∕4 (32 mm)
11∕2 (40 mm)
2 (50 mm)
0
1 (0.3 m)
1 (0.3 m)
2 (0.6 m)
2 (0.6 m)
1 (0.3 m)
2 (0.6 m)
3 (0.9 m)
4 (1.2 m)
6 (1.8 m)
0
2 (0.6 m)
2 (0.6 m)
2 (0.6 m)
3 (0.9 m)
3 (0.9 m)
6 (1.8 m)
5 (1.5 m)
8 (2.4 m)
12 (3.7 m)
1 (0.3 m)
2 (0.6 m)
2 (0.6 m)
3 (0.9 m)
4 (1.2 m)
0
0
0
0
1 (0.3 m)
7 (2.1 m)
14 (4.3 m)
14 (4.3 m)
18 (5.5 m)
28 (8.5 m)
14 (4.3 m)
33 (10 m)
32 (9.8 m)
43 (13.1 m)
66 (20.1 m)
7 (2.1 m)
18 (5.5 m)
16 (4.9 m)
22 (6.7 m)
33 (10 m)
2 (0.6 m)
5 (1.5 m)
5 (1.5 m)
6 (1.8 m)
8 (2.4 m)
0
6 (1.8 m)
6 (1.8 m)
9 (2.7 m)
13 (4 m)
For SI units, 1 in. = 25 mm; 1 ft = 0.3 m.

Δ Table 10.4.4(d) Equivalent Length in Feet of Fittings and Valves for Type L Copper Tube

Tee or
Long- Tee or Cross Cross (flow
Diameter 45 Degree 90 Degree Radius (flow turned straight Globe “Y” Check
(in.) Elbow Elbow Elbow 90 degrees) through) Gate Valve Angle Valve Globe Valve Pattern Valve Cock Valve Valve
∕4 (20 mm)
3
0 2 (0.6 m) 0 4 (1.2 m) 1 (0.3 m) 0 8 (2.4 m) 18 (5.5 m) 10 (3 m) 3 (0.9 m) 0
1 (25 mm) 1 (0.3 m) 3 (0.9 m) 3 (0.9 m) 7 (2.1 m) 2 (0.6 m) 0 16 (4.9 m) 38 (11.6 m) 20 (6.1 m) 5 (2.1 m) 7 (2.1 m)
11∕4 (32 mm) 1 (0.3 m) 3 (0.9 m) 2 (0.6 m) 6 (1.8 m) 2 (0.6 m) 0 15 (4.6 m) 35 (10.7 m) 18 (5.5 m) 5 (1.5 m) 7 (2.1 m)
11∕2 (40 mm) 2 (0.6 m) 4 (1.2 m) 2 (0.6 m) 9 (2.7 m) 3 (0.9 m) 0 20 (6.1 m) 47 (14.3 m) 24 (7.3 m) 7 (2.1 m) 10 (3 m)
2 (50 mm) 2 (0.6 m) 6 (1.8 m) 4 (1.2 m) 12 (3.7 m) 4 (1.2 m) 1 (0.3 m) 30 (9.1 m) 71 (21.6 m) 35 (10.7 m) 9 (2.7 m) 14 (4.3 m)
For SI units, 1 in. = 25 mm; 1 ft = 0.3 m.

Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material. 2019 Edition
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

13D-26 INSTALLATION OF SPRINKLER SYSTEMS IN ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS AND MANUFACTURED HOMES

Δ Table 10.4.4(e) Equivalent Length in Feet of Fittings and Valves for Type M Copper Tube

Tee or Tee or
Long- Cross (flow Cross (flow
Diameter 45 Degree 90 Degree Radius turned 90 straight Globe “Y” Check
(in.) Elbow Elbow Elbow degrees) through) Gate Valve Angle Valve Globe Valve Pattern Valve Cock Valve Valve
3
∕4 (20 mm) 0 2 (0.6 m) 0 4 (1.2 m) 1 (0.3 m 0 10 (3 m) 21 (6.4 m) 11 (3.3 m) 3 (0.9 m) 0
1 (25 mm) 2 (0.6 m) 3 (0.9 m) 3 (0.9 m) 8 (2.4 m) 3 (0.9 m) 0 19 (5.8 m) 43 (13.1 m) 23 (7 m) 6 (1.8 m) 8 (2.1 m)
11∕4 (32 mm) 1 (0.3 m) 3 (0.9 m) 2 (0.6 m) 7 (2.1 m) 2 (0.6 m) 0 16 (4.9 m) 38 (11.5 m) 20 (6.1 m) 5 (1.5 m) 8 (2.4 m)
11∕2 (40 mm) 2 (0.6 m) 5 (1.5 m) 2 (0.6 m) 9 (2.7 m) 3 (0.9 m) 0 21 (6.4 m) 50 (15.2 m) 26 (7.9 m) 7 (2.1 m) 11 (3.3 m)
2 (50 mm) 3 (0.9 m) 7 (2.1 m) 4 (1.2 m) 13 (4 m) 5 (1.5 m) 1 (0.3 m) 32 (9.8 m) 75 (22.9 m) 37 (11.3 m) 9 (2.7 m) 14 (4.3 m)
For SI units, 1 in. = 25 mm; 1 ft = 0.3048 m.

N [Link] Where the water supply is a public or private water

main 4 in. (100 mm) nominal in size or larger, only the static
pressure measured at the main shall be required for perform‐
ing hydraulic calculations.
(3) Step 3 — Determine PLm. Use Table 10.4.4(a) to determine
the pressure loss from the water meter based on the selec‐
ted water meter size. Where the actual water meter pres‐
sure loss is known, PLm shall be the actual loss.
L Y
10.4.7 Hydraulic calculation procedures in accordance with
NFPA 13 shall be used for looped-type systems.
N [Link] Where the water supply is a public or private water
(4)

O N
Step 4 — Determine PLd. Determine the pressure loss from
devices, other than the water meter, installed in the
piping system supplying sprinklers, such as pressure-
reducing valves, backflow preventers, water softeners, or
main 4 in. (100 mm) nominal in size or larger, only the static
pressure measured at the main shall be required for perform‐
ing hydraulic calculations.
(a)
E
water filters, taking into account the following:
Device pressure losses shall be based on the device

S
manufacturer's specifications.
(b) The flow rate used to determine pressure loss shall

U
10.4.8 Hydraulic calculation procedures in accordance with
NFPA 13 shall be used for systems connected to city water be the rate from Section 10.1, except that 5 gpm
mains of less than 4 in. (100 mm) in diameter. (20 L/min) shall be added where the device is

10.4.9 Prescriptive Pipe Sizing Method. Pipe shall be sized by

determining the available pressure to offset friction loss in
piping and identifying a piping material, diameter, and length
A L installed in a water service pipe that supplies more
than one dwelling.
(c) As an alternative to deducting pressure loss for a
device, an automatic bypass valve shall be installed
using the equation in [Link] and the procedure in [Link].
[Link] Available Pressure Equation. The pressure available
{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717} D U (5)
to divert flow around the device when a sprinkler
activates.
Step 5 — Determine PLe. Use Table [Link](b) to determine
determined in accordance with the following formula:

V I
to offset friction loss in the interior piping system (Pt) shall be the pressure loss associated with changes in elevation.
The elevation used in applying the table shall be the

D I
Pt = Psup − PLsvc − PLm − PLd − PLe − Psp
[[Link]]
(6)
difference between the elevation where the water source
pressure was measured and the elevation of the highest
sprinkler.
Step 6 — Determine PLsp. Determine the maximum pressure

IN
required by any individual sprinkler based on the follow‐
where: ing:
Pt = pressure used in applying Table [Link](a) through
Table [Link](h) (a) The area of coverage

R
Psup = pressure available from the water supply source
PLsvc = pressure loss in the water service pipe

O
PLm = pressure loss in the water meter
(b)
(c)
(d)*
The ceiling configuration
The temperature rating
Any additional conditions specified by the sprinkler
manufacturer

F
PLd = pressure loss from devices other than the water meter (7) Step 7 — Calculate PLt. Using the equation in [Link],
PLe = pressure loss associated with changes in elevation calculate the pressure available to offset friction loss in
Psp = maximum pressure required by a sprinkler water distribution piping between the service valve and
[Link] Calculation Procedure. Determination of the re‐ the sprinklers.
quired size for water distribution piping shall be in accordance (8) Step 8 — Determine the maximum allowable pipe length. Use
with the following procedure: Table [Link](c) through Table [Link](h) to select a
material and size for water distribution piping. The
(1) Step 1 — Determine Psup. Obtain the static supply pressure piping material and size shall be acceptable if the devel‐
that will be available from the water main from the water oped length of pipe between the service valve and the
purveyor or from a private source, such as a tank system, most remote sprinkler does not exceed the maximum
a private well system, or a combination of these. For a allowable length specified by the applicable table. Inter‐
private source, the available water supply pressure shall polation of Pt between the tabular values shall be permit‐
be based on the minimum pressure control setting for ted.
the pump.
(2) Step 2 — Determine PLsvc. Use Table [Link](a) to deter‐
mine the pressure loss in the water service pipe based on
the selected size of the water service.

2019 Edition Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material.
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

DISCHARGE AND HYDRAULIC CALCULATIONS 13D-27

Δ Table [Link](a) Water Service Pressure Loss (PLsvc)

3
∕4 in. Water Service Pressure Loss 1 in. Water Service Pressure Loss 11∕4 in. Water Service Pressure Loss
(psi) (psi) (psi)
Flow Rate* 41 ft to 76 ft to 101 ft to 41 ft to 76 ft to 101 ft to 41 ft to 76 ft to 101 ft to
(gpm) 40 ft or less 75 ft 100 ft 150 ft 40 ft or less 75 ft 100 ft 150 ft 40 ft or less 75 ft 100 ft 150 ft
8 5.1 8.7 11.8 17.4 1.5 2.5 3.4 5.1 0.6 1.0 1.3 1.9
10 7.7 13.1 17.8 26.3 2.3 3.8 5.2 7.7 0.8 1.4 2.0 2.9
12 10.8 18.4 24.9 NP 3.2 5.4 7.3 10.7 1.2 2.0 2.7 4.0
14 14.4 24.5 NP NP 4.2 7.1 9.6 14.3 1.6 2.7 3.6 5.4
16 18.4 NP NP NP 5.4 9.1 12.4 18.3 2.0 3.4 4.7 6.9
18 22.9 NP NP NP 6.7 11.4 15.4 22.7 2.5 4.3 5.8 8.6
20 27.8 NP NP NP 8.1 13.8 18.7 27.6 3.1 5.2 7.0 10.4
22 NP NP NP NP 9.7 16.5 22.3 NP 3.7 6.2 8.4 12.4
24
26
28
30
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
11.4
13.2
15.1
17.2
19.3
22.4
25.7
NP
26.2
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
4.3
5.0
5.7
6.5
7.3
8.5
9.7
11.0
9.9
11.4

L
13.1
14.9 Y 14.6
16.9
19.4
22.0

N
32 NP NP NP NP 19.4 NP NP NP 7.3 12.4 16.8 24.8
34 NP NP NP NP 21.7 NP NP NP 8.2 13.9 18.8 NP
36 NP NP NP NP 24.1 NP NP NP 9.1 15.4 20.9 NP
20 mm pipe
13 m to 23 m to 31 m to
25 mm Pipe
13 m to 23 m to 31 m to O 32 mm Pipe
13 m to 23 m to 31 m to

E
Rate* 12 m or 12 m or 12 m or
(lpm) less 23 m 30 m 49 m less 23 m 30 m 49 m less 23 m 30 m 49 m

S
30 0.4 0.6 0.8 1.2 0.1 0.2 0.2 0.4 0.0 0.1 0.1 0.1
38 0.5 0.9 1.2 1.8 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.2
45 0.7 1.3 1.7 NP 0.2 0.4 0.5 0.7 0.1 0.1 0.2 0.3
53
61
68
76
83
1.0
1.3
1.6
1.9
NP
1.7
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
0.3
0.4
0.5
0.6
0.7
0.5
0.6
0.8
1.0
1.1
L U 0.7
0.9
1.1
1.3
1.5
1.0
1.3
1.6
1.9
NP
0.1
0.1
0.2
0.2
0.3
0.2
0.2
0.3
0.4
0.4
0.2
0.3
0.4
0.5
0.6
0.4
0.5
0.6
0.7
0.9
91
98
106
114
121
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
0.8
0.9
1.0
1.2
1.3
U A 1.3
1.5
1.8
NP
NP
1.8
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
0.3
0.3
0.4
0.4
0.5
0.5
0.6
0.7
0.8
0.9
0.7
0.8
0.9
1.0
1.2
1.0
1.2
1.3
1.5
1.7

{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
129
136
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP

I D NP
NP
1.5
1.7
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
0.6
0.6
1.0
1.1
1.3
1.4
NP
NP

V
NP: Not permitted. Pressure loss exceeds reasonable limits.

I
Notes:
(1) Values are applicable for underground piping materials permitted by the local plumbing code and are based on an SDR of 11 and a Hazen-

D
Williams C factor of 150.
(2) Values include the following length allowances for fittings: 25 percent length increase for actual lengths up to 100 ft (30.5 m) and 15 percent

IN
length increase for actual lengths over 100 ft (30.5 m).
*Flow rate from Sections 10.1 and 10.2. Add 5 gpm (18.9 lpm) to the flow rate required by [Link], Step 4, where the water service pipe supplies
more than one dwelling.

O R
Δ Table [Link](b) Elevation Loss (PLe)

Elevation Pressure Loss

F (ft)(m)
5 (1.5)
10 (3)
15 (4.6)
(psi)(bar)
2.2 (0.15)
4.4 (0.30)
6.5(0.45)
20 (6.1) 8.7 (0.6)
25 (7.6) 10.9 (0.75)
30 (9.1) 13.0 (0.89)
35 (11) 15.2 (1.0)
40 (12) 17.4 (1.2)

Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material. 2019 Edition
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

13D-28 INSTALLATION OF SPRINKLER SYSTEMS IN ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS AND MANUFACTURED HOMES

Δ Table [Link](c) Allowable Pipe Length for 3∕4 in. Type M Copper Water Tubing

Available Pressure, Pt (psi)

Water
15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60
Sprinkler Flow Distribution
Rate* (gpm) Size (in.) Allowable Length of Pipe from Service Valve to Farthest Sprinkler (ft)
8 3
∕4 217 289 361 434 506 578 650 723 795 867
9 3
∕4 174 232 291 349 407 465 523 581 639 697
10 3
∕4 143 191 239 287 335 383 430 478 526 574
11 3
∕4 120 160 200 241 281 321 361 401 441 481
12 3
∕4 102 137 171 205 239 273 307 341 375 410
13 3
∕4 88 118 147 177 206 235 265 294 324 353
14 3
∕4 77 103 128 154 180 205 231 257 282 308
15 3
∕4 68 90 113 136 158 181 203 226 248 271
16 3
∕4 60 80 100 120 140 160 180 200 220 241
17
18
19
20
3
3
3
3
∕4
∕4
∕4
∕4
54
48
44
40
72
64
58
53
90
81
73
66
108
97
88
80
125
113
102
93
143
129
117
106
161
145
131
119
179
161
146
133
197
177
160
146
L Y 215
193
175
159

N
21 3
∕4 36 48 61 73 85 97 109 121 133 145
22 3
∕4 33 44 56 67 78 89 100 111 122 133
23 3
∕4 31 41 51 61 72 82 92 102 113 123
24 ∕4 28 38 47 57 66 76 85 95

O 104 114
3

25 3
∕4 26 35 44 53 61 70 79 88 97 105
26 3
∕4 24 33 41 49 57 65 73 82 90 98

E
27 3
∕4 23 30 38 46 53 61 69 76 84 91
28 3
∕4 21 28 36 43 50 57 64 71 78 85

S
29 3
∕4 20 27 33 40 47 53 60 67 73 80
30 3
∕4 19 25 31 38 44 50 56 63 69 75
31 3
∕4 18 24 29 35 41 47 53 59 65 71
32 ∕4 17 22 28 33 39

U 44 50 56 61 67
3

33 3
∕4 16 21 26 32 37 42 47 53 58 63
34 3
∕4 NP 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60
35 ∕4 NP 19 24 28 33

L 38 42 47 52 57
3

36 3
∕4 NP 18 22 27 31 36 40 45 49 54

A
37 3
∕4 NP 17 21 26 30 34 38 43 47 51
38 3
∕4 NP 16 20 24 28 32 36 40 45 49
39 3
∕4 NP 15 19 23 27 31 35 39 42 46
40 ∕4 NP NP 18

U
22 26 29 33 37 40 44
3

Available Pressure Pt (bar)

{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
Sprinkler Flow Rate
1.0 1.4

I D 1.7 2.1 2.4 2.8 2.9 3.4 3.8 4.1

V
(lpm) Allowable Length of pipe from Service Valve to Farthest Sprinkler (m)
30
34
38
42
45
66
53
44
37
31
D I 88
71
58
49
42
110
89
73
61
52
132
106
87
73
62
154
124
102
86
73
176
142
117
98
83
198
159
131
110
94
220
177
146
122
104
242
195
160
134
114
264
212
175
147
125

IN
49 27 36 45 54 63 72 81 90 99 108
53 23 31 39 47 55 62 70 78 86 94
57 21 27 34 41 48 55 62 69 76 83
61 18 24 30 37 43 49 55 61 67 73

R
64 16 22 27 33 38 44 49 55 60 66
68 15 20 25 30 34 39 44 49 54 59
72 13 18 22 27 31 36 40 45 49 53

O
76 12 16 20 24 28 32 36 41 45 48
79 11 15 19 22 26 30 33 37 41 44

F
83 10 13 17 20 24 27 30 34 37 41
87 9.4 12 16 19 22 25 28 31 34 37
91 8.5 12 14 17 20 23 26 29 32 35
95 7.9 11 13 16 19 21 24 27 30 32
98 7.3 10 12 15 17 20 22 25 27 30
102 7.0 9.1 12 14 16 19 21 23 26 28
106 6.4 8.5 11 13 15 17 20 22 24 26
110 6.1 8.2 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24
114 5.8 7.6 9.4 12 13 15 17 19 21 23
117 5.5 7.3 8.8 11 12 14 16 18 20 22
121 5.2 6.7 8.5 10 12 13 15 17 19 20
125 4.9 6.4 7.9 9.8 11 13 14 16 18 19
129 NP 6.1 7.6 9.1 11 12 14 15 17 18
132 NP 5.8 7.3 8.5 10 12 13 14 16 17
136 NP 5.5 6.7 8.2 9.4 11 12 14 15 16
140 NP 5.2 6.4 7.9 9.1 10 12 13 14 16
144 NP 4.9 6.1 7.3 8.5 9.8 11 12 14 15
148 NP 4.6 5.8 7.0 8.2 9.4 11 12 13 14
151 NP NP 5.5 6.7 7.9 8.8 10 11 12 13
NP: Not permitted.
*Flow rate from Sections 10.1 and 10.2.

2019 Edition Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material.
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

DISCHARGE AND HYDRAULIC CALCULATIONS 13D-29

Δ Table [Link](d) Allowable Pipe Length for 1 in. Type M Copper Water Tubing

Available Pressure, Pt (psi)

Sprinkler Flow Water
15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60
Rate* Distribution
(gpm) Size (in.) Allowable Length of Pipe from Service Valve to Farthest Sprinkler (ft)
8 1 806 1075 1343 1612 1881 2149 2418 2687 2955 3224
9 1 648 864 1080 1296 1512 1728 1945 2161 2377 2593
10 1 533 711 889 1067 1245 1422 1600 1778 1956 2134
11 1 447 596 745 894 1043 1192 1341 1491 1640 1789
12 1 381 508 634 761 888 1015 1142 1269 1396 1523
13 1 328 438 547 657 766 875 985 1094 1204 1313
14 1 286 382 477 572 668 763 859 954 1049 1145
15 1 252 336 420 504 588 672 756 840 924 1008
16 1 224 298 373 447 522 596 671 745 820 894
17
18
19
20
1
1
1
1
200
180
163
148
266
240
217
197
333
300
271
247
400
360
325
296
466
420
380
345
533
479
434
395
600
539
488
444
666
599
542
493
733
659
597
543
L Y 799
719
651
592

N
21 1 135 180 225 270 315 360 406 451 496 541
22 1 124 165 207 248 289 331 372 413 455 496
23 1 114 152 190 228 267 305 343 381 419 457
24
25
26
1
1
1
106
98
91
141
131
121
176
163
152
211
196
182
246
228
212
282
261
243
317
294
273
O352
326
304
387
359
334
422
392
364

E
27 1 85 113 142 170 198 226 255 283 311 340
28 1 79 106 132 159 185 212 238 265 291 318

S
29 1 74 99 124 149 174 198 223 248 273 298
30 1 70 93 116 140 163 186 210 233 256 280
31 1 66 88 110 132 153 175 197 219 241 263

U
32 1 62 83 103 124 145 165 186 207 227 248
33 1 59 78 98 117 137 156 176 195 215 234
34 1 55 74 92 111 129 148 166 185 203 222
35
36
37
38
39
1
1
1
1
1
53
50
47
45
43
70
66
63
60
57
88
83
79
75
72
A
105
100
95
90
86
L
123
116
111
105
100
140
133
126
120
115
158
150
142
135
129
175
166
158
150
143
193
183
174
165
158
210
199
190
181
172
40 1

{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
41 55

D
68

U 82 96 109
Available Pressure Pt (bar)
123 137 150 164

Sprinkler Flow Rate

(lpm)
1.0 1.4

V I 1.7 2.1 2.4 2.8 2.9

Allowable Length of pipe from Service Valve to Farthest Sprinkler (m)
3.4 3.8 4.1

30
34
38
42
45
246
198
162
136
116
D I 328
263
217
182
155
409
329
271
227
193
491
395
325
272
232
573
461
379
318
271
655
527
433
363
309
737
593
488
409
348
819
659
542
454
387
901
725
596
500
426
983
790
650
545
464

IN
49 100 134 167 200 233 267 300 333 367 400
53 87 116 145 174 204 233 262 291 320 349
57 77 102 128 154 179 205 230 256 282 307
61 68 91 114 136 159 182 205 227 250 272

R
64 61 81 101 122 142 162 183 203 223 244
68 55 73 91 110 128 146 164 183 201 219
72 50 66 83 99 116 132 149 165 182 198

O
76 45 60 75 90 105 120 135 150 166 180
79 41 55 69 82 96 110 124 137 151 165

F
83 38 50 63 76 88 101 113 126 139 151
87 35 46 58 69 81 93 105 116 128 139
91 32 43 54 64 75 86 97 107 118 129
95 30 40 50 60 69 80 90 99 109 119
98 28 37 46 55 65 74 83 93 102 111
102 26 34 43 52 60 69 78 86 95 104
106 24 32 40 48 56 65 73 81 89 97
110 23 30 38 45 53 60 68 76 83 91
114 21 28 35 43 50 57 64 71 78 85
117 20 27 34 40 47 53 60 67 73 80
121 19 25 31 38 44 50 57 63 69 76
125 18 24 30 36 42 48 54 59 66 71
129 17 23 28 34 39 45 51 56 62 68
132 16 21 27 32 37 43 48 53 59 64
136 15 20 25 30 35 41 46 51 56 61
140 14 19 24 29 34 38 43 48 53 58
144 14 18 23 27 32 37 41 46 50 55
148 13 17 22 26 30 35 39 44 48 52
151 12 17 21 25 29 33 37 42 46 50
*Flow rate from Sections 10.1 and 10.2.

Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material. 2019 Edition
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

13D-30 INSTALLATION OF SPRINKLER SYSTEMS IN ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS AND MANUFACTURED HOMES

Δ Table [Link](e) Allowable Pipe Length for 3∕4 in. CPVC (IPS) Pipe

Water Available Pressure, Pt (psi)

Sprinkler Flow Distribution
15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60
Rate* Size
(gpm) (in.) Allowable Length of Pipe from Service Valve to Farthest Sprinkler (ft)
8 3
∕4 348 465 581 697 813 929 1045 1161 1278 1394
9 3
∕4 280 374 467 560 654 747 841 934 1027 1121
10 3
∕4 231 307 384 461 538 615 692 769 845 922
11 3
∕4 193 258 322 387 451 515 580 644 709 773
12 3
∕4 165 219 274 329 384 439 494 549 603 658
13 3
∕4 142 189 237 284 331 378 426 473 520 568
14 3
∕4 124 165 206 247 289 330 371 412 454 495
15 3
∕4 109 145 182 218 254 290 327 363 399 436
16 3
∕4 97 129 161 193 226 258 290 322 354 387
17
18
19
20
3
3
3
3
∕4
∕4
∕4
∕4
86
78
70
64
115
104
94
85
144
130
117
107
173
155
141
128
202
181
164
149
230
207
188
171
259
233
211
192
288
259
234
213
317
285
258
235
L Y 346
311
281
256

N
21 3
∕4 58 78 97 117 136 156 175 195 214 234
22 3
∕4 54 71 89 107 125 143 161 179 197 214
23 3
∕4 49 66 82 99 115 132 148 165 181 198
24 ∕4 46 61 76 91 107 122 137 152

O 167 183
3

25 3
∕4 42 56 71 85 99 113 127 141 155 169
26 3
∕4 39 52 66 79 92 105 118 131 144 157

E
27 3
∕4 37 49 61 73 86 98 110 122 135 147
28 3
∕4 34 46 57 69 80 92 103 114 126 137

S
29 3
∕4 32 43 54 64 75 86 96 107 118 129
30 3
∕4 30 40 50 60 70 81 91 101 111 121
31 3
∕4 28 38 47 57 66 76 85 95 104 114
32 ∕4 27 36 45 54 63

U 71 80 89 98 107
3

33 3
∕4 25 34 42 51 59 68 76 84 93 101
34 3
∕4 24 32 40 48 56 64 72 80 88 96
35 ∕4 23 30 38 45 53

L 61 68 76 83 91
3

36 3
∕4 22 29 36 43 50 57 65 72 79 86

A
37 3
∕4 20 27 34 41 48 55 61 68 75 82
38 3
∕4 20 26 33 39 46 52 59 65 72 78
39 3
∕4 19 25 31 37 43 50 56 62 68 74
40 ∕4 18 24 30

U35 41 47 53 59 65 71
3

Available Pressure Pt (bar)

{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
Sprinkler Flow Rate
1.0 1.4

I D 1.7 2.1 2.4 2.8 2.9 3.4 3.8 4.1

V
(lpm) Allowable Length of pipe from Service Valve to Farthest Sprinkler (m)
30
34
38
42
45
106
85
70
59
50
D I 142
114
94
79
67
177
142
117
98
84
212
171
141
118
100
248
199
164
137
117
283
228
187
157
134
319
256
211
177
151
354
285
234
196
167
390
313
258
216
184
425
342
281
236
201

IN
49 43 58 72 87 101 115 130 144 158 173
53 38 50 63 75 88 101 113 126 138 151
57 33 44 55 66 77 88 100 111 122 133
61 30 39 49 59 69 79 88 98 108 118

R
64 26 35 44 53 62 70 79 88 97 105
68 24 32 40 47 55 63 71 79 87 95
72 21 29 36 43 50 57 64 71 79 86

O
76 20 26 33 39 45 52 59 65 72 78
79 18 24 30 36 41 48 53 59 65 71

F
83 16 22 27 33 38 44 49 55 60 65
87 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60
91 14 19 23 28 33 37 42 46 51 56
95 13 17 22 26 30 34 39 43 47 52
98 12 16 20 24 28 32 36 40 44 48
102 11 15 19 22 26 30 34 37 41 45
106 10 14 17 21 24 28 31 35 38 42
110 10 13 16 20 23 26 29 33 36 39
114 9.1 12 15 18 21 25 28 31 34 37
117 8.5 12 14 17 20 23 26 29 32 35
121 8.2 11 14 16 19 22 24 27 30 33
125 7.6 10 13 16 18 21 23 26 28 31
129 7.3 10 12 15 17 20 22 24 27 29
132 7.0 9.1 12 14 16 19 21 23 25 28
136 6.7 8.8 11 13 15 17 20 22 24 26
140 6.1 8.2 10 12 15 17 19 21 23 25
144 6.1 7.9 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24
148 5.8 7.6 9.4 11 13 15 17 19 21 23
151 5.5 7.3 9.1 11 12 14 16 18 20 22
*Flow rate from Sections 10.1 and 10.2.

2019 Edition Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material.
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

DISCHARGE AND HYDRAULIC CALCULATIONS 13D-31

Δ Table [Link](f) Allowable Pipe Length for 1 in. CPVC (IPS) Pipe

Water Available Pressure, Pt (psi)

Sprinkler Flow Distribution
15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60
Rate* Size
(gpm) (in.) Allowable Length of Pipe from Service Valve to Farthest Sprinkler (ft)
8 1 1049 1398 1748 2098 2447 2797 3146 3496 3845 4195
9 1 843 1125 1406 1687 1968 2249 2530 2811 3093 3374
10 1 694 925 1157 1388 1619 1851 2082 2314 2545 2776
11 1 582 776 970 1164 1358 1552 1746 1940 2133 2327
12 1 495 660 826 991 1156 1321 1486 1651 1816 1981
13 1 427 570 712 854 997 1139 1281 1424 1566 1709
14 1 372 497 621 745 869 993 1117 1241 1366 1490
15 1 328 437 546 656 765 874 983 1093 1202 1311
16 1 291 388 485 582 679 776 873 970 1067 1164
17
18
19
20
1
1
1
1
260
234
212
193
347
312
282
257
433
390
353
321
520
468
423
385
607
546
494
449
693
624
565
513
780
702
635
578
867
780
706
642
954
858
776
706
L Y 1040
936
847
770

N
21 1 176 235 293 352 410 469 528 586 645 704
22 1 161 215 269 323 377 430 484 538 592 646
23 1 149 198 248 297 347 396 446 496 545 595
24
25
26
1
1
1
137
127
118
183
170
158
229
212
197
275
255
237
321
297
276
366
340
316
412
382
355
O 458
425
395
504
467
434
550
510
474

E
27 1 111 147 184 221 258 295 332 368 405 442
28 1 103 138 172 207 241 275 310 344 379 413

S
29 1 97 129 161 194 226 258 290 323 355 387
30 1 91 121 152 182 212 242 273 303 333 364
31 1 86 114 143 171 200 228 257 285 314 342

U
32 1 81 108 134 161 188 215 242 269 296 323
33 1 76 102 127 152 178 203 229 254 280 305
34 1 72 96 120 144 168 192 216 240 265 289
35
36
37
38
39
1
1
1
1
1
68
65
62
59
56
91
87
82
78
75
114
108
103
98
93
A
137
130
123
117
112
L 160
151
144
137
131
182
173
165
157
149
205
195
185
176
168
228
216
206
196
187
251
238
226
215
205
273
260
247
235
224
40 1

{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
53 71

D
89

U 107 125 142

Available Pressure Pt (bar)
160 178 196 214

Sprinkler Flow Rate

(lpm)
1.0

V I
1.4 1.7 2.1 2.4 2.8 2.9
Allowable Length of pipe from Service Valve to Farthest Sprinkler (m)
3.4 3.8 4.1

30
34
38
42
45
320
257

D
212
177
151
I 426
343
282
237
201
533
429
353
296
252
639
514
423
355
302
746
600
493
414
352
853
685
564
473
403
959
771
635
532
453
1066
857
705
591
503
1172
943
776
650
554
1279
1028
846
709
604

IN
49 130 174 217 260 304 347 390 434 477 521
53 113 151 189 227 265 303 340 378 416 454
57 100 133 166 200 233 266 300 333 366 400
61 89 118 148 177 207 237 266 296 325 355

R
64 79 106 132 158 185 211 238 264 291 317
68 71 95 119 143 166 190 214 238 262 285
72 65 86 108 129 151 172 194 215 237 258

O
76 59 78 98 117 137 156 176 196 215 235
79 54 72 89 107 125 143 161 179 197 215

F
83 49 66 82 98 115 131 148 164 180 197
87 45 60 76 91 106 121 136 151 166 181
91 42 56 70 84 98 112 126 140 154 168
95 39 52 65 78 91 104 116 130 142 155
98 36 48 60 72 84 96 108 120 132 144
102 34 45 56 67 79 90 101 112 123 135
106 31 42 52 63 73 84 94 105 116 126
110 30 39 49 59 69 79 88 98 108 118
114 28 37 46 55 65 74 83 92 101 111
117 26 35 44 52 61 69 78 87 96 104
121 25 33 41 49 57 66 74 82 90 98
125 23 31 39 46 54 62 70 77 85 93
129 22 29 37 44 51 59 66 73 81 88
132 21 28 35 42 49 55 62 69 77 83
136 20 27 33 40 46 53 59 66 73 79
140 19 25 31 37 44 50 56 63 69 75
144 18 24 30 36 42 48 54 60 66 72
148 17 23 28 34 40 45 51 57 62 68
151 16 22 27 33 38 43 49 54 60 65
*Flow rate from Sections 10.1 and 10.2.

Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material. 2019 Edition
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

13D-32 INSTALLATION OF SPRINKLER SYSTEMS IN ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS AND MANUFACTURED HOMES

Δ Table [Link](g) Allowable Pipe Length for 3∕4 in. PEX Tubing

Water Available Pressure,Pt (psi)

Sprinkler Flow Distribution
15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60
Rate* Size
(gpm) (in.) Allowable Length of Pipe from Service Valve to Farthest Sprinkler (ft)
8 3
∕4 93 123 154 185 216 247 278 309 339 370
9 3
∕4 74 99 124 149 174 199 223 248 273 298
10 3
∕4 61 82 102 123 143 163 184 204 225 245
11 3
∕4 51 68 86 103 120 137 154 171 188 205
12 3
∕4 44 58 73 87 102 117 131 146 160 175
13 3
∕4 38 50 63 75 88 101 113 126 138 151
14 3
∕4 33 44 55 66 77 88 99 110 121 132
15 3
∕4 29 39 48 58 68 77 87 96 106 116
16 3
∕4 26 34 43 51 60 68 77 86 94 103
17
18
19
20
3
3
3
3
∕4
∕4
∕4
∕4
23
21
19
17
31
28
25
23
38
34
31
28
46
41
37
34
54
48
44
40
61
55
50
45
69
62
56
51
77
69
62
57
84
76
69
62
L Y 92
83
75
68

N
21 3
∕4 16 21 26 31 36 41 47 52 57 62
22 3
∕4 NP 19 24 28 33 38 43 47 52 57
23 3
∕4 NP 17 22 26 31 35 39 44 48 52
24 ∕4 NP 16 20 24 28 32 36 40

O 44 49
3

25 3
∕4 NP NP 19 22 26 30 34 37 41 45
26 3
∕4 NP NP 17 21 24 28 31 35 38 42

E
27 3
∕4 NP NP 16 20 23 26 29 33 36 39
28 3
∕4 NP NP 15 18 21 24 27 30 33 36

S
29 3
∕4 NP NP NP 17 20 23 26 28 31 34
30 3
∕4 NP NP NP 16 19 21 24 27 29 32
31 3
∕4 NP NP NP 15 18 20 23 25 28 30
32 ∕4 NP NP NP NP 17

U 19 21 24 26 28
3

33 3
∕4 NP NP NP NP 16 18 20 22 25 27
34 3
∕4 NP NP NP NP NP 17 19 21 23 25
35 ∕4 NP NP NP NP NP

L 16 18 20 22 24
3

36 3
∕4 NP NP NP NP NP 15 17 19 21 23

A
37 3
∕4 NP NP NP NP NP NP 16 18 20 22
38 3
∕4 NP NP NP NP NP NP 16 17 19 21
39 3
∕4 NP NP NP NP NP NP NP 16 18 20
40 ∕4 NP NP NP

U
NP NP NP NP 16 17 19
3

Allowable Pipe Length for 20 mm PEX Tubing

{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
Sprinkler Flow Rate
1.0 1.4

I D 1.7 2.1 2.4 2.8 2.9 3.4 3.8 4.1

V
(lpm) Allowable Length of Pipe from Service Valve to Farthest Sprinkler (m)
30
34
38
42
45
28
23
19
16
13
D I 37
30
25
21
18
47
38
31
26
22
56
45
37
31
27
66
53
44
37
31
75
61
50
42
36
85
68
56
47
40
94
76
62
52
45
103
83
69
57
49
113
91
75
62
53

IN
49 12 15 19 23 27 31 34 38 42 46
53 10 13 17 20 23 27 30 34 37 40
57 9 12 15 18 21 23 27 29 32 35
61 8 10 13 16 18 21 23 26 29 31

R
64 7 9 12 14 16 19 21 23 26 28
68 6 9 10 12 15 17 19 21 23 25
72 6 8 9 11 13 15 17 19 21 23

O
76 5 7 9 10 12 14 16 17 19 21
79 5 6 8 9 11 12 14 16 17 19

F
83 NP 6 7 9 10 12 13 14 16 17
87 NP 5 7 8 9 11 12 13 15 16
91 NP 5 6 7 9 10 11 12 13 15
95 NP NP 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 14
98 NP NP 5 6 7 9 9 11 12 13
102 NP NP 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
106 NP NP 5 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
110 NP NP NP 5 6 7 8 9 9 10
114 NP NP NP 5 6 6 7 8 9 10
117 NP NP NP 5 5 6 7 8 9 9
121 NP NP NP NP 5 6 6 7 8 9
125 NP NP NP NP 5 5 6 7 8 8
129 NP NP NP NP NP 5 6 6 7 8
132 NP NP NP NP NP 5 5 6 7 7
136 NP NP NP NP NP 5 5 6 6 7
140 NP NP NP NP NP NP 5 5 6 7
144 NP NP NP NP NP NP 5 5 6 6
148 NP NP NP NP NP NP NP 5 5 6
151 NP NP NP NP NP NP NP 5 5 6
NP: Not permitted.
*Flow rate from Sections 10.1 and 10.2.

2019 Edition Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material.
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

DISCHARGE AND HYDRAULIC CALCULATIONS 13D-33

Δ Table [Link](h) Allowable Pipe Length for 1 in. PEX Tubing

Water Available Pressure, Pt (psi)

Sprinkler Flow Distribution
15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60
Rate* Size
(gpm) (in.) Allowable Length of Pipe from Service Valve to Farthest Sprinkler (ft)
8 1 314 418 523 628 732 837 941 1046 1151 1255
9 1 252 336 421 505 589 673 757 841 925 1009
10 1 208 277 346 415 485 554 623 692 761 831
11 1 174 232 290 348 406 464 522 580 638 696
12 1 148 198 247 296 346 395 445 494 543 593
13 1 128 170 213 256 298 341 383 426 469 511
14 1 111 149 186 223 260 297 334 371 409 446
15 1 98 131 163 196 229 262 294 327 360 392
16 1 87 116 145 174 203 232 261 290 319 348
17
18
19
20
1
1
1
1
78
70
63
58
104
93
84
77
130
117
106
96
156
140
127
115
182
163
148
134
208
187
169
154
233
210
190
173
259
233
211
192
285
257
232
211
L Y 311
280
253
230

N
21 1 53 70 88 105 123 140 158 175 193 211
22 1 48 64 80 97 113 129 145 161 177 193
23 1 44 59 74 89 104 119 133 148 163 178
24
25
26
1
1
1
41
38
35
55
51
47
69
64
59
82
76
71
96
89
83
110
102
95
123
114
106
O 137
127
118
151
140
130
164
152
142

E
27 1 33 44 55 66 77 88 99 110 121 132
28 1 31 41 52 62 72 82 93 103 113 124

S
29 1 29 39 48 58 68 77 87 97 106 116
30 1 27 36 45 54 63 73 82 91 100 109
31 1 26 34 43 51 60 68 77 85 94 102

U
32 1 24 32 40 48 56 64 72 80 89 97
33 1 23 30 38 46 53 61 68 76 84 91
34 1 22 29 36 43 50 58 65 72 79 86
35
36
37
38
39
1
1
1
1
1
20
19
18
18
17
27
26
25
23
22
34
32
31
29
28
A
41
39
37
35
33
L 48
45
43
41
39
55
52
49
47
45
61
58
55
53
50
68
65
62
59
56
75
71
68
64
61
82
78
74
70
67
40 1

{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
16 21

D
27

U 32 37 43
Available Pressure Pt (bar)
48 53 59 64

Sprinkler Flow Rate

(lpm)
1.0

V I
1.4 1.7 2.1 2.4 2.8 2.9
Allowable Length of pipe from Service Valve to Farthest Sprinkler (m)
3.4 3.8 4.1

30
34
38
42
45
96
77

D
63
53
45
I 127
102
84
71
60
159
128
105
88
75
191
154
126
106
90
223
180
148
124
105
255
205
169
141
120
287
231
190
159
136
319
256
211
177
151
351
282
232
194
166
383
308
253
212
181

IN
49 39 52 65 78 91 104 117 130 143 156
53 34 45 57 68 79 91 102 113 125 136
57 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 110 119
61 27 35 44 53 62 71 80 88 97 106

R
64 24 32 40 48 55 63 71 79 87 95
68 21 28 36 43 50 57 64 71 78 85
72 19 26 32 39 45 52 58 64 71 77

O
76 18 23 29 35 41 47 53 59 64 70
79 16 21 27 32 37 43 48 53 59 64

F
83 15 20 24 30 34 39 44 49 54 59
87 13 18 23 27 32 36 41 45 50 54
91 12 17 21 25 29 34 37 42 46 50
95 12 16 20 23 27 31 35 39 43 46
98 11 14 18 22 25 29 32 36 40 43
102 10 13 17 20 23 27 30 34 37 40
106 9.4 12 16 19 22 25 28 31 34 38
110 8.8 12 15 18 21 23 27 30 32 35
114 8.2 11 14 16 19 22 25 28 30 33
117 7.9 10 13 16 18 21 23 26 29 31
121 7.3 10 12 15 17 20 22 24 27 30
125 7.0 9.1 12 14 16 19 21 23 26 28
129 6.7 8.8 11 13 15 18 20 22 24 26
132 6.1 8.2 10 12 15 17 19 21 23 25
136 5.8 7.9 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24
140 5.5 7.6 9.4 11 13 15 17 19 21 23
144 5.5 7.0 8.8 11 12 14 16 18 20 21
148 5.2 6.7 8.5 10 12 14 15 17 19 20
151 4.9 6.4 8.2 10 11 13 15 16 18 20
*Flow rate from Sections 10.1 and 10.2.

Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material. 2019 Edition
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

13D-34 INSTALLATION OF SPRINKLER SYSTEMS IN ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS AND MANUFACTURED HOMES

[Link] The maximum allowable length of piping in Table [Link].1 All times shall be measured from the time the
[Link](c) through Table [Link](h) incorporates an adjust‐ inspector’s test connection is completely open.
ment for pipe fittings, and no additional consideration of fric‐
tion losses associated with pipe fittings shall be required.
Chapter 12 Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance

Chapter 11 System Acceptance 12.1* General. The installer shall provide to the owner/occu‐
pant instructions on inspecting, testing, and maintaining the
11.1 General. system.
11.1.1 The installer shall perform all required acceptance 12.2* Inspections and Tests. The sprinkler system shall be
tests prior to asking for approval of the installation. inspected and tested periodically to make sure the system is in
good working condition.
11.1.2 When the authority having jurisdiction is required to
be present during the acceptance tests, the installer shall coor‐
dinate the time and date of testing with the authority having
jurisdiction and other interested parties.
12.3 Maintenance.
12.3.1 The sprinkler system shall be properly maintained in
accordance with this standard and the manufacturers’ instruc‐
L Y
11.2 Acceptance Tests.
11.2.1* Hydrostatic Tests.
[Link] Where a fire department pumper connection is not
provided, the system shall be hydrostatically tested at normal
tions.

O N
12.3.2 Any sprinkler that is operated, damaged, corroded,
covered with foreign materials, or showing signs of leakage
shall be replaced with a new listed sprinkler having the same

E
performance characteristics as the original equipment.
system operating pressure without evidence of leakage.
[Link]* Where replacing residential sprinklers manufac‐
[Link] Where a fire department pumper connection is provi‐
ded, the system shall pass a hydrostatic pressure test performed
in accordance with NFPA 13.
[Link] Evidence of leakage shall be determined by a drop in U S
tured prior to 2003 that are no longer available from the manu‐
facturer and are installed using a design density less than
0.05 gpm/ft2 (2.04 mm/min), a residential sprinkler with an
equivalent K-factor (± 5 percent) shall be permitted to be used
pressure at a gauge over a period of 2 hours or by visually
checking the piping system for leakage.
[Link] When systems are being hydrostatically tested, the test
A L
provided the currently listed coverage area for the replacement
sprinkler is not exceeded.
12.3.3 Painting Sprinklers.
shall be permitted to be conducted with sprinklers or plugs
installed in the fittings.
U [Link] Sprinklers shall not be painted unless applied by the

ID
manufacturer.
{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
[Link].1 Any plugs used during the hydrostatic testing shall
be replaced with sprinklers after the test is completed.
[Link]* Any sprinklers that have been painted outside of the

IV
factory shall be replaced with a new listed sprinkler.
[Link].2 No additional hydrostatic testing shall be required
12.3.4* Wet Pipe Systems. A wet pipe system shall be main‐
after the sprinklers are installed.

D
tained above 40°F (4°C), including areas properly insulated to
11.2.2* Pump Tests. maintain 40°F (4°C).

N
[Link] Prior to system acceptance, a system utilizing a pump

I
shall be tested by opening the drain/test connection.
[Link].1* The pump shall sense the flow, turn on, and flow
12.3.5* Antifreeze Systems.
[Link] Annual Antifreeze Solution Test and Replacement
Procedure.

ruption.

O R
water for the required duration of 6.1.2 or 6.1.3 without inter‐

11.2.3 System Operational Tests.

[Link].1 Samples of antifreeze solution shall be collected by
qualified individuals in accordance with [Link].1.2 or
[Link].1.3 on an annual basis.

F
[Link] Waterflow Devices. Where waterflow detection devi‐
ces are installed, these devices, including the associated alarm
circuits, shall be flow tested through the inspector’s test
connection and shall result in an audible alarm on the prem‐
[Link].1.1 The system shall be drained to verify the follow‐
ing:
(1)
(2)
The solution is in compliance with [Link].1.
The solution provides the necessary freeze protection.
ises.
[Link].1.2 Solution samples shall be taken near the begin‐
[Link] Preaction Systems. The operation of the preaction ning and near the end of the draining process.
system shall be tested in accordance with the manufacturer’s
instructions. [Link].1.3* Solution samples shall be taken at the highest
practical elevation and the lowest practical elevation of the
[Link] Dry Pipe and Double-Interlock Preaction Systems. A system.
test shall be conducted in accordance with the valve manufac‐
turer’s instructions to measure the time to trip the valve and [Link].2 The two samples collected in accordance with the
the time for water to be discharged from the inspector’s test procedures specified in [Link].1.2 or [Link].1.3 shall be
connection. tested to verify that the specific gravity of both samples is simi‐
lar and that the solution is in compliance with [Link].1.

2019 Edition Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material.
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

ANNEX A 13D-35

[Link].2.1 The specific gravity of each solution shall be Annex A Explanatory Material
checked using a hydrometer with a suitable scale or a refrac‐ Annex A is not a part of the requirements of this NFPA document but is
tometer having a scale calibrated for the antifreeze solution. included for informational purposes only. This annex contains explan‐
[Link].3* If concentrations of the two samples collected in atory material, numbered to correspond with the applicable text para‐
accordance with the procedures in [Link].1.2 or [Link].1.3 graphs.
are similar and in compliance with [Link].1, then (a) the solu‐ A.1.1 NFPA 13D is appropriate for protection against fire
tion drained in accordance with [Link].1.1 can be used to hazards only in one- and two-family dwellings and manufac‐
refill the system, or (b) the existing undrained solution tested tured homes. Residential portions of any other type of building
in accordance with [Link].1.3 shall be permitted to continue or occupancy should be protected with residential sprinklers in
to be used. accordance with NFPA 13 or in accordance with NFPA 13R.
[Link].3.1 If the two samples are not similar and not in Other portions of such buildings should be protected in
compliance with [Link].1, then a solution in compliance with accordance with NFPA 13 or NFPA 13R as appropriate for areas
[Link].1 shall be used to refill the system.
[Link].4 Tag.
outside the dwelling unit.
The criteria in this standard are based on full-scale fire tests
of rooms containing typical furnishings found in residential
L Y
[Link].4.1 A tag shall be attached to the riser indicating the
date the antifreeze solution was tested.
[Link].4.2 The tag shall also indicate the type and concentra‐
tion of antifreeze solution (by volume) with which the system is
O N
living rooms, kitchens, and bedrooms. The furnishings were
arranged as typically found in dwelling units in a manner simi‐
lar to that shown in Figure A.1.1(a), Figure A.1.1(b), and
Figure A.1.1(c). Sixty full-scale fire tests were conducted in a
two-story dwelling in Los Angeles, California, and 16 tests were

E
filled, the date the antifreeze was replaced (if applicable), the
name of the contractor that tested and/or replaced the anti‐ conducted in a 14 ft (4.2 m) wide mobile home in Charlotte,
North Carolina.
freeze solution, the contractor’s license number, a statement
indicating if the entire system was drained and replaced with
antifreeze, and a warning to test the concentration of the anti‐
freeze solutions at yearly intervals per NFPA 13D.
U S
Sprinkler systems designed and installed according to this
standard are expected to prevent flashover within the compart‐
ment of origin where sprinklers are installed in the compart‐
N 12.3.6 Inactive Systems.
N [Link]* In a detached dwelling or a manufactured home the
sprinkler system shall be permitted to be put in an inactive
A L
ment. A sprinkler system designed and installed according to
this standard cannot, however, be expected to completely
control a fire involving fuel loads that are significantly higher
than average for dwelling units [10 lb/ft2 (49 kg/m2)] and
state for any of the following reasons:
(1) After a manufactured home has been installed and tested
{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717} D U where the interior finish exhibits either a high flame spread
index (greater than 200, corresponding to a Class C) when
tested in accordance with ASTM E84, Standard Test Method for

I
in the factory and is being prepared for shipment
(2) When a manufactured home is being stored for future Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials, or ANSI/
UL 723, Standard for Test for Surface Burning Characteristics of
(3)
occupancy

I V
When the detached dwelling is unoccupied during reno‐
vation work, with notification and approval of the AHJ
Building Materials, or a high heat release (such as a heat release
rate exceeding 800 kW) when tested in accordance with

D
(4) When the detached dwelling is unoccupied for an exten‐ NFPA 286.
ded period of time, with notification and approval of the (For protection of multifamily dwellings, see NFPA 13 or

IN
AHJ NFPA 13R.)
N [Link] Where a wet pipe system is installed and the piping A.1.2 While the purpose of this standard is to provide
will be subject to freezing, the piping and the stored water improved protection against injury and loss of life, the use of

O R
supply shall be drained.
N [Link].1* Where residential pendent and sidewall sprinklers
are installed on drops that are 4 in. (100 mm) or less in length,
these systems has demonstrated an ability to provide improved
protection against property damage. Various levels of fire safety
are available to dwelling occupants to provide life safety and
property protection.

F the drops shall not be required to be drained.

N [Link] The systems shall be placed back in service prior to
occupancy.
N [Link] Prior to the system being restored to service, the
This standard recommends, but does not require, sprinkler‐
ing of all areas in a dwelling; it permits sprinklers to be omitted
in certain areas. These areas have been proved by NFPA statis‐
tics [see Table A.1.2(a), Table A.1.2(b), and Table A.1.2(c)] to be
system shall be filled with water, pressurized to normal system those where the incidence of life loss from fires in dwellings is
pressure, and visually inspected for leaks. low. Such an approach provides a reasonable degree of fire
safety. Greater protection to both life and property is achieved
N [Link] Once the system has been restored to service, it shall by sprinklering all areas.
be inspected and tested in accordance with Section 12.2.
Guidance for the installation of smoke detectors and fire
detection systems is found in NFPA 72.
A.1.5.1 For additional conversions and information, see
IEEE/ASTM SI 10, Standard for Use of the International System of
Units (SI): The Modern Metric System.

Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material. 2019 Edition
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

13D-36 INSTALLATION OF SPRINKLER SYSTEMS IN ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS AND MANUFACTURED HOMES

147 in. (3675 mm)

34¹⁄₂ in. (860 mm)
90 in. (2250 mm)
20 in. (500 mm)
Curtains over window
CW D 1 in.
50 in. (25 mm)
(1250 mm) 55 in.
N C
66¹⁄₂ in. (1375 mm)
(1660 mm)
1 in.
(25 mm)
CH
N,L
Observation window 72 in. 20 in. 144 in. (3600 mm)

71 in.
(1800 mm) (500 mm)

L Y
N
(1775 mm) Headboard
54 in.
(1350 mm) B 57 in. × 7¹⁄₂ in.
(1425 mm × 190 mm)

Door
(closed) 6¹⁄₂ in. (160 mm) O
16 in. 30 in.
(400 mm) (750 mm)

S E
Ignition
Sprinkler
CW Curtains
D Dresser
CH Chest
C Chair
B
N
L
Bed
Nightstand
Lamp

L U
Δ FIGURE A.1.1(a) Bedroom.

22¹⁄₂ in.
U A
34¹⁄₂ in.
(560 mm)
{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
N

I D
147 in. (3675 mm)
(860 mm)

V
90 in. (2250 mm)

20 in.
(500 mm)
CW

D I Window (closed)

D D
3 in. (75 mm)

IN
51 in. (1275 mm) C 8 in. 13 in.
(200 mm) (325 mm)
1 in.
(25 mm) 72 in.

R
(1800 mm) 105¹⁄₂ in. (2640 mm)
Observation

O
window

42 in. (1050 mm) 52³⁄₄ in.

F
(1320 mm) 6 in. B
(150 mm)
Door
(closed)

16 in. 30 in. 20 in.

(400 mm) (750 mm) (500 mm)

Ignition D Dresser
Sprinkler C Chair
CW Curtains B Bed

Δ FIGURE A.1.1(b) Manufactured Home Bedroom.

2019 Edition Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material.
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

ANNEX A 13D-37

8 in. 6 in. (150 mm) A.1.5.4 A given equivalent value is considered to be approxi‐
(200 mm) mate.
A.3.2.1 Approved. The National Fire Protection Association
34¹⁄₂ in. 33¹⁄₂ in.
1 in. (25 mm) does not approve, inspect, or certify any installations, proce‐
L
(860 mm) E (840 mm) dures, equipment, or materials; nor does it approve or evaluate
S
testing laboratories. In determining the acceptability of installa‐
tions, procedures, equipment, or materials, the authority
CW 54 in.
having jurisdiction may base acceptance on compliance with
72 in. (1800 mm) NFPA or other appropriate standards. In the absence of such
(1350 mm)
C standards, said authority may require evidence of proper instal‐
lation, procedure, or use. The authority having jurisdiction
may also refer to the listings or labeling practices of an organi‐

Y
70 in. zation that is concerned with product evaluations and is thus in
90 in. (1750 mm) a position to determine compliance with appropriate standards

L
(2250 mm)
for the current production of listed items.

N
Window area A.3.2.2 Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). The phrase
“authority having jurisdiction,” or its acronym AHJ, is used in

O
NFPA documents in a broad manner, since jurisdictions and
approval agencies vary, as do their responsibilities. Where
CW
public safety is primary, the authority having jurisdiction may
22¹⁄₂ in.
(560 mm)

S E
be a federal, state, local, or other regional department or indi‐
vidual such as a fire chief; fire marshal; chief of a fire preven‐
tion bureau, labor department, or health department; building
official; electrical inspector; or others having statutory author‐

U
S Sofa C Chair
ity. For insurance purposes, an insurance inspection depart‐
E End table CW Curtains ment, rating bureau, or other insurance company
N

L
representative may be the authority having jurisdiction. In
L Lamp Sprinkler
many circumstances, the property owner or his or her designa‐
Δ FIGURE A.1.1(c)

A
Living Room. ted agent assumes the role of the authority having jurisdiction;
at government installations, the commanding officer or depart‐

{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717} D U mental official may be the authority having jurisdiction.

I
Table A.1.2(a) Fires and Associated Deaths and Injuries in Dwellings, Duplexes, and Manufactured Homes by Area of Origin: Annual
Average of 2005–2009 Structure Fires Reported to U.S. Fire Departments

V
Living room, family room, or den
D I
Area of Origin
Civilian
Deaths
540
Civilian
Percent
24
Fires
11,300
Percent
4
Injuries
990
Percent
11

IN
Bedroom 540 24 22,300 8 1,810 20
Kitchen 310 14 85,600 32 2,870 32
Unclassified function area 240 11 7,900 3 480 5

O R
Unclassified structural area
Crawl space or substructure space
Unclassified area of origin
Laundry room or area
80
50
40
40
4
2
2
2
5,200
5,000
6,500
8,900
2
2
2
3
150
190
70
280
2
2
1
3

F Garage or vehicle storage area*

Bathroom
Exterior balcony or unenclosed porch
Wall assembly or concealed space
30
30
30
30
1
1
1
1
8,600
5,500
4,600
6,400
3
2
2
2
420
200
140
110
5
2
2
1
Attic or ceiling/roof assembly or concealed space 30 1 9,000 3 90 1
Heating equipment room 20 1 6,000 2 140 2
Unclassified outside area 10 0 6,600 2 50 1
Exterior wall surface 10 0 8,500 3 90 1
Confined chimney or flue fire† 0 0 22,500 8 30 0
Other known area of origin 200 9 34,100 13 740 8
Total 2,210 100 264,500 100 8,860 100
Source: NFIRS 5.0 and NFPA survey.
Note: Sums may not equal totals due to rounding errors.
*Does not include fires with property use coded as residential garage.
†
NFIRS 5.0 does not have a separate area of origin code for fires starting in chimneys. Any home fire with NFIRS incident type 114 (Chimney of fire
originating in and confined to a chimney or flue) is captured here.

Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material. 2019 Edition
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

13D-38 INSTALLATION OF SPRINKLER SYSTEMS IN ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS AND MANUFACTURED HOMES

Table A.1.2(b) Fires and Associated Deaths and Injuries in Dwellings, Duplexes, and Manufactured Homes by Heat Source: Annual
Average of 2005–2009 Structure Fires Reported to U.S. Fire Departments

Civilian Civilian
Heat Source Deaths Percent Fires Percent Injuries Percent
Smoking materials 510 23 11,600 4 760 9
Radiated or conducted heat from operating equipment 290 13 46,000 17 1,920 22
Arcing 290 13 29,900 11 850 10
Unclassified heat source 160 7 22,900 9 500 6
Unclassified heat from powered equipment 160 7 39,900 15 1,290 15
Spark, ember, or flame from operating equipment 140 6 16,900 6 620 7
Lighter 130 6 7,300 3 590 7
Candle
Unclassified hot or smoldering object
Hot ember or ash
110
100
100
5
4
4
10,000
18,600
21,200
4
7
8
740
450
340
L Y 8
5
4
Match
Heat from direct flame or convection current
Lightning
Other known heat source
Total fires
80
10
10
130
2,210
4
1
0
6
100
9,000
5,900
4,100
21,200
264,500
3
2
2
8
100 O N 240
90
30
440
8,860
3
1
0
5
100
Source: NFIRS 5.0 and NFPA survey.
Note: Sums may not equal totals due to rounding errors.

S E
Annual Average of 2005–2009 Structure Fires Reported to U.S. Fire Departments

L U
Table A.1.2(c) Fires and Associated Deaths and Injuries in Dwellings, Duplexes, and Manufactured Homes by Item First Ignited:

A
Civilian Civilian
Item First Ignited Deaths Percent Fires Percent Injuries Percent
Upholstered furniture
Mattress or bedding
420
280
U 19
13
5,400
8,000
2
3
560
910
6
10

{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
ID
Flammable or combustible liquid or gas or
associated part 200 9 13,200 5 880 10
Structural member or framing
Floor covering rug, carpet, or mat
Unclassified furniture or utensil
I V 120
110
110
6
5
5
18,500
4,500
5,000
7
2
2
330
200
300
4
2
3
Clothing
Electrical wire or cable insulation
D 110
90
5
4
6,200
15,200
2
6
390
360
4
4

IN
Cooking materials, including food 90 4 53,300 20 2,000 23
Multiple items first ignited 80 4 4,900 2 210 2
Unclassified item first ignited 80 4 23,600 9 340 4

O R
Interior wall covering
Unclassified structural component or finish
Magazine, newspaper, or writing paper
Rubbish, trash, or waste
70
60
50
40
3
3
2
2
7,100
6,600
4,100
9,100
3
2
2
3
220
140
140
180
3
2
2
2

F
Cabinetry
Appliance housing or casing
Exterior wall covering or finish
Household utensil
40
30
30
10
2
2
1
1
4,600
8,700
12,000
5,700
2
3
5
2
210
200
140
130
2
2
2
1
Insulation within structural area 10 0 5,500 2 80 1
Unclassified organic material 0 0 6,300 2 40 0
Film or residue, including paint, resin, and
creosote 0 0 4,400 2 10 0
Other known item first ignited 160 7 32,500 12 890 10
Total 2,210 100 264,500 100 8,860 100
Source: NFIRS 5.0 and NFPA survey.
Note: Sums may not equal totals due to rounding errors.

2019 Edition Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material.
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

ANNEX A 13D-39

A.3.2.4 Listed. The means for identifying listed equipment

may vary for each organization concerned with product evalua‐
tion; some organizations do not recognize equipment as listed
unless it is also labeled. The authority having jurisdiction
should utilize the system employed by the listing organization
to identify a listed product.
N A.3.3.1 Bathroom. A room is still considered a bathroom if it
contains just a toilet. Additionally, two bathrooms that are adja‐ Manifold
cent to each other are considered separate rooms or compart‐
ments.
A.3.3.6 Manufactured Home. Manufactured homes were
formerly referred to as “mobile homes” or “trailer coaches.”
A.3.3.7 Premixed Antifreeze Solution. Where a tank is used as
the water supply for the sprinkler system, the tank is not
permitted to be filled with antifreeze.
L Y
Water
meter

A.3.3.10 Shadow Area. Water is not required to fall on every

square inch of floor space of the occupancy. This definition
establishes a term that will be used to address the rules for
acceptable dry spaces that occur when walls interfere with the O N
sprinkler’s spray pattern. Angled walls, wing walls, and slightly
indented walls can disrupt water discharging from a sprinkler,
which does not travel only in an absolute straight line, as if it
were beams of light. Where small (typically triangular) shad‐
FIGURE A.[Link](a)
System) — Example 1.

S E Multipurpose Piping System (Tree

owed areas are formed on the floor adjacent to the wall, these
shadowed areas are purely on paper and do not take into
account the dynamic variables of sprinkler discharge. In order
to be acceptable, the shadow area needs to be within the cover‐
L U
A.[Link] Passive Purge Sprinkler System. The domestic
plumbing fixture should be on a remote portion of the system
or the system should be designed as a loop so that water moves
through a majority of the system when the fixture is used. This
age area of a sprinkler, meaning that water would discharge to
the space directly if the structural or architectural feature was
not there. The purpose of the shadow area is not to replace any
existing obstruction requirements. Instead the shadow area
U A type of system is also called a “flow through system” in much of
North America.
A.[Link] Stand-Alone Sprinkler System. Underground
concept has been added to the standard to provide clarity to
{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
I D
specific situations in which walls form non-rectangular-shaped
piping is permitted to serve domestic use as well as sprinkler
system use, but once the split is made between systems, the
piping serving fire sprinklers only serves the fire sprinklers.

