A sprinkler tank is an essential component of your fire protection system, ensuring that water is available when you need it most. Over time, even the most durable tanks can degrade, risking the safety of your system and putting your property in danger during an emergency. Identifying the right time to replace your sprinkler tank can prevent costly breakdowns and ensure your fire protection system remains effective and compliant with regulations.
Why Replacing Your Sprinkler Tank Matters
Your fire protection system relies on a fully functioning sprinkler tank. As tanks age, they may no longer meet modern safety and environmental demands. Older tanks may also fail to comply with current regulations, which can lead to compliance issues. Regular inspections help determine when a tank no longer meets the requirements for fire protection, highlighting when it’s time for replacement.
Franklin Hodge specialises in fire protection tanks like our Liquistore® and Firestore® models, which are engineered to meet high industry standards and offer long-term reliability and durability.
Common Reasons for Sprinkler Tank Replacement
Several factors can contribute to the need for tank replacement. Here are some of the most common reasons:
Internal Corrosion: Over time, galvanised steel tanks can suffer from rust and corrosion, especially when the internal liner deteriorates. Corrosion weakens the tank structure and can lead to leaks or failure, compromising the entire fire safety system.
Physical Damage or Deformation: Tanks exposed to harsh weather conditions, impact, or general wear and tear can suffer from physical damage. Deformation of tank panels or fixings can compromise the tank’s structural integrity, making it unsafe for continued use.
Persistent Leaks: If a tank develops persistent leaks that cannot be repaired with standard refurbishment, it’s time to consider a replacement. Leaking tanks reduce water storage capacity and may lead to contamination.
Outdated Design: Older tanks may not meet current fire protection standards. Tanks that don’t comply with BS EN 12845 or LPCB regulations can put your property at risk and may not be covered by insurance policies.
How Tank Inspections Help Identify Replacement Needs
Regular inspections are essential for assessing the condition of your sprinkler tank and determining whether refurbishment or replacement is the best option. The Fire Protection Agency, (FPA) has issued a useful guide entitled Technical Bulletin TB203, which gives advice on the inspection and assessment of fire sprinkler tanks. At Franklin Hodge, our comprehensive inspection process includes:
- Visual and Structural Inspections: Both internal and external checks to assess the tank’s overall condition and identify any issues.
- Drone-led Surveys: For hard-to-reach areas, we use drones to inspect the tank structure, detecting corrosion, structural damage, or seal failures without the need for costly or risky scaffolding.
- Expert Evaluation: Our engineers evaluate whether refurbishment is viable or if replacement is the safer, more cost-effective solution.
FPA TB203 recommends that fire sprinkler tanks are inspected every 2 years, with a major inspection, including a drain down and clean taking place 10 years from when the tank was installed. In addition, inspection of a tank should occur after any major incidents, such as damage from mobile plant or weather events, to ensure the tank is still in top condition.
When Refurbishment Isn’t Enough
While refurbishment can often extend the lifespan of a sprinkler tank, certain situations make replacement the safer and more cost-effective choice. If the tank’s internal liner has deteriorated or the steel structure is corroded beyond repair, refurbishment may not be viable.
If the tank’s panels are severely damaged or deformed, it’s best to replace it with a completely new unit. In the long term, replacing an outdated tank with a modern, compliant unit can reduce future maintenance costs and improve operational efficiency.
What to Look for in a Replacement Sprinkler Tank?
When replacing a sprinkler tank, you need a solution that meets current safety, environmental, and regulatory standards. Franklin Hodge offers a range of high-quality, certified fire protection tanks:
- Firestore®: Cylindrical tank, built with high-grade galvanised steel and a tailor-made internal liner for corrosion resistance, this tank is perfect for large fire protection systems. LPCB and FM approved. FM approved Firestore® is available in either galvanised steel or a marine alloy of aluminium.
- Firetainer®: A modular, sectional, LPCB-approved tank suitable for compact spaces like plant rooms or roof voids, providing a flexible solution where space is limited.
All of these tanks are designed to withstand high wind speeds, seismic loads, and long-term outdoor exposure. Internal liners reduce corrosion risks and ensure the tank’s longevity, giving you peace of mind that your fire protection system will function when you need it most.
Residential Systems: Special Considerations
For residential or multi-occupancy buildings, sprinkler tank needs may differ due to space constraints and system size. Our small capacity Firetainer® tanks are an ideal solution for these environments, designed in line with BS 9251:2001, the UK standard for residential fire sprinkler systems. While these tanks are compact, they still provide all the benefits of a larger system, ensuring that fire protection is available when needed most. However, like all systems, they should be replaced when they show signs of ageing, leaks, or degradation.
Don’t Wait for Failure: Ensure Long-Term Fire Safety
The replacement of a sprinkler tank isn’t something that should be left until it fails. Regular inspections, scheduled maintenance, and timely replacement are crucial to ensuring that your fire protection system remains reliable and compliant with safety regulations. By investing in a quality, certified replacement tank, you’re ensuring the long-term safety of your site and the people who depend on it.
For expert advice on selecting the right replacement tank for your site, or to arrange an inspection, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’ll help you find the best solution for your needs.
