Keeping your fire hydrants in good repair saves lives. But fire hydrants are often forgotten when it’s too late.
Because a fire hydrant needs minimal use compared to other water infrastructure like pipes or valves, it’s tempting to dismiss fire hydrant maintenance as nothing more than a public works budget line item.
But fire hydrants account for fire department call-outs. That’s why the fire hydrant can’t be left to chance when it comes to maintenance. Keep reading for everything you need to know.
When and How To Inspect Fire Hydrants
Regular hydrant inspections should be a part of the protocol for a hydrant maintenance routine. These should be conducted yearly to ensure the hydrant and its components are in good working order.
Use an apparatus to release the water pressure to inspect a hydrant, and you should open the hydrant at the curb stop. Once you drain the hydrant, check it for any signs of damage or defects, including corrosion and leaks.
The hydrant should be inspected for blockages that could reduce water flow, such as debris or debris buildup. After inspection, repairing hydrant damage is necessary, and then testing the hydrant to determine its flow rate before putting it back into operation. You can opt for a smart hydrant to improve and maintain water quality for cleaning fire hydrants.
Check Hydrant Outlet Nozzle Caps
One crucial element of fire hydrant maintenance is checking the outlet nozzle caps. First, locate the external valve lever at the base or near the fire hydrant to prevent these nozzle caps. Next, pull the lever and inspect the cap seals to ensure they are secure and not damaged or cracked.
Also, inspect the external and internal valves to ensure they are not clogged and open and close properly. To prevent blockages, have a regular cleaning of the outlets. Replace all nozzle caps immediately if broken or excessively worn.
Ensure Proper Hydrant Height
Proper maintenance of the fire hydrant is essential to ensure appropriate hydrant height. Fire hydrants should be installed 5 feet above the ground and with a minimum of 6 inches of exposed fire hydrant above the finished grade. You should conduct regular maintenance to inspect for signs of deterioration and ensure the hydrant is securely mounted and at the specified height.
Lubricate Regularly
Regarding fire hydrant maintenance, lubrication should be carried out regularly. The purpose of this is to avoid damage to the components of the hydrant by providing lubrication to the internals, including the valves, seats, and seals. It is vital for preventing hydrant damage and malfunction, but in some cases, you can use it to flush any grit or debris that may have built up inside the hydrant.
It is best to lubricate the hydrant at least twice a year to ensure it works reliably. As the manufacturer recommends, using the correct lubricant for the specific hydrant is essential.
Once lubricated, it is vital to check and test the hydrant. It will ensure it still functions well and provides the required water pressure.
Follow These Tips in Fire Hydrant Maintenance
You must regularly maintain fire hydrants to ensure they’re in proper working order and ready to go in an emergency. By following the guide in this article, landlords can better ensure they’re prepared and up-to-date. Follow the guide in fire hydrant maintenance to maintain your fire hydrants and safeguard your tenants.
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