What Is A Fire Suppression System?
One of the greatest dangerous in any kitchen is fire. A fire suppression system is there to keep your kitchen safe and to save you money.System specifics will, of course, vary by brand and type, yet all suppression systems include the same two basic elements. The first element eliminates the fire’s fuel source and the second element then stops it from spreading anywhere.
A fire suppression system designed for a restaurant will connect to two areas of the cooking station: the gas line and hood. Whenever a fire is sensed by the system, the gas line is shut off. Afterwards, the nozzles in the hood’s ventilation system discharges a water-based suppressant. This suppressant includes a chemical that is designed specifically to eliminate grease fires. The last step of the process is the ventilation system removing any and all smoke from the area.
The biggest benefit of these systems is that they are very simple to operate. Fire suppression systems will resemble sprinkler systems. These systems will activate whenever fire is detected in the area. Fire suppression systems will reduce damage and ultimately save money.
Kitchen Fire Suppression Costs
Here is a look at typical costs for the most commonly used kitchen fire suppression systems, both for commercial and residential use:
- HoodMart currently offers hoods that include built-in fire suppression systems. These hoods will range in price from $6,500-$7,500.
- Using a low pH liquid agent designed for multiple appliances, the Ansul R-102 costs from $3,000-$5,500. The Ansul R-102 can also detect fires in ventilating equipment, which includes ducts, hoods and grease extractors.
- Superior Hoods FIRESUPP systems come rated from medium to high heat. Sizes can range from 4′ to 16′ with this model, and the price tag runs from $2,000-$4,200.
Kitchen Fire Suppression Cost Factors
Several factors can influence the cost of the kitchen fire suppression system, including:
- The size of the hood.
- Which appliances do you need the system to cover?
- Will it cover any specialty appliances?
Your kitchen plays a vital role in determining costs. For example, the exact size of the kitchen and type will determine the number of detection brackets needed. This will also be used to figure out the number of wall brackets, nozzles and hood penetration seals needed.
Fire Suppression System Types
Wet and dry are the two types of chemical systems used to suppress commercial and residential kitchen fires today. The wet chemical system is, by far, the most common type of system. This system uses a chemical reaction called saponification to suppress flames. Using a strong alkali like potassium hydroxide, the wet chemical system will neutralize the fat source that fuels the fire. Wet systems come complete with a saponification value that details the level of alkali necessary to extinguish the oil or fat. Some fats will require a higher saponification value for the system to work efficiently and effectively.
Dry chemical systems are actually intended for liquid fires. These will remove oxygen via the application of a chemical that covers the burning material, eliminating the air it needs to expand. Dry systems can also be used on fires involving electrical components.
Kitchen Fire Suppression System Maintenance
Follow these guidelines to keep your system operating properly in order to maximize your investment:
- Regular maintenance will keep your equipment running and can help you discover any potential issues.
- Regularly cleaning your appliances will significantly lower any fire risks.
- Keep a backup fire extinguisher (class k rating) nearby to protect your kitchen, if necessary.
