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Maintenance

Fire Pump 

Weekly Tests

Vales & Piping

  • Check pump suction, discharge and bypass valves to ensure they are open and piping is free of leaks. (In most cases, valves should be locked)

Automatic Start

  • Test the automatic start by opening a test line to reduce system pressure.

  • FOR DIESEL ENGINES: Run the engine at rated speed for at least 30 min. This allows all running components to warm up and stabilize, which drives off condensation and moisture that can shorten the life of important engine components.

  • FOR ELECTRIC MOTORS: Check operation of the starting devices, and allow the pump to run for at least 10 mins.

Pump Controller

  • Check for alarm conditions.

  • Check that controller is in automatic start mode.

  • Verify receipt of remote-monitoring alarms during automatic start test.

Pressure Controller

  • Verify that relief valves operate properly. Usually, this means water should not be flowing through them. 

  • Relief Valves are designed to keep pressure from exceeding the system's design pressure in the event a pump driver experiences an over-speed condition, or if the public water supply pressure increases.

Pump Cooling

  • Check water flow out of the shaft seal packing in the stuffing box.

  • Slight leakage is normal and indicates water lubrication and cooling is adequate.

  • Also check the pump casing and bearings for overheating and signs of excess vibration.

Water Supplies

  • Overflow the suction tanks or check them visually.

  • In cold weather, make sure heat is provided to the supply lines and the suction sources

  • For open bodies of water, check the suction intake for possible obstructions.

  • Verify drought or dry conditions have not significantly reduced the water supply.

  • For public supply booster pumps, check all valves on the suction line.

Pump RoomTemperature

  • Minimum temperature should be 40°F (4°C).

  • For internal combustion engines, the recommended minimum temperature is 70°F (21°C).

  • Provide an engine jacket water heater set at 120°F (49°C) or a lubricating oil heater if the room temperature is not maintained above 70°F (21°C)

Diesel Engines

  • Fuel tank level: when it is below three-quarters full, the tank must be refilled.

  • Any valves in the fuel supply lines from the tank to the driver filter or pump system to ensure they are locked in the open position

  • Oil level using the dipstick on the engine crankcase

  • Battery charger and batteries: are they operating properly?

  • Cleanliness of the strainer in the engine cooling system.

  • Proper operation of engine instruments: rpm, oil pressure, temperature, amps.

Monthly Tests

  • Check the level and the specific gravity of the diesel engine battery electrolyte.

  • Check for corrosion of diesel engine battery terminals and condition of cable lines and connections.

Biannual Tests

  • Change engine oil.

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