V
rooms as shown in Figure A.3.3.10.

I
A.[Link] Multipurpose Piping Sprinkler System. Examples
of multipurpose piping systems are shown in Figure

D
A.[Link](a), Figure A.[Link](b), and Figure A.[Link](c).
A.[Link] Control Valve. System control valves should be of
the indicating type, such as plug valves, ball valves, butterfly
valves, or OS&Y gate valves.

IN
A.[Link] Network Sprinkler System. A network system is a
type of multipurpose system that often uses 1∕2 in. (15 mm)
piping to serve both domestic and fire protection needs,

R
providing an equivalent level of suppression capability as larger
piping systems. To accomplish this protection, each sprinkler is
supplied by water flowing to it from at least three separate

F O
paths. An example of a network system is shown in Figure
A.[Link](c).
Manifold

Water
meter

Shadow area

FIGURE A.[Link](b) Multipurpose Piping System (Looped

FIGURE A.3.3.10 Shadow Area Created by a Wall. System) — Example 2.

Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material. 2019 Edition
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

13D-40 INSTALLATION OF SPRINKLER SYSTEMS IN ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS AND MANUFACTURED HOMES

Δ Table A.5.2.2(a) SDR 13.5 IPS Pipe (CPVC)

Nominal Pipe Average Outside Average Inside

Size Diameter Diameter
(in.) (mm) (in.) (mm) (in.) (mm)
∕4
3
(20) 1.05 (26.7) 0.87 (22.1)
1 (25) 1.32 (33.5) 1.10 (27.9)
Manifold
11∕4 (32) 1.66 (42.2) 1.39 (35.3)
11∕2 (40) 1.90 (48.3) 1.60 (40.6)
2 (50) 2.38 (60.5) 2.00 (50.8)
21∕2 (65) 2.88 (73.2) 2.42 (61.5)

Y
3 (80) 3.50 (88.9) 2.95 (74.9)

Water
meter

N L
O
(SDR-PR), as described in [Link] is listed for fire sprinkler serv‐
ice. Listed pipe is identified by the logo of the listing agency.

E
All nonmetallic pipe and fitting materials can be damaged
FIGURE A.[Link](c) Multipurpose Piping System — by contact with chemicals found in some construction prod‐
Example 3 (Network System).

A.4.4 A scaled drawing where required should show the

following:
U S
ucts, such as thread sealants, leak detectors, firestops, insula‐
tion, spray foams, cutting oils, termiticides, insecticides,
antifreeze, coupling lubes, communication cables, wires, flux,
solder, mastic, PVC-coated floor clamps, pipe tapes, grease and

L
cooking oils, rubber and plasticizers, antimicrobial coatings,
(1) Address (if known) and so forth. The chemical compatibility of such products with

A
(2) Size and type of domestic line, including length to city the particular pipe or fitting material must be verified prior to
connection use. Otherwise, contact between the construction product and

U
(3) Water meter size the pipe or fitting must be avoided.
(4) Current static water pressure
A.[Link] Compatible thread sealant or Teflon tape can be

D
(5) Interior walls
{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
I
(6) Model, manufacturer, temperature, orifice size, and used in a CPVC sprinkler head adapter. The combination of
spacing requirements of sprinklers the two cannot be used together. The manufacturer of the
(7) Type of pipe

I
(8) Hanger spacing requirement per the pipe manufacturer
(9) Riser detail V sprinkler head adapter installation instructions must be
followed for each sprinkler head adapter used. Not all fittings
made to ASTM F437, Standard Specification for Threaded Chlorina‐
(10) Installing contractor information
(11) Preliminary hydraulic calculations
D ted Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC) Plastic Pipe Fittings, Schedule 80;
ASTM F438, Standard Specification for Socket-Type Chlorinated Poly

IN
(Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC) Plastic Pipe Fittings, Schedule 40; and
A.5.1.1 Where fused sprinklers are replaced by the owner, fire ASTM F439, Standard Specification for Socket-Type Chlorinated Poly
department, or others, care should be taken to ensure that the (Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC) Plastic Pipe Fittings, Schedule 80, as de‐
replacement sprinkler has the same operating characteristics.

R
scribed in [Link] are listed for fire sprinkler service. Listed
A.[Link] Where the sprinkler being removed from the system fittings are identified by the logo of the listing agency.

F O
remains attached to the original fitting or welded outlet, the
sprinkler should be permitted to be reinstalled provided care
has been taken to ensure the sprinkler has not been damaged.
Flexible hose connections are considered a fitting.
Δ A.5.2.2 For reference, the information in Table A.5.2.2(a)
A.5.3 It is not the intent of NFPA 13D to require the use of
NFPA 24 for any supply piping.
Δ A.6.2 The connection to city mains for fire protection is often
subject to local regulation of metering and backflow preven‐
tion requirements. Preferred and acceptable water supply
through Table A.5.2.2(d) is provided to assist in the determina‐ arrangements are shown in Figure A.6.2(a) through Figure
tion of acceptable water availability. A.6.2(e). Where it is necessary to use a meter between the city
A.[Link] In most installations, pressure increases due to water main and the sprinkler system supply, an acceptable
temperature fluctuations or pressure surges do not cause the arrangement as shown in Figure A.6.2(c) and Figure A.6.2(d)
system pressure to exceed the pressure rating of the pipe. In can be used. Under these circumstances, the flow characteris‐
situations where the system pressure has the potential to tics of the meter are to be included in the hydraulic calculation
exceed the pipe pressure rating, installation of a relief valve of the system [see Table 10.4.4(a)]. Where a tank is used for both
should be considered. Where a relief valve is installed, consid‐ domestic and fire protection purposes, a low water alarm that
eration should be given to making sure that an adequate drain actuates when the water level falls below 110 percent of the
is available to handle the anticipated discharge. minimum quantity specified in 6.1.2 should be provided.

A.[Link] Not all pipe or tube made to ASTM F442, Standard The effect of pressure-reducing valves on the system should
Specification for Chlorinated Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC) Plastic Pipe be considered in the hydraulic calculation procedures.

2019 Edition Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material.
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

ANNEX A 13D-41

Δ Table A.5.2.2(b) SDR 9 CTS Pipe (PEX)

Inside
Nominal Diameter Outside Diameter Wall Diameter
(in.) (mm) in.* mm in.† mm in. mm
3
∕8 (9) 0.50 12.7 0.07 1.8 0.36 9.1
1
∕2 (15) 0.63 15.9 0.07 1.8 0.49 12.3
3
∕4 (20) 0.88 22.2 0.10 2.5 0.68 17.2
1 (25) 1.30 32.5 0.13 3.2 0.88 22.2

Y
1 ∕41
(32) 1.38 34.5 0.15 3.9 1.07 27.2

L
1 ∕21
(40) 1.63 41.2 0.18 4.6 1.26 32.1
2 (50) 2.13 54.0 0.24 6.0 1.65 42.0
*Average dimensions from ASTM F876, Standard Specification for Crosslinked Polyethylene (PEX) Tubing.
†Minimum wall thickness from ASTM F876.

O N
Δ Table A.5.2.2(c) Steel Pipe Dimensions
S E
Nominal Pipe
Size
Outside
Diameter
Inside
Schedule 5

Diameter
Wall
Thickness
Inside
Schedule 10*

Diameter
Wall

L U
Thickness
Inside
Diameter
Schedule 30
Wall
Thickness
Inside
Diameter
Schedule 40
Wall
Thickness
in.
½†
¾†
15
20
mm in.
0.84 21.3
1.05 26.7
mm
—
—
—
—
in.
—
—
mm
—
—
in. mm
0.67 17.0 0.08
0.88 22.4 0.08
in.

U
2.1
2.1
A
mm
—
—
in.
—
—
mm
—
—
in.
—
—
mm
0.62 15.8
0.82 21.0
in. mm in. mm in.
0.11
0.11
mm
2.77
2.87

D
1 25 1.32 33.4 1.19 30.1 0.07 1.7 1.10 27.9 0.11 2.8 — — — — 1.05 26.6 0.13 3.37
{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
11∕4
11∕2
2
32
40
50
1.66 42.2 1.53 38.9 0.07
1.90 48.3 1.77 45.0 0.07
2.38 60.3 2.25 57.0 0.07
1.7
1.7
1.7

V I1.44 36.6 0.11

1.68 42.7 0.11
2.16 54.8 0.11
2.8
2.8
2.8
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
1.38 35.1
1.61 40.9
2.07 52.5
0.14
0.15
0.15
3.56
3.68
3.91
21∕2
3
65
80
2.88 73.0 2.71 68.8 0.08
3.50 88.9 3.33 84.7 0.08

D I 2.1
2.1
2.64 66.9 0.12
3.26 82.8 0.12
3.0
3.0
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2.47 62.7
3.07 77.9
* Schedule 10 defined to 5 in. (127 mm) nominal pipe size by ASTM A135, Standard Specification for Electric-Resistance-Welded Steel Pipe.
† These values applicable when used in conjunction with [Link] and [Link] of NFPA 13.
0.20
0.22
5.16
5.49

IN
[13:Table A.6.3.2]

O R
F
Δ Table A.5.2.2(d) Copper Tube Dimensions

Nominal Tube Outside

Type K
Inside
Type L
Wall Inside
Type M
Wall
Size Diameter Inside Diameter Wall Thickness Diameter Thickness Diameter Thickness
in. mm in. mm in. mm in. mm in. mm in. mm in. mm in. mm
∕4
3
20 0.88 22.2 0.75 18.9 0.07 1.7 0.79 19.9 0.05 1.1 0.81 20.6 0.03 0.8
1 25 1.13 28.6 1.00 25.3 0.07 1.7 1.03 26.0 0.05 1.3 1.06 26.8 0.04 0.9
11∕4 32 1.38 34.9 1.25 31.6 0.07 1.7 1.27 32.1 0.06 1.4 1.29 32.8 0.04 1.1
11∕2 40 1.63 41.3 1.48 37.6 0.07 1.8 1.51 38.2 0.06 1.5 1.53 38.8 0.05 1.2
2 50 2.13 54.0 1.96 49.8 0.08 2.1 1.99 50.4 0.07 1.8 2.01 51.0 0.06 1.5
21∕2 65 2.63 66.7 2.44 61.8 0.10 2.4 2.47 62.6 0.08 2.0 2.50 63.4 0.07 1.7
3 80 3.13 79.4 2.91 73.8 0.11 2.8 2.95 74.8 0.09 2.3 2.98 75.7 0.07 1.8
[13:Table A.6.3.5]

Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material. 2019 Edition
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

13D-42 INSTALLATION OF SPRINKLER SYSTEMS IN ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS AND MANUFACTURED HOMES

Figure A.6.2(a), Figure A.6.2(c), or Figure A.6.2(d) are City water main
acceptable methods for getting the water supply into the unit
for a stand-alone sprinkler system (one that does not also Corporation stop (if required)
provide direct connections to the cold water fixtures) because
the common supply pipe for the domestic system and the sprin‐
kler system between the water supply and the dwelling unit has Curb stop or To domestic
system
a single control valve that shuts the sprinkler system, which shutoff valve
helps to ensure that people who have running water to their (lockable)
domestic fixtures also have fire protection. This serves as a Water meter
form of supervision for the control valve and can be used to Domestic system
Check valve or shutoff
make sure that the valve stays open in place of other, more backflow prevention valve (lockable)
expensive options such as tamper switches with a monitoring device (if required)
Waterflow detector
service.

Y
(if required)
Some water utilities choose to install separate taps and Drain and test

L
connection Pressure gauge
supply pipes from the water supply to the dwelling unit for fire (alt. locations if
sprinkler systems as shown in Figure A.6.2(d), due to the pref‐ required)
erence to not shut off water to piping that includes fire supply
as well as domestic water supply. While these types of arrange‐
ments are acceptable, they might not be cost efficient and
should be evaluated due to the extra cost burden this places on
the building owner.
To automatic
sprinkler
system
O N
Single services should be acceptable as NFPA 13D is a life
safety standard. This means that the purpose of the standard is
to protect human life and not to necessarily protect property.
Piping Systems — Option 1.

S E
Δ FIGURE A.6.2(b) Acceptable Arrangement for Stand-Alone

In the event that the domestic water supply is shut off, plumb‐
ing code dictates that the home is uninhabitable and thus
should be vacated. If there are no occupants within the home
then there are no life safety concerns.
L U
Additionally, having a single service connection provides
some assurance that the water supply to the sprinkler system is
operational.
U A City water main

{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
City water main

I D Corporation stop
(if required)

I V To Lockable meter
stop (public)

D
domestic Waterflow detector (if required)
system Pressure gauge Water meter
Curb stop or

IN
shutoff valve (alt. locations if required) Main control
(lockable) valve (private)
Domestic system To automatic To domestic
Water shutoff valve sprinkler system

R
meter (lockable) system
Drain
connection Domestic

F O To automatic
sprinkler
system
Drain and test
connection

*Optional valve: See 7.1.4.

Check valve or, if
required, cross
connection control
device
system
shutoff
valve

Δ FIGURE A.6.2(a) Minimum Requirements for a Stand-Alone Δ FIGURE A.6.2(c) Acceptable Arrangement for Stand-Alone
System. Piping System — Option 2.

2019 Edition Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material.
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

ANNEX A 13D-43

City water main

Corporation Corporation
stop (if required) stop
(if required)

Fire sprinkler Meter stop

shutoff valve (public)
Check valve (supervised or
or backflow lockable)* Water
prevention meter
device
(if required)
Waterflow detector Domestic
(if required) system
shutoff
Drain and test
connection
Pressure gauge
(alt. locations if
required)
valve

L Y
N
To domestic
To automatic system
sprinkler system

*Optional valve: See 7.1.4.

O
Δ FIGURE A.6.2(d) Acceptable Arrangement for Stand-Alone
Piping Systems — Option 3.

S E
U
City water main

Check valve

L
Corporation stop (if required)
or backflow Feed main to sprinkler systems can be installed
prevention at the exterior or within the building.

A
device
(if required) Meter (if required)

Fire sprinkler
shutoff valve

{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
(if provided)

D U
Number of townhouse units will vary.

Check valve
(if provided)

V I
Waterflow
detector
(if required)
Drain and test
D I
IN
connection

O R To automatic
sprinkler
system
Pressure gauge
(alt. locations if
required)

F
N FIGURE A.6.2(e) Acceptable Arrangement for Townhouse Stand-Alone Piping Systems.

A.6.2.3 In a situation where a two-family dwelling or town‐

house has a common water supply, there must be a way to
source among other things, the well pump can be upsized to
accommodate the sprinkler demand at considerably less cost.
isolate the sprinkler system in one unit without having to enter
another unit. Where each unit has its own shutoff valve and A.6.3 Multipurpose piping systems consist of a single piping
one unit suffers a fire event and cannot be occupied, the system within a residential occupancy that is intended to serve
damaged unit can be isolated and other units can remain occu‐ both domestic and fire protection needs. Basic forms of this
pied because they have functioning sprinkler systems. system are shown in Figure A.6.3(a), Figure A.6.3(b), Figure
A.6.3(c), and Figure A.6.3(d). A network system, as defined in
N A.[Link] Well pumps are an economical way to provide a [Link], is a type of multipurpose system that utilizes a
water supply source in rural areas without a municipal water common piping system supplying domestic fixtures and fire
supply. Rather than having a pump and tank assembly as de‐ sprinklers where each sprinkler is supplied by a minimum of
scribed in 6.2.1 and 6.2.2, which typically takes up floor space three separate paths. In dwellings where long-term use of lawn
in the dwelling or home and requires a separate ac power sprinklers is common, provision should be made for such
usage.

Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material. 2019 Edition
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

13D-44 INSTALLATION OF SPRINKLER SYSTEMS IN ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS AND MANUFACTURED HOMES

Manifold

Water
meter
L Y
O N
Δ FIGURE A.6.3(a) Multipurpose Piping System (Tree System) — Example 1.

S E
L U
U A
{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
I D
Manifold Manifold

I V
D
IN
Water Water
meter meter

O R
F
Δ FIGURE A.6.3(b) Multipurpose Piping System (Looped
System) — Example 2.
Δ FIGURE A.6.3(c) Multipurpose Piping System — Example 3
(Network System).

2019 Edition Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material.
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

ANNEX A 13D-45

To dwelling unit To dwelling unit

number one number two
Ceiling
area

Sprinkler
Common sprinkler/plumbing
connection: Add plumbing
demand of 5 gpm (19 L/min)
to sprinkler demand to
determine pipe size
36 in.
(900 m

Y
m
cleara )
nce
36 in.

L
Water service pipe (900 m
m
cleara )
nce

Public main
Note: Sprinklers must
be located outside of
shaded area.
60 in.
(1500 mm)
clearance

O N
FIGURE A.6.3(d) Common Water Supply Connection Serv‐
ing More Than One Dwelling Unit.
N A.7.2.1 In the case of a multipurpose system, a plumbing E
Δ FIGURE A.[Link](3)(a) Recessed Fireplace — Ordinary
Temperature Sprinkler Location.

S
U
fixture on the system side of the main control valve can meet
the requirement for a drain.
A.7.2.4 These connections should be installed so that the valve
can be opened fully and for a sufficient time period to ensure a
proper test without causing water damage. The test connection
should be designed and sized to verify the sufficiency of the
A L Ceiling
area

U
Sprinkler
water supply and alarm mechanisms.

D
A.7.2.6 Where the pressure-reducing or pressure-regulating
{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
valve also serves the domestic water supply, the domestic
fixtures in the home serve as the connection for which the

V I
device can be tested, but a gauge is still needed downstream to

I
12 in.
verify valve performance and function. (300 m
m
cleara )

D
nce
A.7.4.4 The reaction forces caused by the flow of water 12 in.
(300 m
through the sprinkler could result in displacement of the sprin‐ m
cleara )

IN
kler, thereby adversely affecting sprinkler discharge. nce
• 36 in.
N A.7.4.5 Wood attached or fastened to the structure used as (900 mm)
part of a trapeze hanger is considered an extension of the Note: Sprinklers must clearance

R
be located outside of
structure and is considered acceptable to hang sprinkler shaded area.
piping.

F O
A.7.5.5 Corrosion-resistant sprinklers should be considered
for use in steam rooms.
A.[Link] Care should be taken in positioning sprinklers in
bathrooms near exhaust fan units. Some exhaust fan units have
Δ FIGURE A.[Link](3)(b) Recessed Fireplace — Intermediate
Temperature Sprinkler Location.

building. It can be mounted on the outside of the home or

within the building close to the outside. This should not limit
heaters built in to warm up the bathroom, and these units have
its use to prevent interior or remote notification. Interconnec‐
the potential to activate sprinklers. Combination exhaust fan
tion with a smoke alarm or remote monitoring might improve
and heater units should be treated as wall-mounted diffusers
notification, but is considered too costly to mandate for every
for the purposes of using Table [Link].
system installed in accordance with this standard. It is not the
N A.[Link](3) See Figure A.[Link](3)(a), Figure A.[Link](3) intent of this standard to require central station monitoring or
(b), Figure A.[Link](3)(c), and Figure A.[Link](3)(d). a fire alarm system.
A.7.5.7 Decorative painting of a residential sprinkler is not to An exterior alarm can be of benefit in areas where a neigh‐
be confused with the temperature identification colors as speci‐ bor could alert the fire department or to enhance the ability
fied in 6.2.5 of NFPA 13. for an assisted rescue by a passerby.
A.7.6 The waterflow detection device and the audible alarm A waterflow test is normally conducted using the system
device do not have to be listed. The local waterflow alarm is drain. Figure A.6.2(a), Figure A.6.2(b), and Figure A.6.2(c)
intended to be a single alarm audible from the outside of the show examples of this arrangement.

Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material. 2019 Edition
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

13D-46 INSTALLATION OF SPRINKLER SYSTEMS IN ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS AND MANUFACTURED HOMES

safety while maintaining the philosophy of keeping NFPA 13D

relatively simple to apply and enforce.
Fire testing has indicated the need to wet walls in the area
36 in. 36 in. (900 mm) protected by residential sprinklers at a level closer to the ceil‐
clearance
(900 m
m ing than that accomplished by standard sprinkler distribution.
clearan )
ce Ceiling area Where beams, light fixtures, sloped ceilings, and other obstruc‐
tions occur, additional residential sprinklers are necessary to
achieve proper response and distribution. In addition, for
sloped ceilings, higher flow rates could be needed. Guidance
should be obtained from the manufacturer.
Typical
sprinkler A series of 33 full-scale tests were conducted in a test room
with a floor area of 12 ft × 24 ft (3.7 m × 7.2 m) to determine
the effect of cathedral (sloped) and beamed ceiling construc‐
tion, and combinations of both, on fast-response residential
sprinkler performance. The testing was performed using one
L Y
N
pendent-type residential sprinkler model, two ceiling slopes (0
degrees and 14 degrees), and two beam configurations on a
single enclosure size. In order to judge the effectiveness of

O
Note: Sprinklers must
be located outside of
shaded area.
sprinklers in controlling fires, two baseline tests, in which the
ceiling was smooth and horizontal, were conducted with the
FIGURE A.[Link](3)(c) Open Fireplace — Ordinary
Temperature Sprinkler Location.

