Fire sprinkler systems explained: wet pipe, dry pipe, pre-action, and deluge. Learn when to use each one and how to choose the right system.

Architects don't design fire sprinkler systems, but you make dozens of decisions that directly affect how they get designed, installed, and coordinated. This episode breaks down all four types of fire sprinkler systems, explains what makes each one different, and gives you a simple decision framework for choosing the right system based on occupancy, climate, and what's inside the space.

We cover how wet pipe sprinkler systems work as your default starting point, when to switch to a dry pipe sprinkler system for freezing conditions, why pre-action sprinkler systems exist for museums and data centers, and when a deluge sprinkler system is the only option. We also get into the design coordination that lands on your drawings, including fire department connections, riser rooms, ceiling coordination, and sprinkler head types.

This topic crosses PA, PPD, and PDD on the ARE, and understanding the decision framework will help you answer any fire sprinkler question the exam throws at you.

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