What is the 18 inch rule for sprinklers?
Nothing should be in that area between the bottom of the sprinkler heads and the imaginary horizontal plane parallel to the ceiling that is 18 inches below. This is done to allow an even and unobstructed spray pattern from the sprinklers when triggered to extinguish the fire. The top reason that fire sprinkler systems do not function correctly during a fire is that a valve controlling water to the system was closed. If a valve was closed water could not get to the sprinklers.
How many years does a sprinkler system last?
Generally speaking, residential lawn sprinklers can last anywhere between 20 to 25 years depending on how well your system was installed and maintained. The ideal lifespan of a lawn sprinkler system Under good conditions, with quality materials and proper installation: Underground piping: 25–30 years. Valves: 10–15 years. Sprinkler heads and nozzles: 5–10 years.