S E
pendent sprinklers installed and with a total water supply of
26 gpm (100 L/min) as required by this standard. The results
of the baseline tests were compared with tests in which the ceil‐
ing was beamed or sloped, or both, and two pendent sprinklers

L U
were installed with the same water supply. Under the limited
conditions used for testing, the comparison indicates that
sloped or beamed ceilings, or a combination of both, represent
a serious challenge to the fire protection afforded by fast-

A
12 in. 12 in. (300 mm)
(300 m clearance response residential sprinklers. However, further tests with
m
clearan ) beamed ceilings indicated that fire control equivalent to that

U
ce Ceiling area
obtained in the baseline tests can be obtained where one sprin‐
kler is centered in each bay formed by the beams and a total

{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
I D water supply of 36 gpm (135 L/min) is available. Fire control
equivalent to that obtained in the baseline tests was obtained
for the smooth, sloped ceiling tests where three sprinklers were

V
Typical

I
sprinkler installed with a total water supply of 54 gpm (205 L/min). In a
single smoldering-started fire test, the fire was suppressed.

D Where obstruction criteria established by this standard are

followed, sprinkler spray patterns will not necessarily get water

IN
to every square foot of space within a room. As such, a sprin‐
kler in a room with acceptable obstructions as outlined in this
Note: Sprinklers must standard might not be capable of passing the fire test (specified

R
be located outside of by ANSI/UL 1626, Residential Sprinklers for Fire-Protection Service,
shaded area. and other similar laboratory standards) if the fire is started in

O
one of these dry areas. This occurrence is not to be interpreted
FIGURE A.[Link](3)(d) Open Fireplace — Intermediate as a failure of the sprinkler. The laboratory fire tests are suffi‐
Temperature Sprinkler Location.

F
A.[Link].2 See A.10.2.4.
For situations not meeting the conditions of [Link].1, sprin‐
ciently challenging to the sprinkler without additional obstruc‐
tions as a safety factor to account for the variables that actually
occur in dwellings, including acceptable obstructions to spray
patterns.
The rules on [Link] and [Link] were developed from a test‐
kler coverage should be determined in consultation with the
manufacturer and the authority having jurisdiction as appropri‐ ing series conducted by the National Fire Sprinkler Association
ate for the conditions. and The Viking Corporation that included fire modeling,
sprinkler response tests, sprinkler distribution tests, and full-
N A.[Link] Concealed sprinklers should not be considered scale fire tests (Valentine and Isman, Interaction of Residential
flush-type sprinklers. Sprinklers, Ceiling Fans and Similar Obstructions). This test series,
A.8.2.5 The objective is to position sprinklers so that the along with additional industry experience, shows that a differ‐
response time and discharge are not unduly affected by ence exists between obstructions that are tight to the ceiling
obstructions such as ceiling slope, beams, light fixtures, or ceil‐ and obstructions that hang down from the ceiling, allowing
ing fans. The rules in this section, while different from the spray over the top. Residential sprinklers require high wall
obstruction rules of NFPA 13, provide a reasonable level of life wetting, which means that they tend to spray over obstructions
that hang down from the ceiling. The test series showed that

2019 Edition Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material.
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

ANNEX A 13D-47

the fan blades were not significant obstructions and that as

long as the sprinkler was far enough from the fan motor hous‐
ing (measured from the center of the housing), the sprinkler
could control a fire on the other side of the fan in a small
room. In larger rooms, the sprinkler will need to be augmented Protection area of sprinkler
by additional sprinklers on the other side of the fan. The test Shadow area
series showed that the fan on low or medium speed did not
make a significant difference in sprinkler performance. On
high speed (pushing air down), the fan did impact sprinkler
performance, but fire control was still achieved in small rooms. Pendent or upright sprinkler
In larger rooms, it is expected that additional sprinklers would
be installed. The test series also showed that the fan blowing
down was more significant than the fan pulling air up.
The rules in [Link] were developed from years of experience
with obstruction rules and an additional test series conducted
by the National Fire Sprinkler Association with the help of Tyco
L Y
International (Valentine and Isman, Kitchen Cabinets and Resi‐
dential Sprinklers), which included fire modeling, distribution
tests, and full-scale fire tests. The test series showed that pen‐
dent sprinklers definitely provide protection for kitchens, even
for fires that start under the cabinets. The information in the O N
series was less than definitive for sidewall sprinklers, but distri‐
bution data show that sprinklers in the positions in this stand‐
ard provide adequate water distribution in front of the cabinets
and that sidewall sprinklers should be able to control a fire that FIGURE A.[Link](a)
S E Example of Shadow Areas (SSU/SSP).
starts under the cabinets. When protecting kitchens or similar
rooms with cabinets, the pendent sprinkler should be the first
option. If pendent sprinklers cannot be installed, the next best
option is a sidewall sprinkler on the opposite wall from the
L U
cabinets, spraying in the direction of the cabinets. The third
best option is the sidewall sprinkler on the same wall as the
cabinets on a soffit flush with the face of the cabinet. The last
option should be putting sprinklers on the wall back behind
U A Protection area
of sprinkler

{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
I D
the face of the cabinet because this location is subject to being
blocked by items placed on top of the cabinets. It is not the

under kitchen cabinets.

I V
intent of the committee to require sprinklers to be installed

D
A.[Link] Corridors being protected with sidewall sprinklers
frequently have small areas behind the sprinklers called shadow

IN
areas that are inset for a doorway. Even though these shadow Shadow area
areas are slightly behind the sprinklers, it is not the intent of
NFPA 13D to require additional sprinkler protection in these
doorways. Sidewall sprinkler

R
Examples of shadow areas are provided in Figure

O
A.[Link](a) and Figure A.[Link](b). The obstruction shown in
Figure A.[Link](a) is a vertical obstruction in a room similar to
FIGURE A.[Link](b) Example of Shadow Areas (HSW).

F a column. Sprinkler response and water distribution tests have

been conducted on such obstructions and the data shows that
the size of the obstruction as well as the size of the compart‐
ment are critical variables to sprinkler response. A larger
shadow area can be acceptable in a smaller compartment. The
length of the barrel of the dry sprinkler must be longer than
the values shown in Table [Link](a) and Table [Link](b)
because the length shown in the tables is the minimum length
obstruction shown in Figure A.[Link](b) is a bump out of a of the barrel that needs to be exposed to the warmer ambient
wall. Sprinkler response and water distribution tests have temperature in the heated space. See Figure A.8.2.6(a) for an
shown that this type of obstruction is not a problem. example of where to measure the exposed barrel length for a
sidewall sprinkler penetrating an exterior wall and Figure
A.8.2.6 Dry sprinklers must be of sufficient length to avoid
A.8.2.6(b) for an example of where to measure the exposed
freezing of the water-filled pipes due to conduction along the
barrel length for a pendent sprinkler penetrating a ceiling or
barrel. The values of exposed barrel length in Table [Link](a)
top of a freezer. [See Figure A.8.2.6(c).]
and Table [Link](b) have been developed using an assumption
of a properly sealed penetration and an assumed maximum A.8.3.4 Although NFPA 13D does not require garages to be
wind velocity on the exposed sprinkler of 30 mph (48 km/h). sprinklered, some authorities having jurisdiction take it upon
Where higher wind velocity is expected, longer exposed barrel themselves to add this requirement locally. In such circum‐
lengths will help avoid freezing of the wet piping. The total stances, residential or quick-response sprinklers with a two-

Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material. 2019 Edition
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

13D-48 INSTALLATION OF SPRINKLER SYSTEMS IN ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS AND MANUFACTURED HOMES

Insulation A.8.3.7(3) It is common to have combustible crown molding

Face of fitting as decoration.
X
A.9.1.1 In areas subject to freezing, care should be taken in
unheated attic spaces to cover sprinkler piping completely with
insulation. Installation should follow the guidelines of the insu‐
Exterior wall
lation manufacturer. Figure A.9.1.1(a) through A.9.1.1(f) show
Wet sprinkler pipe several methods that can be considered. These are for illustra‐
tive purposes only. Consultation with the general contractor
X = Minimum exposed barrel length and/or owner is recommended to ensure proper methods and
materials are used to make sure 40°F (4°C) will be maintained.
X is measured from the face of the sprinkler fitting
to the inside surface of the exterior wall or insulation — The Fire Protection Research Foundation completed a
whichever is closer to the fitting. research project (“Sprinkler Insulation: A Literature Review,”
FIGURE A.8.2.6(a) Dry Sidewall Sprinkler Through Wall.
July 2011) on the use of insulation to protect sprinkler pipe
from freezing that can be downloaded for free from their
website.
L Y
sprinkler design in the garage with the same piping used in the
rest of the dwelling can be used. It is recognized that residen‐
tial sprinklers have not been tested specifically for fires in
garages, but field experience has shown that the sprinklers
help to alert occupants to the fact that there is a fire, to reduce O N
A.9.1.2(4) Where listed heat tracing is used on CPVC piping,
it should be compatible with the CPVC piping.
A.9.2 Where protection of pipes from freezing is a concern,
options other than antifreeze are available. Such alternatives
the possibility of flashover, and to improve the chances for
occupants to escape.
Residential sprinklers and quick-response sprinklers at
E
include running the piping in warm spaces, tenting insulation
over pipe, dry pipe systems, and preaction systems.

S
A.9.2.1 Antifreeze solutions can be used for maintaining auto‐
0.05 gpm/ft2 (2.04 L/min/m2) densities have not been tested
for use in garages. However, field experience has shown that
they will activate, sound an alarm, and provide water distribu‐
tion that will assist in controlling a fire.
L U
matic sprinkler protection in small, unheated areas. Antifreeze
solutions are recommended only for systems not exceeding
40 gal (150 L).
Because of the cost of refilling the system or replenishing
N A.[Link].2 Where a chimney or flue from fuel-fired equip‐
ment passes through a concealed space, it is not required to
locate a sprinkler in this concealed space.
U A small leaks, small, dry valves should be used where more than
40 gal (150 L) are to be supplied.
Propylene glycol or other suitable material can be used as a
N A.8.3.6 An example of such a space is a mudroom typically
{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
found in colder climates.

I D substitute for priming water to prevent evaporation of the

priming fluid and thus reduce ice formation within the system.

I V A.9.2.2 Listed nonmetallic sprinkler pipe and fittings should

be protected from freezing with an antifreeze solution that is
compatible with the nonmetallic material. Laboratory testing

D shows that glycol-based antifreeze solutions present a chemical

environment detrimental to nonmetallic pipe.
Wet sprinkler pipe

IN A.[Link] Examples of specific areas might include piping

installed in an exterior wall or an unheated concealed space
above a cathedral ceiling that cannot be protected with insula‐

R
X
tion or heat tracing. Premixed solutions of glycerine and
Face of fitting propylene glycol should be used only where other freeze

F O Clearance hole
protection options are not practical. The specific areas protec‐
ted by premixed glycerine and propylene glycol shall be limited
to the greatest extent possible.
Propylene glycol and glycerine antifreeze solutions
discharged from sprinklers have the potential to ignite under
Insulated freezer certain conditions. Research testing has indicated that several
structure
variables can influence the potential for large-scale ignition of
the antifreeze solution discharged from a sprinkler. These vari‐
Dry sprinkler
ables include, but are not limited to, the concentration of anti‐
freeze solution, sprinkler discharge characteristics, the inlet
pressure at the sprinkler, the location of the fire relative to the
X = Minimum exposed barrel length
sprinkler, and the size of the fire at the time of sprinkler
discharge. Research testing also indicates that propylene glycol
X is measured from the face of the sprinkler fitting or glycerine solutions can be used successfully with certain
to the inside surface of the exterior wall or insulation —
whichever is closer to the fitting.
other combinations of these same variables. Given the need for
additional testing to further define acceptable versus unaccept‐
FIGURE A.8.2.6(b) Dry Pendent Sprinkler Through Ceiling able scenarios, the use of propylene glycol and glycerine anti‐
or Top of Freezer. freeze solutions should be considered only when other

2019 Edition Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material.
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

ANNEX A 13D-49

125° 120° 115° 110° 105° 100° 95° 90° 85° 65°
55°
55° 0°−10° HUDSON −10° −5°
−20° BAY
Prin −30°
ce R −40° St. Johns
upe −45° Gander
rt NEWFOUNDLAND
Buchans
Prince
George
IC
Port-aux- NT
Edmonton Basques LA
AT
50°
50° Prince OF
LF
D O −45° Albert GU ENCE
The Pas R
M I N I O AW

Clayoquot
5° 0° Kamloops
Calgary
N O F C A N A D A ST. L

−5°−10°−15° Saskatoon
−30°
Victoria Vancouver −20° −25° −30°
Medicine Hat
−40°
Cranbrook Regina Sydney
20° Nelson Sioux Lookout
−40° Arvida
−35°
Kapuskasing Chatham Charlottetown
Seattle
Winnipeg
−35°
Spokane −35° −30° −25° Amherst
Quebec 45°

Y
Havre Port Arthur Haileybury
45° Williston −20° −20°
Portland −35° Bangor St. John
Helena International Lennoxville Halifax
−25° −20° Montreal

L
30° Bismarck
−30° Falls −15° Sault St. Marie
Fargo Duluth Huntsville Ottawa −10°
25° Billings Montpelier
Marquette Saranac Lake
Baker −25°
−10° −15° –5°

N
Aberdeen Walkerton
−20° Minneapolis −10° Albany 0°
Boise Sheridan Toronto
30° Green Bay
Pocatello Pierre 40°
Ludington Buffalo Hartford
Sioux Falls London

O
Lander Detroit 5°
40°
Sioux City Milwaukee New York
Chicago
35° Reno Salt Lake Cheyenne −15° Des Moines Cleveland Pittsburgh Harrisburg Philadelphia
P A

City Fort
North Platte Moline Wayne

E
Columbus Baltimore
−10° Washington 10°
C I

San Francisco Keokuk Indianapolis

Denver Springfield Cincinnati

S
Fresno Kansas City Richmond
F I C

N
Louisville Charleston Norfolk
Pueblo Topeka St. Louis 35°
30° 15°

E A
35° −5°
Joplin Wytheville
40°

U
Raleigh
Wichita Springfield Knoxville

O C
Grand Canyon Asheville
Los Angeles 30° Santa Fe
Nashville
Oklahoma Chattanooga Wilmington
Amarillo 0° City Fort Smith Memphis
O C

L
Columbia
San Diego Atlanta
Phoenix Little Rock
Birmingham Charleston
E A

5°

I C
A
40° Tucson 30°
30° 30° Dallas Jackson Montgomery
El Paso Savannah
N

20°

N T
Shreveport
10°

U
Mobile Jacksonville
35° 30°
25°

L A
20° 15°
ISOTHERMAL LINES New Orleans 30°

D
Houston

A T
{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
Tampa

I
San Antonio
Compiled from U.S. Department of Commerce
O 35°
Environmental Data Service and Canadian
Atmospheric Environment Service. GULF OF MEXIC 25°
25° 40° Miami

V
KEY:
25°

I
Lowest One-Day Mean Temperatures 45°
Normal Daily Minimum 30°F Temperature
50°
JANUARY Tr. No 69-2990

D
105° 100° 95° 90° 85° 80° 75°

Source: Compiled from United States Weather Bureau records.

IN
For SI units, °C = ⁵⁄₉ (°F –32); 1 mi = 1.6 km.

Δ FIGURE A.8.2.6(c) Isothermal Lines — Lowest One-Day Mean Temperature (°F). [24:Figure A.10.4.2(b)]

O R
sprinkler system design alternatives are not practical. If these
solutions are used, all relevant data and information should be
carefully reviewed and considered in the sprinkler system. The
following is a list of research reports that have been issued by

F the Fire Protection Research Foundation related to the use of

antifreeze in sprinkler systems:
(1) Antifreeze Systems in Home Fire Sprinkler Systems — Literature
Review and Research Plan
(2) Antifreeze Systems in Home Fire Sprinkler Systems — Phase II
Final Report
(3) Antifreeze Solutions Supplied through Spray Sprinklers —
Interim Report
Table A.[Link] provides an overview of the testing. Caution: It is important that the
insulation be installed tight against the
A.[Link].1 The documentation should substantiate that the joists. In unheated areas, any spaces
proposed use of premixed glycerine and propylene glycol anti‐ or voids between the insulation and the
joists causes the water in the fire
freeze solutions is consistent with the FPRF testing for the sprinkler piping to freeze.
specific installation parameters.
FIGURE A.9.1.1(a) Insulation Recommendations —
Arrangement 1.

Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material. 2019 Edition
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

13D-50 INSTALLATION OF SPRINKLER SYSTEMS IN ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS AND MANUFACTURED HOMES

Caution: For areas having temperatures

of 0°F (–18°C) or lower, an additional
batt of insulation covering the joist and
the fire sprinkler piping should be used.
Caution: Care should be taken to avoid
compressing the insulation. This reduces
L Y
N
If this is not done, freeze-ups can occur its R value. To prevent potential freeze-ups
in the sprinkler piping. of the sprinkler piping, the insulation
should be installed tight against the joists.
FIGURE A.9.1.1(b)
Arrangement 2.
Insulation Recommendations —
FIGURE A.9.1.1(d)
O
Insulation Recommendations —

E
Arrangement 4.

U S
A L
{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717} D U
V I
Caution: Boring holes in the joist is one

I
method of locating the fire sprinkler
piping in the ceiling. As an alternative,

D
when temperatures are expected to be
0°F (–18°C) or lower, loose pieces of
insulation should be stuffed in the bored
Caution: Care should be taken to avoid
compressing the insulation. This reduces its

IN
holes around the piping. R value. To prevent potential freeze-ups of
the sprinkler piping, the insulation should
FIGURE A.9.1.1(c) Insulation Recommendations — be installed tight against the joists.
Arrangement 3.

O R
A.[Link] The specific gravity for any liquid can be found by
taking the density of the liquid at a specific temperature and
FIGURE A.9.1.1(e)
Arrangement 5.
Insulation Recommendations —

F
dividing it by the density of water at that same temperature.
The densities of propylene glycol and glycerine can be found
for a wide range of temperatures in Figure A.[Link](a) and
Figure A.[Link](b).
D 
∆L = SV  L − 1
[A.9.2.3.2a]

A.9.2.3 Many antifreeze solutions are heavier than water. At D

the point of contact (interface), provisions are required by  H 
9.2.3 to prevent the diffusion of water into unheated areas.
where:
To avoid leakage, the quality of materials and workmanship ΔL = change in antifreeze solution volume (gal) due to ther‐
should be superior, the threads should be clean and sharp, and mal expansion
the joints should be tight. Only metal-faced valves should be SV = volume (gal) of antifreeze system, not including the
used. expansion chamber
DL = density (g/mL) of antifreeze solution at lowest expected
A.[Link] One formula for sizing the chamber is as follows, temperature [see Figure A.[Link](a) for the density of
although other methods also exist: propylene glycol at a variety of temperatures and Figure
A.[Link](b) for the density of glycerine at a variety of
temperatures]

2019 Edition Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material.
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

ANNEX A 13D-51

This equation is one formulation of the ideal gas law from

Unheated basic chemistry. The amount of air in the expansion chamber
Blown-in attic
insulation space
will not change over time. The pressure, temperature, and
volume of the air at different times will be related in accord‐
ance with this formula:

[A.9.2.3.2c]
V 2 = V 1 − ∆L

The antifreeze in the system is essentially incompressible, so

Tenting material ‘Tent’ space keeping the air volume in the expansion chamber will decrease by an
insulation above piping amount equal to the expansion of the antifreeze.
It is assumed that air is not trapped in the system piping, so
the only air in the system is in the expansion chamber. This
assumption is conservative, since more air is better. In reality,
L Y
FIGURE A.9.1.1(f)
Heated space

Insulation Recommendations —
when needed:

O N
there will be at least some trapped air. However, only the air in
the expansion chamber can be relied upon to be available

E
Arrangement 6. [A.9.2.3.2d]
V EC = V 0

DH = density (g/mL) of antifreeze solution at highest expec‐

U S
At precharge, the chamber will be completely full of air:

L
ted temperature [see Figure A.[Link](a) for the density [A.9.2.3.2e]
of propylene glycol at a variety of temperatures and P1 ⋅ T0 ⋅ P2 ⋅ ∆L ⋅T1

A
V EC =
Figure A.[Link](b) for the density of glycerine at a vari‐ P0 ⋅ T1 ( P2 ⋅ T1 − P1 ⋅ T2 )
ety of temperatures]
This method is based on the following information:
U In cases where the normal static pressure on the sprinkler

ID
system is close to the maximum working pressure, antifreeze
{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717} [A.9.2.3.2b]
systems are not advisable if the connection to the wet pipe
system will incorporate a backflow device. In these cases,

T0
=
T1
I
=
V
P0 ⋅ V 0 P1 ⋅ V1 P2 ⋅ V 2
T2
expansion of the antifreeze solution during warm weather will
cause the antifreeze system to exceed the maximum working
pressure, regardless of the size of the expansion chamber. The
where:
D normal static pressure is too close to the maximum working
pressure if the preceding formula for VEC yields a negative

IN
VEC = minimum required volume (gal) of expansion chamber
result. If this occurs, use a dry pipe system instead or install a
V0 = air volume (gal) in expansion chamber at precharge pressure-reducing valve before the backflow preventer.
(before installation)
V1 = air volume (gal) in expansion chamber at normal static A.9.3.5 With regard to preaction systems, it is assumed that

O R
pressure
V2 = air volume (gal) in expansion chamber at post-expansion
pressure (antifreeze at high temperature)
P0 = absolute precharge pressure (psia) on expansion cham‐
the release system will activate before the sprinklers. It is gener‐
ally accepted that smoke detectors and rate-of-rise detectors are
more sensitive than sprinklers and that fixed-temperature-

F
release devices with RTIs lower than that of sprinklers will react
ber before installation faster than sprinklers at similar spacings and locations.
P1 = absolute static pressure (psi) on water (supply) side of
backflow preventer A.10.1.1 The minimum pressure and flow requirements need
P2 = absolute maximum allowable working pressure (psi) for to be satisfied while also meeting the requirements of the
antifreeze system formula q = K(p)0.5. If a sprinkler with a K-factor of 4.3 is listed
T0 = temperature (°R) of air in expansion chamber at to cover an area of 18 ft × 18 ft (5.5 m × 5.5 m) at 16.2 gpm
precharge (61 L/min), the minimum pressure is required to be 14.2 psi
T1 = temperature (°R) of air in expansion chamber when anti‐ (0.1 bar) so that the flow is achieved. Likewise, if a sprinkler
freeze system piping is at lowest expected temperature with a K-factor of 5.6 is covering an area 12 ft × 12 ft (3.7 m ×
T2 = temperature (°R) of air in expansion chamber when anti‐ 3.7 m), the minimum flow is required to be 14.8 gpm (56 L/
freeze system piping is at highest expected temperature min) [the flow at 7 psi (0.5 bar)] even though a flow of
7.2 gpm (27 L/min) will satisfy the density criteria.

Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material. 2019 Edition
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
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13D-52 INSTALLATION OF SPRINKLER SYSTEMS IN ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS AND MANUFACTURED HOMES

Δ Table A.[Link] FPRF Antifreeze Testing Summary

Topic Information
Scope of sprinklers tested The following sprinklers were used during the residential sprinkler research program
described in Antifreeze Systems in Home Fire Sprinkler Systems — Phase II Final Report:
(1) Residential pendent style having nominal K-factors of 3.1, 4.9, and 7.4 gpm/psi (44, 70, and
1
100 lpm/bar- ∕ ) 2

(2) Residential concealed pendent style having a nominal K-factor of 4.9 gpm/psi1/2(70 lpm/
1
bar- ∕ ) 2

(3) Residential sidewall style having nominal K-factors of 4.2 and 5.5 gpm/psi1/2(60 and 80
1
lpm/bar- ∕ ) 2

The following sprinklers were used during the spray sprinkler research program described in
Antifreeze Solutions Supplied through Spray Sprinklers — Interim Report:
(1) Residential pendent style having a nominal K-factor of 3.1 gpm/psi1/2(44 lpm/bar- ∕ )
(2) Standard spray pendent style having nominal K-factors of 2.8, 4.2, 5.6, and 8.0 gpm/
L
1

Y 2

N
1
psi1/2(40, 60, and 80 lpm/bar- ∕ ) 2

(3) Standard spray concealed pendent style having a nominal K-factor of 5.6 gpm/psi1/2(80

O
1
lpm/bar- ∕ ) 2
2
(4) Standard spray upright style having a nominal K-factor of 5.6 gpm/psi1/2(80 lpm/bar- ∕ ) 2

(5) Standard spray extended coverage pendent style having a nominal K-factor of 5.6 gpm/

Antifreeze solution concentration

psi1/2(80 lpm/bar- ∕ )
1
2

S E
<50% glycerine and <40% propylene glycol antifreeze solutions: Solutions were not tested.
50% glycerine and 40% propylene glycol antifreeze solutions: Large-scale ignition of the

L U
sprinkler spray did not occur in tests with sprinkler discharge onto a fire having a nominal
heat release rate (HRR) of 1.4 MW. Large-scale ignition of the sprinkler spray occurred in
multiple tests with sprinkler discharge onto a fire having a nominal HRR of 3.0 MW.
55% glycerine and 45% propylene glycol antifreeze solutions: Large-scale ignition of the

of 1.4 MW.

U A
sprinkler spray occurred in tests with sprinkler discharge onto a fire having a nominal HRR

>55% glycerine and >45% propylene glycol antifreeze solutions: Large-scale ignition of the

D
sprinkler spray occurred in tests with sprinkler discharge onto a fire having an HRR <500 kW.
{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
I
70% glycerine and 60% propylene glycol antifreeze solutions: Maximum antifreeze solution
concentrations were tested.

V
Sprinkler inlet pressure

Ceiling height
D I
Large-scale ignition of the sprinkler discharge spray was not observed when the sprinkler inlet
pressure was ≤50 psi (3.4 bar) for tests using 50% glycerine or 40% propylene glycol.
When 50% glycerine and 40% propylene glycol antifreeze solutions were discharged onto fires

IN
having an HRR of 1.4 MW, no large-scale ignition of the sprinkler spray was observed with
ceiling heights up to 20 ft (6.1 m).
When 50% glycerine and 40% propylene glycol antifreeze solutions were discharged onto fires
having an HRR of 3.0 MW, large-scale ignition of the sprinkler spray was observed at a ceiling

O
Fire control R height of 20 ft (6.1 m).
The test results described in Antifreeze Systems in Home Fire Sprinkler Systems — Phase II Final Report
and Antifreeze Solutions Supplied through Spray Sprinklers — Interim Report indicated that

F discharging glycerine and propylene glycol antifreeze solutions onto a fire can temporarily
increase the fire size until water is discharged.
As a part of the residential sprinkler research described in Antifreeze Systems in Home Fire Sprinkler
Systems — Phase II Final Report, tests were conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of residential
sprinklers to control fires involving furniture and simulated furniture. The results of those
tests indicated that 50% glycerine and 40% propylene glycol antifreeze solutions
demonstrated the ability to control the furniture-type fires in a manner similar to water.
For standard spray-type sprinklers, no tests were conducted to investigate the ability of those
sprinklers to control the types and sizes of fires they are intended to protect.

2019 Edition Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material.
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

ANNEX A 13D-53

Temperature (°C) A.10.2 All residential sprinklers have been investigated under
–40 –30 –20 –10 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 a flat, smooth, 8 ft (2.4 m) high horizontal ceiling. Some resi‐
9.84 dential sprinklers have been investigated and listed for use
9.50
under specific ceiling configurations such as a horizontal
9.18 beamed ceiling. The performance of residential sprinklers
9.1 under flat, smooth, horizontal ceilings has been well documen‐
1.09 ted throughout the life of NFPA 13D. Prior to 2010, several
9.04
1.08 10
manufacturers of residential sprinklers had performed testing
0% 9.0 and received listings for residential sprinklers under certain
1.07
slopes and in certain beam conditions. In 2010, the Fire Protec‐

Density (lb/gal)
Density (g/mL)

8.88
1.06 tion Research Foundation (FPRF) conducted a research
8.80 project consisting of 76 FDS simulations and 12 full-scale fire
Fre

1.05
8.70 tests. The results have been used to develop system design crite‐

Y
e
zin

1.04 40% ria in a generic manner to simplify the use of residential sprin‐
gc

8.63
klers. Some residential sprinkler listings still exist for situations

L
30%
ur

1.03
beyond the scope of the generic design. See the FPRF report,
ve

8.54
1.02 20%
8.50 “Analysis of the Performance of Residential Sprinkler Systems
1.01
1.00
0.99
10% with Sloped or Sloped and Beamed Ceilings,” dated July 2010,
for more information.
Questions are frequently asked regarding the minimum two
O
sprinkler design when certain sprinkler performance statistics
N
0.98
–40 –20 0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180
Temperature (°F)
E
have indicated that in a majority of the cases (with residential
sprinklers) the fire is controlled or suppressed with a single

S
sprinkler. While these statistics might or might not be accurate,
the water supplies for the fire sprinkler systems under which
Note: The 100 percent concentration curves are provided for
information only so that densities are known for calculating
solutions.

FIGURE A.[Link](a) Densities of Aqueous Propylene Glycol

L U
these statistics were generated were designed for two or more
sprinklers in the first place. When the fires occurred, the first
sprinkler operated in excess of its individual design flow and
pressure because the sprinkler system’s water supply was strong
Solutions (Percent by Weight). [13:Figure [Link](b)]

U A enough to handle multiple sprinklers and only a single sprin‐

kler opened. At these higher flows and pressures, the discharge
from a single sprinkler was sufficient to limit or suppress the

{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
I D Temperature (°C)

1.29
–40 –30 –20 –10

I V
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80

D
1.27 (FP 62.6°F) (17°C)
100% b
1.25 y weigh 9.84
t glyceri

IN
1.23 ne 9.50
1.21 9.18
1.19 9.1

R
1.17 9.04
Density (lb/gal)
Density (g/mL)

(FP –9°F) (–23°C)

1.15 9.0

O
1.13 50% by 8.88
1.11 weight
glycerin

F
e 8.80
1.09
1.07 8.70
1.05 8.63
8.54
1.03 8.50
1.01 (FP 32°F) (0°C)
100% b
y weigh
0.99 t water
0.97
0.95
–40.00 –20.00 0.00 20.00 40.00 60.00 80.00 100.00 120.00 140.00 160.00 180.00
Temperature (°F)

Note: The 100 percent concentration curves are provided for information only so that densities are known for
calculating solutions.

FP: Freezing point.

Δ FIGURE A.[Link](b) Densities of Aqueous Glycerine Solutions (Percent by Weight). [13:Figure [Link](c)]

Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material. 2019 Edition
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

13D-54 INSTALLATION OF SPRINKLER SYSTEMS IN ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS AND MANUFACTURED HOMES

heat generated from the fire. This concept is called “hydraulic spaces. The hall is a separate compartment since there is still
increase.” Hydraulic increase can also occur when a water an 8 in. (200 mm) lintel between the living room and hall. In
supply’s capabilities during the fire event exceeded that Figure A.10.2(c), the living room, dining room, and hall are
required by the minimum design requirements of the standard. considered one compartment since there are no lintels separat‐
Since none of the data used to generate the previously ing those spaces.
mentioned statistics captured the capabilities of the water
supply in relation to the design requirements, the impact of the A.10.2.4 A number of variables exist that would influence the
hydraulic increase on the number of single sprinkler activa‐ number of sprinklers that might open during a fire. In many of
tions cannot be determined. the fire tests that led to the development of the residential
sprinkler, and in many of the subsequent tests, including the
But if the minimum water supply requirement of the stan‐ testing conducted as a part of the previously referenced FPRF
dard is reduced to only be capable of handling a single sprin‐ sloped ceiling research project, more than two sprinklers have
kler, then there could be no hydraulic increase safety factor. opened during certain fire tests, but the water supply, sized for

Y
When the first sprinkler opens, it will only get the flow and only two sprinklers, was still capable of controlling the fire for
pressure that were originally designed for it, and the potential 10 minutes and meeting the goals of NFPA 13D. While there is
is significant for that to be insufficient to control the fire, given
any obstructions and the layout of the space where the fire
starts.
The National Institute for Standards and Technology
no guarantee that more than two sprinklers would always open,
it is believed that the two-sprinkler design criterion is appropri‐

N
ate for ceiling constructions and room configurations that are
within the limitations referenced 10.2.1 and 10.2.3.
L
(NIST), under a grant from the United States Fire Administra‐
tion, studied this concept several years ago in the hopes of
O
For the ceiling constructions and room configurations that
are beyond the scope of the two-sprinkler discharge criterion
being able to propose a single-sprinkler flow for the 2007
edition of NFPA 13D (see NIST Report NIST GCR 05-875
prepared by Underwriters Laboratories with a publication date
of February 2004). Unfortunately, the research did not support
E
referenced in 10.2.1 and 10.2.3, a greater number of design
sprinklers and/or higher discharge flows should be considered

S
in the system design. As of this date, there is limited fire test

the design of a sprinkler system with only the flow for a single
sprinkler, even under conditions of small rooms with flat,
smooth ceilings. Without the hydraulic increase associated with
the two-sprinkler design, the fire scenarios were too many
Maximum

L U
8 ft (2.4 m)
openings in

A
where the first sprinkler to open would have insufficient flow to a single Dining
wall Kitchen
control the fire and then multiple sprinklers would open, caus‐ room

U
ing the room to reach untenable conditions and the water Hall
supply to be overrun. These same fire scenarios were easily
controlled by a sprinkler system designed for a two-sprinkler
{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
water supply from the start.

I D Minimum 8 in. (200 mm) lintel Minimum 8 in.

(200 mm) lintel

V
Living room
In addition to the NIST tests, the National Fire Sprinkler

I
Design
Association conducted a series of full-scale fire tests in simula‐ demand
ted bedrooms that were 14 ft × 14 ft (4.2 m × 4.2 m) with an

D
area
adjoining hallway, each with flat, smooth, 8 ft (2.4 m) high ceil‐ (compartment)
ings. The tests were performed to determine better rules for

IN
keeping sprinklers clear of obstructions like ceiling fans, but Δ FIGURE A.10.2(a) Sprinkler Design Areas for Typical
baseline tests were also performed without any obstructions at Residential Occupancy — With Lintel Between Adjoining
the ceiling. In nine out of the twelve tests, including the two Spaces: Dining Room and Hall.

R
baseline tests without obstructions at the ceiling, a sprinkler in
the hall outside the room of fire origin opened first, followed

O
by the sprinkler in the room of origin. Even though the room
of origin met all of the rules of NFPA 13D as a compartment, a

F
sprinkler outside of this room was opening first. All of these
fires were controlled by the sprinklers, but if the water supply
had only been sufficient for a single sprinkler, the sprinklers
might not have been able to provide fire control.
For examples of selecting a compartment for consideration,
Dining
room
Kitchen

Minimum
8 in.
(200 mm)
lintel
Hall

see Figure A.10.2(a), Figure A.10.2(b), and Figure A.10.2(c), Minimum 8 in.
which show examples of design configurations for compart‐ (200 mm) lintel
ments based on the presence of lintels to stop the flow of heat. Living room
In all three figures, the area under consideration for determin‐ Design
ing the number of design sprinklers is the living room. In demand
area
Figure A.10.2(a), the living room is considered a compartment (compartment)
since the opening to the hall has an 8 in. (200 mm) lintel, the
opening to the dining room has an 8 in. (200 mm) lintel, and Δ FIGURE A.10.2(b) Sprinkler Design Areas for Typical
all openings on that wall are limited to 8 ft (2.4 m). In Figure Residential Occupancy — Without Lintel Between Dining
A.10.2(b), the living room and dining room are considered Room, With Lintel Between Hall.
one compartment due to the lack of a lintel between the two

2019 Edition Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material.
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

ANNEX A 13D-55

data available to include specific design criteria in this stan‐

dard. In these situations, sprinklers can be installed in a
manner acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction to
achieve the results specified in this standard. In making these
determinations, consideration should be given to factors influ‐ FIGURE A.[Link](1) Water Supply Manifold.
encing sprinkler system performance, such as sprinkler
response characteristics, impact of obstructions on sprinkler
discharge, and number of sprinklers anticipated to operate in A.[Link](1) Where a four-port fitting is used, and one of the
the event of a fire. ports is not being used to satisfy this requirement or to feed a
domestic fixture, the extra port should be connected to
For the situation of flat, smooth, horizontal ceilings with another open port at a sprinkler or should be connected to the
beams at the ceiling, there are a number of variables that could water supply pipe (manifold). [See Figure A.[Link](1).]
cause many sprinklers to open during a fire. Residential sprin‐
Δ A.10.4.4 The determination of public water supply pressure

Y
klers used in accordance with all of the restrictions of their list‐
ing can be used to protect this circumstance. should take into account the probable minimum pressure

L
conditions prevailing during such periods as during the night
A.[Link] Any special listing of products covered in [Link] or during the summer months when heavy usage can occur.

N
should include certification by the manufacturer of personnel The possibility of interruption by floods or ice conditions in
involved in the layout, calculation, and installation of their winter also should be considered. [See Figure A.10.4.4(a), Figure
product.

O
A.10.4.4(b),Table A.10.4.4(a), Table A.10.4.4(b), Table A.10.4.4(c),
and Table A.10.4.4(d).]

E
A.10.4.4(4) The total length includes equivalent length of
fittings as determined by applying Table 10.4.4(b), Table

S
Kitchen
10.4.4(c), Table 10.4.4(d), or Table 10.4.4(e).
Dining Minimum
A.10.4.4(6) The flow through water meters is not limited by
room 8 in.
(200 mm)
lintel
Hall

U
Table 10.4.4(a). The friction losses in this table are not given
for high flows because they are not standardized by all manu‐

L
facturers. Every size meter has a rated flow (up to which fric‐
tion losses are generally published by manufacturers). But for

Design
demand
Living room

U A flows greater than rated flow, many manufacturers do not

publish friction loss data. This does not prohibit the use of
such meters. It just means that the friction loss must be
obtained before deciding to use any specific meter.

ID
area

{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
(compartment)

N FIGURE A.10.2(c) Sprinkler Design Areas for Typical

The purpose of the rated flow of a meter has to do with the
daily and continuous use of the meter. Higher flows are permit‐

I V
Residential Occupancy — Without Lintel Between Adjoining
Spaces: Dining Room and Hall.
ted for meters over short durations. An NFPA 13D sprinkler
system is only expected to deliver water for 10 minutes. Flows

D
significantly higher than rated flows can go through water
meters for 10 minutes, with no adverse effects on the meter.

IN
Δ Table A.10.4.4(a) Pressure Losses in psi/ft for Schedule 40 Steel Pipe (C = 120)

O R
Pipe Size
(in.) 10 12 14 16 18
Flow Rate (gpm)
20 25 30 35 40 45 50

F 1
11∕4
11∕2
2
0.04
0.01
0.01
—
0.05
0.01
0.01
—
0.07
0.02
0.01
—
0.09
0.02
0.01
—
0.11
0.03
0.01
—
0.13
0.03
0.02
0.01
0.20
0.05
0.02
0.01
0.28
0.07
0.03
0.01
0.37
0.10
0.05
0.01
0.47
0.12
0.06
0.02
0.58
0.15
0.07
0.02
0.71
0.19
0.09
0.03
Flow Rate (lpm)
Pipe Size
(mm) 38 45 53 61 68 75 95 115 130 150 170 190
25 0.0090 0.0113 0.0158 0.0204 0.0249 0.0294 0.0452 0.0633 0.0837 0.1063 0.1312 0.1606
32 0.0023 0.0023 0.0045 0.0045 0.0068 0.0068 0.0113 0.0158 0.0226 0.0271 0.0339 0.0430
40 0.0023 0.0023 0.0023 0.0023 0.0023 0.0045 0.0045 0.0068 0.0113 0.0136 0.0158 0.0204
50 — — — — — 0.0023 0.0023 0.0023 0.0023 0.0045 0.0045 0.0068
For SI units, 1 gal = 3.785 L; 1 psi = 0.0689 bar; 1 in. = 25.4 mm; 1 ft = 0.3048 m.

Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material. 2019 Edition
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

13D-56 INSTALLATION OF SPRINKLER SYSTEMS IN ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS AND MANUFACTURED HOMES

Δ Table A.10.4.4(b) Pressure Losses in psi/ft for Copper Tubing — Types K, L, and M (C = 150)

Flow Rate (gpm)

Tubing
Size (in.) Type 10 12 14 16 18 20 25 30 35 40 45 50
3
∕4 M 0.08 0.12 0.16 0.20 0.25 0.30 0.46 0.64 0.85 — — —
L 0.10 0.14 0.18 0.23 0.29 0.35 0.53 0.75 1.00 — — —
K 0.13 0.18 0.24 0.30 0.38 0.46 0.69 0.97 1.28 — — —
1 M 0.02 0.03 0.04 0.06 0.07 0.08 0.13 0.18 0.24 0.30 0.38 0.46
L 0.03 0.04 0.05 0.06 0.08 0.10 0.15 0.20 0.27 0.35 0.43 0.53
K 0.03 0.04 0.06 0.07 0.09 0.11 0.17 0.24 0.31 0.40 0.50 0.61
11∕4 M 0.01 0.01 0.02 0.02 0.03 0.03 0.05 0.07 0.09 0.11 0.15 0.17
L 0.01 0.01 0.02 0.02 0.03 0.03 0.05 0.07 0.10 0.12 0.16 0.19

11∕2
K
M
L
0.01
—
—
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.02
0.01
0.01
0.02
0.01
0.01
0.03
0.01
0.01
0.04
0.01
0.01
0.06
0.02
0.02
0.08
0.03
0.03
0.11
0.04
0.04
0.13
0.05
0.05
0.17
0.06
0.07
L Y
0.20
0.08
0.08

N
K — 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.02 0.02 0.03 0.05 0.06 0.07 0.09
2 M — — — — — — 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.02 0.02

O
L — — — — — — 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.02 0.02
K — — — — — — 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.02 0.02

E
Tubing Flow Rate (lpm)
Size
(mm) Type 38 45 53 61 68 75 95 115 130 150 170 190
20
20
20
M
L
K
0.0181
0.0226
0.0294
0.0271
0.0317
0.0407
0.0362
0.0407
0.0543
0.0452
0.0520
0.0679
0.0566
0.0656
0.0860
0.0679
0.0792
0.1041
0.1041

U
0.1199
0.1561
0.1448
0.1697
0.2194 S 0.1923
0.2262
0.2896
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—

L
25 M 0.0045 0.0068 0.0090 0.0136 0.0158 0.0181 0.0294 0.0407 0.0543 0.0679 0.0860 0.1041
25 L 0.0068 0.0090 0.0113 0.0136 0.0181 0.0226 0.0339 0.0452 0.0611 0.0792 0.0973 0.1199

A
25 K 0.0068 0.0090 0.0136 0.0158 0.0204 0.0249 0.0385 0.0543 0.0701 0.0905 0.1131 0.1380
32 M 0.0023 0.0023 0.0045 0.0045 0.0068 0.0068 0.0113 0.0158 0.0204 0.0249 0.0339 0.0385
32
32
L
K
0.0023
0.0023
0.0023
0.0023

{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
40 M — 0.0023
0.0045
0.0045
0.0023
0.0045
0.0045

D
0.0023
0.0068
0.0068
0.0023 U 0.0068
0.0090
0.0023
0.0113
0.0136
0.0045
0.0158
0.0181
0.0068
0.0226
0.0249
0.0090
0.0271
0.0294
0.0113
0.0362
0.0385
0.0136
0.0430
0.0452
0.0181
40
40
L
K
—
—
0.0023
0.0023
0.0023
0.0023

V I 0.0023
0.0023
0.0023
0.0023
0.0023
0.0045
0.0045
0.0045
0.0068
0.0068
0.0090
0.0113
0.0113
0.0136
0.0158
0.0158
0.0181
0.0204
50
50
50
M
L
K
—
—
—
—
—
—

D I —
—
—
—
—
—
For SI units, 1 gal = 3.785 L; 1 psi = 0.0689 bar; 1 in. = 25.4 mm; 1 ft = 0.3048 m.
—
—
—
—
—
—
0.0023
0.0023
0.0023
0.0023
0.0023
0.0023
0.0023
0.0023
0.0023
0.0023
0.0023
0.0023
0.0045
0.0045
0.0045
0.0045
0.0045
0.0045

IN
Δ Table A.10.4.4(c) Pressure Losses in psi/ft for CPVC Pipe (C = 150)

Nominal
Pipe Size
(in.)

O R Actual
Pipe Size
(in.) 10 12 14 16 18
Flow Rate (gpm)

20 25 30 35 40 45 50

F
3
∕4 0.874 0.05 0.07 0.10 0.13 0.16 0.19 0.29 0.40 0.53 0.68 0.85 1.03
1 1.101 0.02 0.02 0.03 0.04 0.05 0.06 0.09 0.13 0.17 0.22 0.28 0.34
11∕4 1.394 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.02 0.02 0.03 0.04 0.05 0.07 0.09 0.11
11∕2 1.598 0 0 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.02 0.02 0.03 0.04 0.04 0.05
2 2.003 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.02
Nominal Actual Flow Rate (lpm)
Pipe Size Pipe Size
(mm) (mm) 38 45 53 61 68 75 95 115 130 150 170 190
20 22.2 0.0113 0.0158 0.0226 0.0294 0.0362 0.0430 0.0656 0.0905 0.1199 0.1538 0.1923 0.2330
25 28.0 0.0045 0.0045 0.0068 0.0090 0.0113 0.0136 0.0204 0.0294 0.0385 0.0498 0.0633 0.0769
32 35.4 0.0023 0.0023 0.0023 0.0023 0.0045 0.0045 0.0068 0.0090 0.0113 0.0158 0.0204 0.0249
40 40.6 0 0 0.0023 0.0023 0.0023 0.0023 0.0045 0.0045 0.0068 0.0090 0.0090 0.0113
50 50.9 0 0 0 0 0 0 0.0023 0.0023 0.0023 0.0023 0.0023 0.0045
For SI units, 1 gal = 3.785 L; 1 psi = 0.0689 bar; 1 in. = 25.4 mm; 1 ft = 0.3048 m.

2019 Edition Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material.
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

ANNEX A 13D-57

Δ Table A.10.4.4(d) Pressure Losses in psi/ft for PEX Pipe (C = 150)

Nominal Actual Flow Rate (gpm)

Pipe Size Pipe Size
(in.) (in.) 10 12 14 16 18 20 25 30 35 40 45 50
∕4
3
0.68 0.18 0.25 0.33 0.43 0.53 0.64 0.97 1.36 1.81 2.32 2.88 3.50
1 0.875 0.05 0.07 0.10 0.12 0.16 0.19 0.28 0.40 0.53 0.68 0.84 1.03
11∕4 1.07 0.02 0.03 0.04 0.05 0.06 0.07 0.11 0.15 0.20 0.26 0.32 0.39
11∕2 1.263 0.01 0.01 0.02 0.02 0.03 0.03 0.05 0.07 0.09 0.11 0.14 0.17
2 1.653 0 0 0 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.02 0.02 0.03 0.04 0.05
Nominal Actual Flow Rate (lpm)
Pipe Size Pipe Size
(mm) (mm) 38 45 53 61 68 75 95 115 130 150 170 190
20
25
32
17.3
22.2
27.2
0.0407
0.0113
0.0045
0.0566
0.0158
0.0068
0.0747
0.0226
0.0090
0.0973
0.0271
0.0113
0.1199
0.0362
0.0136
0.1448
0.0430
0.0158
0.2194
0.0633
0.0249
0.3077
0.0905
0.0339
0.4095
0.1199
0.0452
0.5248
0.1538
0.0588 Y
0.6515

L
0.1900
0.0724
0.7918
0.2330
0.0882
40
50
32.1
42.0
0.0023
0
0.0023
0

To prove that higher flows for short durations are not a

0.0045
0
0.0045
0.0023
0.0068
0.0023
0.0068
0.0023
0.0113
0.0023
0.0158
0.0045
0.0204
0.0045

O N 0.0249
0.0068

A.12.1 These instructions should include the following:

0.0317
0.0090
0.0385
0.0113

E
problem, the Fire Protection Research Foundation (FPRF) (1) Information regarding the necessary system inspection,
sponsored testing of many different models of many different testing, and maintenance as described in this standard
flow meters at greater than rated flows for 20 minutes. During
the tests, friction losses through the meters were obtained. The
report showed that regular water meters had no problem with
significantly higher flows than rated flow for the 20-minute
(2)

(3)

U S
The manufacturers’ installation, care, and maintenance
instructions for the installed sprinkler system components
Name, address, and phone number of the installing
contractor of the fire sprinkler system

L
duration. An example of the data from the experiments is (4) Name, address, and phone number of a fire sprinkler
shown in Figure A.10.4.4(6), which shows the results from test‐ system service company if different than the installing

A
ing four different 5∕8 in. positive displacement meters. The dark contractor
curve on the graph represents the friction loss information

U
from Table 10.4.4(a) of NFPA 13D. The full report of the FPRF The occupants of a home with a sprinkler system should
can be downloaded from the NFPA website at http:// understand that maintaining a sprinkler system is mostly about

D
[Link]/research/fire-protection-research-foundation/ common sense. Keeping the control valve open, not hanging
{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
reports-and-proceedings/suppression.
A.[Link](6)(d) The required pressure is provided in the

V I items from the sprinklers, and making sure that the sprinklers
do not get painted or obstructed are the most important items.
It is also important to know the function of the main control
kler model based on the selected flow rate.

D I
sprinkler manufacturer’s published data for the specific sprin‐

A.11.2.1 Fire department connections are not required for

valve and where the control valve is located.
A.12.2 The building owner or manager should understand the
sprinkler system operation and conduct periodic inspections

IN
systems covered by this standard but can be installed at the and tests to make sure that the system is in good working condi‐
discretion of the owner. In these cases, hydrostatic tests in tion. A recommended inspection and testing program includes
accordance with NFPA 13 are necessary. the following:

R
Dry systems should also be tested with air at the pressure (1) Monthly inspection of all valves to ensure that they are
value intended to be maintained within the system during serv‐ open

O
ice. This testing should be conducted in accordance with the (2) Monthly inspection of tanks and other stored water sour‐
guidance provided in the manufacturers’ instructions for the ces, if present, to confirm they are full

F dry system components. Any leak that results in a drop in

system pressure greater than 11∕2 psi (0.14 bar) in 24 hours
should be corrected. Leaks should be identified using soapy
water brushed on each joint or coupling. The presence of
bubbles indicates a leak. This test should be made prior to
(3)

(4)
Monthly testing of pumps, if present, to make sure they
operate properly and do not trip circuit breakers when
starting
Testing of all waterflow devices, when provided, every
6 months including monitoring service (note that notifi‐
concealing the piping. The soap should be compatible with all cation of the monitoring service is essential to make sure
contacted sprinkler system components. that the fire department is not called due to testing)
A.11.2.2 The flow of water is necessary to make sure that the (5) Ongoing visual inspection of all sprinklers to make sure
pump does not get damaged during testing. The use of a timer they are not obstructed, damaged, corroded, covered
to keep the pump running is not recommended because the with foreign materials, field painted, or showing signs of
timer will allow the pump to run when no water is flowing. The leakage, and that decorations are not attached to them
pump needs to run for the entire duration without interrup‐ (6) Annually, fully open the test connection downstream of
tion, including not tripping the circuit breaker. any pressure-reducing or pressure-regulating valve, and
make sure that the pressure gauge reads a reasonable
A.[Link].1 There should be no delay in the activation of the value
pump upon flow of water. (7) Inspect systems by individuals knowledgeable and trained
in such systems when there is a change in ownership

Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material. 2019 Edition
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

13D-58 INSTALLATION OF SPRINKLER SYSTEMS IN ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS AND MANUFACTURED HOMES

Individual Net Individual Net

Loss Total Loss Total
(1) Water pressure in street Water pressure at supply outlet
(1) Deduct head loss for elevation
(2) Arbitrarily select pipe size
[ ft (m) × 0.433 psi/ft
(3) Deduct meter loss (size) (0.098 bar/m)]
(4) Deduct head loss for elevation (2) Deduct pressure loss from piping
within building*
[ ft (m) × 0.433 psi/ft (0.098 bar/m)]
Remaining pressure for sprinkler operation
(5) Deduct pressure loss from city main to sprinkler system

control valve*
*Factors from Table 10.4.4(a) through Table 10.4.4(e).

Y
Pipe ft (m)
Δ FIGURE A.10.4.4(b) Calculation Sheet — Elevated Tank,

L
Valves ft (m)
Booster Pump, Pump Tank Supply.
Elbows ft (m)
Tee
Total
ft (m)
ft (m) ×
(6) Deduct pressure loss for piping control valve to farthest
(bar)
80
(5.5) AWWA — Max
O N
E
sprinkler*
70 operating range
(4.8)

Size Quantity Description

Total
Equivalent
(ft) (m)
Pressure loss (psi)

50
(3.4)
60
(4.1)

U S
L
90 degree elbow 40
45 degree elbow (2.8)
Tee
Check valve
Valve ( )

U A 20
(1.4)
30
(2.1)

ID
Total ft (m) × = 10 AWWA — Max pressure

{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717} Total
Equivalent
(0.7)
0
loss at operating range

V
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80
Size Quantity Description (ft) (m)

I
(38) (76) (114) (151) (190) (227) (265) (303)
90 degree elbow Flow rate (gpm) (lpm)

D
45 degree elbow ⁵⁄₈ in. (16 mm) PD-1 ⁵⁄₈ in. (16 mm) PD-4
Tee ⁵⁄₈ in. × ³⁄₄ in. (16 mm × 20 mm) PD-2 ⁵⁄₈ in. (16 mm)

IN
⁵⁄₈ in. × ³⁄₄ in. (16 mm × 20 mm) PD-3 NFPA 13D
Check valve
Valve ( ) Δ FIGURE A.10.4.4(6) 5
∕8 in. Water Meter Data from FPRF
Total ft (m) × = Tests.

O R
Remaining pressure for sprinkler operation A.[Link] It is recognized that the flow and pressure available

F
* Factors from Table 10.4.4(a) through Table 10.4.4(e).

Δ FIGURE A.10.4.4(a) Calculation Sheet.

to the replacement sprinkler might be less than its current flow
and pressure requirement.
A.[Link] Whenever painting or home improvements are
made in the dwelling unit, special attention should be paid to
ensure that sprinklers are not painted or obstructed either at
the time of installation or during subsequent redecoration.
This is as important for the cover plates of concealed sprinklers
as it is to the sprinklers themselves. Special paint is used for
cover plates and can only be applied by the manufacturer.
Applying paint to cover plates outside of the factory can cause
the sprinkler to malfunction and possibly not operate during a
fire. When painting is occurring in the vicinity of sprinklers,
the sprinklers should be protected by covering them with a
bag, which should be removed immediately after painting is
finished. For concealed-type sprinklers, the cover plates should
be removed (most are designed to be unscrewed) and then the

2019 Edition Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material.
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

ANNEX A 13D-59

sprinklers should be protected underneath from paint and Δ Table A.12.3.5 Properties of Glycerine and Propylene Glycol
overspray with a bag. After the painting is finished, the bags for Existing Systems
should be removed from the sprinklers and the cover plates
should be replaced. Solution Specific Freezing Point
(by volume) Gravity at
A.12.3.4 See Figure A.9.1.1(a) through Figure A.9.1.1(d) for
Material (%) 77°F (25°C) ºF ºC
possible methods used by the installer to insulate sprinkler
piping in unheated areas. It is important that this insulation Glycerine (C.P. or
not be disturbed or removed. Disturbing or removing this insu‐ U.S.P. grade) 0 1.000 32 0
lation could result in sprinkler pipes being frozen during 5 1.014 31 -0.5
winter months that would not only block water flow to the 10 1.029 28 -2.2
sprinklers but could cause broken pipes and fittings. 15 1.043 25 -3.9
20 1.059 20 -6.7
A.12.3.5 Sampling from the top and bottom of the system 25 1.071 16 -8.9
helps to determine if the solution has settled. Antifreeze solu‐
tions are heavier than water. If the antifreeze compound is
separating from the water due to poor mixing, it will exhibit a
30
35
40
45
1.087
1.100
1.114
1.130
10

L
4
-2
-11
Y -12
-15.5
-19
-24

N
higher concentration in the lower portion of the system than in
the upper portions of the system. If the concentration is accept‐ 50 1.141 -19 -28

O
able near the top, but too low near the water connection, it Propylene glycol 0 1.000 32 0
could mean that the system is becoming diluted near the water 5 1.004 26 -3
supply. If the concentration is either too high or too low in 10 1.008 25 -4
both the samples, it could mean that the wrong concentration
was added to the system.
On an annual basis, test samples should be drawn from test
S E15
20
25
30
1.012
1.016
1.020
1.024
22
19
15
11
-6
-7
-10
-12

U
valve B as shown in Figure [Link].1, especially if the water 35 1.028 2 -17
portion of the system has been drained for maintenance or 40 1.032 -6 -21
repairs. A small hydrometer can be used so that a small sample

L
C.P.: Chemically Pure. U.S.P.: United States Pharmacopoeia 96.5%.
is sufficient. Where water appears at valve B, or where the

A
sample indicates that the solution has become weakened, the
entire system should be emptied and refilled with acceptable N A.[Link] The primary purpose of this standard is protection
against injury and life loss. There are many instances when an

U
solution as previously described.
installed system needs to be taken out of service such as for
Where systems are drained in order to be refilled, it is not shipping or storage of a manufactured home, when extensive
typically necessary to drain drops that are less than 36 in.
{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
I
(900 mm) in length. Most systems with drops have insufficient
D renovation or remodeling work is going on in the home, or
when the home will be unoccupied for an extended period of

V
volume to cause a problem, even if slightly higher concentra‐ time such as when a summer home is closed up for winter. This

D I
tion solutions collect in the drops. For long drops with signifi‐
cant volume, consideration should be given to draining drops
if there is evidence that unacceptably high concentrations of
antifreeze have collected in these long drops.
section provides guidance for taking an installed system out of
service when there is little or no risk of injury or life loss. This
guidance is especially needed when the detached dwelling or
manufactured home is subject to freezing temperatures. Once

IN
When emptying and refilling antifreeze solutions, every the home is to be occupied again, the system should be tested
attempt should be made to recycle the old solution with the for leaks and the system and components inspected and tested
antifreeze manufacturer rather than discarding it. before being restored to service.

R
See Table A.12.3.5. The manufacturer’s technical data sheets
can include specific information on the properties of their anti‐

O
freeze solutions.
N A.[Link].1 For drops less than 4 in. (100 mm) long, the
branch line piping and the drops can both be installed in areas
subject to freezing. Tests prove that if the branch line is empty
of water and water is in a drop, when ice forms it will expand

F A.[Link].1.3 If not already present, test connections (valves)

for collection of solution samples should be installed at the
highest and lowest practical locations of the system or portion
of the system containing antifreeze solution.
into the branch piping without harming the sprinkler or the
system piping.
For horizontal sidewall sprinklers, the testing manifolds were
comprised of 1 in. (25 mm) CPVC pipe and fittings, and the
A.[Link].3 In the past, for some existing systems subject to sprinklers were installed into 1 in. × 1∕2 in. (25 mm × 15 mm)
extremely low temperatures, antifreeze solutions with concen‐ sprinkler adapter reducing elbows that were located 4 in.
trations greater than what is now permitted by NFPA 13D were (100 mm) from the centerline of the branch line. For pendent
used. Such high concentrations of antifreeze are no longer sprinklers, the testing manifolds were comprised of 1 in.
permitted. In situations where extremely low temperatures are (25 mm) CPVC pipe and fittings, and the sprinklers were in‐
anticipated, refilling the fire sprinkler system with a concentra‐ stalled into a 1 in. × 1∕2 in. (25 mm × 15 mm) sprinkler adapter
tion of antifreeze solution currently permitted by the standard fitting with a 4 in. (100 mm) long pipe nipple.
might not provide sufficient freeze protection without addi‐
tional measures. Such measures might include converting the
antifreeze system to another type of sprinkler system.

Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material. 2019 Edition
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

13D-60 INSTALLATION OF SPRINKLER SYSTEMS IN ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS AND MANUFACTURED HOMES

Annex B Informational References Antifreeze Solutions Supplied through Spray Sprinklers – Interim
Report, February, 2012.
B.1 Referenced Publications. The documents or portions
thereof listed in this annex are referenced within the informa‐ Antifreeze Systems in Home Fire Sprinkler Systems — Literature
tional sections of this standard and are not part of the require‐ Review and Research Plan, June 2010.
ments of this document unless also listed in Chapter 2 for Antifreeze Systems in Home Fire Sprinkler Systems — Phase II Final
other reasons. Report, December 2010.
B.1.1 NFPA Publications. National Fire Protection Associa‐ “Sprinkler Insulation: A Literature Review,” July 2011.
tion, 1 Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02169-7471.
B.1.2.3 NFIRS Publications. National Fire Incident Reporting
NFPA 13, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems, 2019 System, U.S. Fire Administration, 16825 S. Seton Avenue,
edition. Emmitsburg, MD 21727.
NFPA 13R, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems in
Low-Rise Residential Occupancies, 2019 edition.
NFPA 24, Standard for the Installation of Private Fire Service
NFIRS 5.0, Program Manager Toolkit (CD-ROM).
B.1.2.4 NFSA Publications. National Fire Sprinkler Associa‐
tion, 514 Progress Drive Suite A, Linthicum Heights, MD
L Y
Mains and Their Appurtenances, 2019 edition.
NFPA 72®, National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code®, 2019
edition.
NFPA 286, Standard Methods of Fire Tests for Evaluating Contri‐
21090.

O N
Valentine and Isman, Kitchen Cabinets and Residential Sprin‐
klers, November 2005.
Valentine and Isman, Interaction of Residential Sprinklers, Ceil‐
bution of Wall and Ceiling Interior Finish to Room Fire Growth, 2015
edition.
B.1.2 Other Publications.
S E
ing Fans and Similar Obstructions, November 2005.
B.1.2.5 NIST Publications. National Institute of Standards
and Technology, 100 Bureau Drive, Gaithersburg, MD
B.1.2.1 ASTM Publications. ASTM International, 100 Barr
Harbor Drive, P.O. Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA
19428-2959.
20899-1070.

L U
NIST GCR 05-875, Research Investigation for Determination of
Residential Sprinkler Performance, February 2004.
ASTM A135, Standard Specification for Electric-Resistance-Welded
Steel Pipe, 2006.
ASTM E84, Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Character‐
U A B.1.2.6 UL Publications. Underwriters Laboratories Inc., 333
Pfingsten Road, Northbrook, IL 60062-2096.
ANSI/UL 723, Standard for Test for Surface Burning Characteris‐

ID
istics of Building Materials, 2016. tics of Building Materials, 2008, Revised 2010.
{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
ASTM F437, Standard Specification for Threaded Chlorinated Poly ANSI/UL 1626, Residential Sprinklers for Fire-Protection Service,

I V
(Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC) Plastic Pipe Fittings, Schedule 80, 1996.
ASTM F438, Standard Specification for Socket-Type Chlorinated
2008.
B.2 Informational References. (Reserved)

D
Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC) Plastic Pipe Fittings, Schedule 40, 1997.
B.3 References for Extracts in Informational Sections.
ASTM F439, Standard Specification for Socket-Type Chlorinated

IN
Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC) Plastic Pipe Fittings, Schedule 80, 1997. NFPA 13, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems, 2019
edition.
ASTM F442, Standard Specification for Chlorinated Poly (Vinyl
Chloride) (CPVC) Plastic Pipe (SDR-PR), 1997. NFPA 24, Standard for the Installation of Private Fire Service

R
ASTM F876, Standard Specification for Crosslinked Polyethylene

O
(PEX) Tubing, 2008.
Mains and Their Appurtenances, 2019 edition.

F
IEEE/ASTM SI 10, Standard for Use of the International System
of Units (SI): The Modern Metric System, 1997.
B.1.2.2 FPRF Publications. Fire Protection Research Founda‐
tion, 1 Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02169.
“Analysis of the Performance of Residential Sprinkler
Systems with Sloped or Sloped and Beamed Ceilings,” July
2010.

2019 Edition Shaded text = Revisions. Δ = Text deletions and figure/table revisions. • = Section deletions. N = New material.
Copyright 2023 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA®). Licensed by agreement to Steve Steele FOR INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY and downloaded on 01/14/2023. No reproduction or transmission in any form permitted without
written permission of NFPA®. For inquiries or access for multiple users, or to report unauthorized use, contact orders@[Link].

INDEX 13D-61

Index
Copyright © 2018 National Fire Protection Association. All Rights Reserved.

The copyright in this index is separate and distinct from the copyright in the document that it indexes. The licensing provi‐
sions set forth for the document are not applicable to this index. This index may not be reproduced in whole or in part by any
means without the express written permission of NFPA.

-A- Qualifications, 4.5

Administration, Chap. 1 Sprinkler Temperature Ratings, 4.1
Equivalency, 1.4 Tube, 4.2
New Technology, 1.6
-I-
Purpose, 1.2, A.1.2
Retroactivity, 1.3
Scope, 1.1, A.1.1
Units, 1.5
Informational References, Annex B
Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance, Chap. 12
General, 12.1, A.12.1
L Y
Approved
Definition, 3.2.1, A.3.2.1
Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ)
Definition, 3.2.2, A.3.2.2
Inspections and Tests, 12.2, A.12.2
Maintenance, 12.3
Antifreeze Systems, 12.3.5, A.12.3.5

O N
Annual Antifreeze Solution Test and Replacement
Procedure, [Link]

Bathroom
Definition, 3.3.1, A.3.3.1
-B-

S E
Tag, [Link].4
Inactive Systems, 12.3.6
Painting Sprinklers, 12.3.3

Compartment
Definition, 3.3.2
-C-

L U Wet Pipe Systems, 12.3.4, A.12.3.4

Installation, Chap. 7
Alarms, 7.6, A.7.6
Attics, 7.7

Definitions, Chap. 3
-D-

U A Drains and Test Connections, 7.2

Piping Support, 7.4
Pressure Gauges, 7.3

D
Design Discharge Sprinklers, 7.5

{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
Definition, 3.3.3
Discharge and Hydraulic Calculations, Chap. 10

V I Escutcheon Plates, 7.5.8

Painting and Ornamental Finishes, 7.5.7, A.7.5.7

I
Design Discharge, 10.1 Solvent Cement, 7.5.9
Sprinklers That Are Listed with Specific Discharge Temperature Ratings, 7.5.6

D
Criteria, 10.1.1, A.10.1.1 Valves, 7.1
Water Supply, 10.1.2

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Number of Design Sprinklers, 10.2, A.10.2 -L-
Pipe Sizing, 10.4 Labeled
General Pipe Sizing Method, 10.4.4, A.10.4.4 Definition, 3.2.3

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Minimum Pipe Size, 10.4.2 Listed
Prescriptive Pipe Sizing Method, 10.4.9 Definition, 3.2.4, A.3.2.4

O
Available Pressure Equation, [Link]
Calculation Procedure, [Link] -M-

F Piping Configurations, 10.3

Dwelling
Definition, 3.3.4
Dwelling Unit
Manufactured Home
Definition, 3.3.6, A.3.3.6

Premixed Antifreeze Solution

-P-
Definition, 3.3.5
Definition, 3.3.7, A.3.3.7
-E- Pressure
Explanatory Material, Annex A Definition, 3.3.8
Supply Pressure
-G- Definition, [Link]
General Requirements, Chap. 4 System Pressure
Documentation, 4.4, A.4.4 Definition, [Link]
Listed or Labeled, 4.3

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13D-62 INSTALLATION OF SPRINKLER SYSTEMS IN ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS AND MANUFACTURED HOMES

System Working Pressure Basements Without Ceilings, 8.2.4

Definition, [Link] Closets and Compartments, 8.2.7
Protection from Freezing, Chap. 9 Exposed Barrel Lengths for Dry Sprinklers, 8.2.6, A.8.2.6
Antifreeze Systems, 9.2, A.9.2 Nonresidential Sprinklers, 8.2.3
Antifreeze Solutions, 9.2.2, A.9.2.2 Obstructions to Residential Sprinklers, 8.2.5, A.8.2.5
Arrangement of Supply Piping and Valves, 9.2.3, A.9.2.3 Continuous Obstructions to Pendent Sprinklers, [Link]
Connections Between Antifreeze System and Wet Pipe Continuous Obstructions to Sidewall Sprinklers, [Link]
System with Backflow Prevention Device Pendent Sprinklers, [Link]
Installed, [Link], A.[Link] Shadow Areas, [Link], A.[Link]
Connections Between Antifreeze System and Wet Pipe Sidewall Sprinklers, [Link]
System with No Backflow Prevention
Device, [Link] Soffits and Cabinets, [Link]
Conformity with Health Regulations, 9.2.1, A.9.2.1 Residential Pendent and Upright Sprinklers, 8.2.1
Hydrostatic Test, 9.2.4
Placard Information, 9.2.5
Dry Pipe and Preaction Systems, 9.3
Residential Sidewall Sprinklers, 8.2.2
Sprinkler Systems
Antifreeze Sprinkler System
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Air Supply, 9.3.9
Auxiliary Drains, 9.3.8
Detection Devices, 9.3.5, A.9.3.5
Drainage, 9.3.7
Definition, [Link]
Definition, 3.3.12
Dry Pipe Sprinkler System
Definition, [Link]
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E
Dry Pipe and Double Interlock Preaction System Water Multipurpose Piping Sprinkler System
Delivery, 9.3.3 Definition, [Link], A.[Link]
Location and Protection of Dry Pipe and Preaction
Valves, 9.3.4
Preaction Systems, 9.3.2
Sprinklers, 9.3.1
Network Sprinkler System

U S
Definition, [Link], A.[Link]
Passive Purge Sprinkler System
Definition, [Link], A.[Link]
System Configuration, 9.3.6
System Types, 9.1
Systems in Areas Subject to Freezing, 9.1.2
Wet Pipe Systems, 9.1.1, A.9.1.1
A L
Pre-Engineered Sprinkler System
Definition, [Link]
Preaction Sprinkler System

U
Definition, [Link]
Pump Sprinkler System

D
Definition, 3.3.9 Definition, [Link]
{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717} -R-

V I Stand-Alone Sprinkler System

Definition, [Link], A.[Link]

I
Referenced Publications, Chap. 2 Wet Pipe Sprinkler System
Definition, [Link]
-S-
Shadow Area
D Standard
Definition, 3.2.7

IN
Definition, 3.3.10, A.3.3.10 System Acceptance, Chap. 11
Shall Acceptance Tests, 11.2
Definition, 3.2.5 Hydrostatic Tests, 11.2.1, A.11.2.1

R
Should Pump Tests, 11.2.2, A.11.2.2
Definition, 3.2.6 System Operational Tests, 11.2.3

O
Sprinkler Dry Pipe and Double-Interlock Preaction
Automatic Sprinkler Systems, [Link]

F Definition, [Link]
Definition, 3.3.11
Residential Sprinkler
Definition, [Link]
Sprinkler Position and Location, Chap. 8
Preaction Systems, [Link]
Waterflow Devices, [Link]
General, 11.1
System Components, Chap. 5
Aboveground Pipe and Equipment, 5.2
Design Criteria, 8.1 General, 5.1
Nonresidential Sprinklers, 8.1.2 Pre-Engineered Systems, 5.4
Operating Pressure, 8.1.4 Water Supply Pipe and Fittings, 5.3, A.5.3
Sloped Ceilings, 8.1.1
Sprinkler Coverage, 8.1.3 -T-
Residential Sprinklers, [Link] Townhouse
Location of Sprinklers, 8.3 Definition, 3.3.13
Position of Sprinklers, 8.2

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INDEX 13D-63

-V- Common Supply Pipes, 6.5

Valve General Provisions, 6.1
Check Valve Manufactured Home Water Supply, 6.4
Definition, [Link] Multipurpose Piping System, 6.3, A.6.3
Control Valve Water Supply Sources, 6.2, A.6.2
Definition, [Link], A.[Link] Waterflow Alarm
Definition, 3.3.14 Definition, 3.3.15
Waterflow Detector
-W- Definition, 3.3.16
Water Supply, Chap. 6

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Sequence of Events for the Standards Committee Membership

Development Process Classifications1,2,3,4
Once the current edition is published, a Standard is opened for The following classifications apply to Committee members
Public Input. and represent their principal interest in the activity of the
Committee.
Step 1 – Input Stage
• Input accepted from the public or other committees for 1. M Manufacturer: A representative of a maker or mar-
consideration to develop the First Draft keter of a product, assembly, or system, or portion
• Technical Committee holds First Draft Meeting to revise thereof, that is affected by the standard.
Standard (23 weeks); Technical Committee(s) with Cor- 2. U User: A representative of an entity that is subject to
relating Committee (10 weeks) the provisions of the standard or that voluntarily
• Technical Committee ballots on First Draft (12 weeks); uses the standard.
Technical Committee(s) with Correlating Committee 3. IM Installer/Maintainer: A representative of an entity that
(11 weeks) is in the business of installing or maintaining a prod-
• Correlating Committee First Draft Meeting (9 weeks)
• Correlating Committee ballots on First Draft (5 weeks)
• First Draft Report posted on the document information
uct, assembly, or system affected by the standard.
4. L Labor: A labor representative or employee concerned
with safety in the workplace.
L Y
page
Step 2 – Comment Stage
• Public Comments accepted on First Draft (10 weeks) fol-
lowing posting of First Draft Report
and/or enforces standards.
O N
5. RT Applied Research/Testing Laboratory: A representative
of an independent testing laboratory or indepen-
dent applied research organization that promulgates

6. E Enforcing Authority: A representative of an agency or

• If Standard does not receive Public Comments and the
Technical Committee chooses not to hold a Second Draft
meeting, the Standard becomes a Consent Standard and
is sent directly to the Standards Council for issuance (see
standards.

S E
an organization that promulgates and/or enforces

7. I Insurance: A representative of an insurance company,

Step 4) or
• Technical Committee holds Second Draft Meeting
(21 weeks); Technical Committee(s) with Correlating
U
broker, agent, bureau, or inspection agency.
8. C Consumer: A person who is or represents the ultimate
purchaser of a product, system, or service affected by

L
the standard, but who is not included in (2).

A
Committee (7 weeks) 9. SE Special Expert: A person not representing (1) through
• Technical Committee ballots on Second Draft (11 weeks); (8) and who has special expertise in the scope of the

U
Technical Committee(s) with Correlating Committee standard or portion thereof.
(10 weeks)
• Correlating Committee Second Draft Meeting (9 weeks)
{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
• Correlating Committee ballots on Second Draft
(8 weeks)
I D NOTE 1: “Standard” connotes code, standard, recom-
mended practice, or guide.

I
• Second Draft Report posted on the document informa-
tion page
V NOTE 2: A representative includes an employee.
NOTE 3: While these classifications will be used by the
Step 3 – NFPA Technical Meeting
D Standards Council to achieve a balance for Technical Com-
mittees, the Standards Council may determine that new

IN
• Notice of Intent to Make a Motion (NITMAM) accepted classifications of member or unique interests need repre-
(5 weeks) following the posting of Second Draft Report sentation in order to foster the best possible Committee
• NITMAMs are reviewed and valid motions are certified deliberations on any project. In this connection, the Stan-
by the Motions Committee for presentation at the NFPA

R
dards Council may make such appointments as it deems
Technical Meeting appropriate in the public interest, such as the classification
• NFPA membership meets each June at the NFPA Techni- of “Utilities” in the National Electrical Code Committee.

F O
cal Meeting to act on Standards with “Certified Amend-
ing Motions” (certified NITMAMs)
• Committee(s) vote on any successful amendments to the
Technical Committee Reports made by the NFPA mem-
bership at the NFPA Technical Meeting
NOTE 4: Representatives of subsidiaries of any group are
generally considered to have the same classification as the
parent organization.

Step 4 – Council Appeals and Issuance of Standard

• Notification of intent to file an appeal to the Standards
Council on Technical Meeting action must be filed within
20 days of the NFPA Technical Meeting
• Standards Council decides, based on all evidence,
whether to issue the standard or to take other action
Notes:
1. Time periods are approximate; refer to published sched-
ules for actual dates.
2. Annual revision cycle documents with certified amend-
ing motions take approximately 101 weeks to complete.
3. Fall revision cycle documents receiving certified amend-
ing motions take approximately 141 weeks to complete.
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Submitting Public Input / Public Comment Through the Online Submission System
Soon after the current edition is published, a Standard is open for Public Input.

Before accessing the Online Submission System, you must first sign in at [Link]. Note: You will be asked to
sign-in or create a free online account with NFPA before using this system:

a. Click on Sign In at the upper right side of the page.

b. Under the Codes and Standards heading, click on the “List of NFPA Codes & Standards,” and then select
your document from the list or use one of the search features.

OR

a. Go directly to your specific document information page by typing the convenient shortcut link of
[Link]/document# (Example: NFPA 921 would be [Link]/921). Sign in at the upper right
side of the page.
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To begin your Public Input, select the link “The next edition of this standard is now open for Public Input”
located on the About tab, Current & Prior Editions tab, and the Next Edition tab. Alternatively, the Next Edition
tab includes a link to Submit Public Input online.
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At this point, the NFPA Standards Development Site will open showing details for the document you have
selected. This “Document Home” page site includes an explanatory introduction, information on the current
S E
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document phase and closing date, a left-hand navigation panel that includes useful links, a document Table of
Contents, and icons at the top you can click for Help when using the site. The Help icons and navigation panel
will be visible except when you are actually in the process of creating a Public Input.

L
U A
Once the First Draft Report becomes available there is a Public Comment period during which anyone may
submit a Public Comment on the First Draft. Any objections or further related changes to the content of the First
Draft must be submitted at the Comment stage.
{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
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To submit a Public Comment you may access the online submission system utilizing the same steps as previously
explained for the submission of Public Input.

I V
D
For further information on submitting public input and public comments, go to: [Link]
publicinput.

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Other Resources Available on the Document Information Pages

O R
About tab: View general document and subject-related information.

Current & Prior Editions tab: Research current and previous edition information on a Standard.

F Next Edition tab: Follow the committee’s progress in the processing of a Standard in its next revision cycle.

Technical Committee tab: View current committee member rosters or apply to a committee.

Technical Questions tab: For members and Public Sector Officials/AHJs to submit questions about codes and
standards to NFPA staff. Our Technical Questions Service provides a convenient way to receive timely and consis-
tent technical assistance when you need to know more about NFPA codes and standards relevant to your work.
Responses are provided by NFPA staff on an informal basis.

Products & Training tab: List of NFPA’s publications and training available for purchase.

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Information on the NFPA Standards Development Process

I. Applicable Regulations. The primary rules governing the processing of NFPA standards (codes, standards,
recommended practices, and guides) are the NFPA Regulations Governing the Development of NFPA Standards (Regs). Other
applicable rules include NFPA Bylaws, NFPA Technical Meeting Convention Rules, NFPA Guide for the Conduct of Participants in
the NFPA Standards Development Process, and the NFPA Regulations Governing Petitions to the Board of Directors from Decisions of
the Standards Council. Most of these rules and regulations are contained in the NFPA Standards Directory. For copies of the
Directory, contact Codes and Standards Administration at NFPA Headquarters; all these documents are also available on
the NFPA website at “[Link].”
The following is general information on the NFPA process. All participants, however, should refer to the actual rules and
regulations for a full understanding of this process and for the criteria that govern participation.
II. Technical Committee Report. The Technical Committee Report is defined as “the Report of the responsible
Committee(s), in accordance with the Regulations, in preparation of a new or revised NFPA Standard.” The Technical
Committee Report is in two parts and consists of the First Draft Report and the Second Draft Report. (See Regs at
Section 1.4.)
III. Step 1: First Draft Report. The First Draft Report is defined as “Part one of the Technical Committee Report, which
documents the Input Stage.” The First Draft Report consists of the First Draft, Public Input, Committee Input, Committee
and Correlating Committee Statements, Correlating Notes, and Ballot Statements. (See Regs at [Link] and Section 4.3.)
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Any objection to an action in the First Draft Report must be raised through the filing of an appropriate Comment for
consideration in the Second Draft Report or the objection will be considered resolved. [See Regs at 4.3.1(b).]
IV. Step 2: Second Draft Report. The Second Draft Report is defined as “Part two of the Technical Committee Report,
which documents the Comment Stage.” The Second Draft Report consists of the Second Draft, Public Comments with
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corresponding Committee Actions and Committee Statements, Correlating Notes and their respective Committee
Statements, Committee Comments, Correlating Revisions, and Ballot Statements. (See Regs at [Link] and Section 4.4.)

S
The First Draft Report and the Second Draft Report together constitute the Technical Committee Report. Any outstanding
objection following the Second Draft Report must be raised through an appropriate Amending Motion at
E
the NFPA Technical Meeting or the objection will be considered resolved. [See Regs at 4.4.1(b).]

U
V. Step 3a: Action at NFPA Technical Meeting. Following the publication of the Second Draft Report, there is a period

L
during which those wishing to make proper Amending Motions on the Technical Committee Reports must signal their

A
intention by submitting a Notice of Intent to Make a Motion (NITMAM). (See Regs at 4.5.2.) Standards that receive
notice of proper Amending Motions (Certified Amending Motions) will be presented for action at the annual June NFPA

U
Technical Meeting. At the meeting, the NFPA membership can consider and act on these Certified Amending Motions as
well as Follow-up Amending Motions, that is, motions that become necessary as a result of a previous successful Amending

D
Motion. (See [Link] through [Link] and Table 1, Columns 1-3 of Regs for a summary of the available Amending Motions
{1EB98D8E-8CD0-4CDE-B05F-B05811A42717}
I
and who may make them.) Any outstanding objection following action at an NFPA Technical Meeting (and any further
Technical Committee consideration following successful Amending Motions, see Regs at [Link] through [Link]) must be

V
raised through an appeal to the Standards Council or it will be considered to be resolved.

D I
VI. Step 3b: Documents Forwarded Directly to the Council. Where no NITMAM is received and certified in accordance
with the Technical Meeting Convention Rules, the standard is forwarded directly to the Standards Council for action on
issuance. Objections are deemed to be resolved for these documents. (See Regs at [Link].)

IN
VII. Step 4a: Council Appeals. Anyone can appeal to the Standards Council concerning procedural or substantive matters
related to the development, content, or issuance of any document of the NFPA or on matters within the purview of the
authority of the Council, as established by the Bylaws and as determined by the Board of Directors. Such appeals must be in

R
written form and filed with the Secretary of the Standards Council (see Regs at Section 1.6). Time constraints for filing an
appeal must be in accordance with 1.6.2 of the Regs. Objections are deemed to be resolved if not pursued at this level.

O
VIII. Step 4b: Document Issuance. The Standards Council is the issuer of all documents (see Article 8 of Bylaws). The

F
Council acts on the issuance of a document presented for action at an NFPA Technical Meeting within 75 days from the
date of the recommendation from the NFPA Technical Meeting, unless this period is extended by the Council (see Regs at
4.7.2). For documents forwarded directly to the Standards Council, the Council acts on the issuance of the document at its
next scheduled meeting, or at such other meeting as the Council may determine (see Regs at [Link] and 4.7.4).
IX. Petitions to the Board of Directors. The Standards Council has been delegated the responsibility for the
administration of the codes and standards development process and the issuance of documents. However, where
extraordinary circumstances requiring the intervention of the Board of Directors exist, the Board of Directors may take
any action necessary to fulfill its obligations to preserve the integrity of the codes and standards development process
and to protect the interests of the NFPA. The rules for petitioning the Board of Directors can be found in the Regulations
Governing Petitions to the Board of Directors from Decisions of the Standards Council and in Section 1.7 of the Regs.
X. For More Information. The program for the NFPA Technical Meeting (as well as the NFPA website as information
becomes available) should be consulted for the date on which each report scheduled for consideration at the meeting will
be presented. To view the First Draft Report and Second Draft Report as well as information on NFPA rules and for up-to-
date information on schedules and deadlines for processing NFPA documents, check the NFPA website ([Link]/
docinfo) or contact NFPA Codes & Standards Administration at (617) 984-7246.

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