Restaurant operators know that wet chemical systems are the only solution to their fire suppression needs. In fact, commercial cooking cannot be done without a state of the art Fire Suppression system. Voluminous cooking with today’s vegetable oils cause high heat conditions therefore creating a hazardous environment to say the least. The potential for a fire exists well after the last customer has left and the restaurant has closed its doors for the night.
Having Fire Suppression systems that automatically detects heat and/or fire, and effectively smothers it, is now the industry standard. By integrating heat sensors, fires are now able to be detected almost before they start. The system’s ability to sense a fire with such speed not only saves lives, but property as well. In the past, dry chemical systems were the norm, now wet agent systems are the standard. There are some fundamental considerations that need to be taken into account.
There are several top-of-the-line fire suppression systems’ manufacturers who are a level above the rest. However, only an experienced fire suppression system’s expert or contractor, who is in fact certified by those manufacturers, should be on your list. This is a must when it comes to choosing which system to integrate into your commercial cooking operation.
First and foremost all fire suppression systems are not equal. They use different processes and agents to extinguish fires. Some may be more effective on grease, such as in a restaurant kitchen, and others may be more effective on paper, such as in a warehouse. In a restaurant kitchen, certain features are critical, including: mechanical gas shut-off, remote pull station and distribution piping.
There are other types of fire suppression systems including: special hazard, dry chemical and various others. However, when it comes to commercial cooking, fires need to be diffused at the fuel source with a gas valve micro switch for electric equipment. This is one reason why clean agent systems are becoming more popular. They’re fast acting, and act so as to control and extinguishing flash fires before they take hold.
As we said, there are a couple manufacturers who stand out such as Amerex and Ansul fire suppression systems. The later being the gold standard in the industry. They come in stainless steel enclosures, and look aesthetically better in addition to providing the best in breed results.
A rapid response system is critical to help smother a fire and save lives as well as limit the risk of asset loss and damage. Designing and installing such a system is no easy task. The first step is to conduct a survey per the architectural plans. If they are not accessible or this is a brand new commercial kitchen, the fire suppression contractor will do their own survey. This includes looking at the cooking equipment, determining the size of the hood, how big the duct size is, and estimate which suppression system would be the best for your needs.
Keep in mind that all fire suppression systems need to be installed per current UL-300 standards. This includes protecting the complete hood plenum, the entire cooking surface and the exhaust ducts.
The Jay L Harman Fire Equipment team understands your firefighting needs and is ready to help
The team at Jay L Harman Fire Equipment understands that you will have many burning questions on your mind when it comes to choosing the right fire extinguishers and fire suppression systems for your business.
Jay L Harman Fire Equipment is your go-to distributor for OVAL low-profile fire extinguishers in West Texas and New Mexico.
Jay L Harman is the best and one of the biggest firefighting equipment suppliers and service providers in the region, specializing in fire suppression systems, fire extinguishers, emergency lighting, fire fighting protective gear, fire hoses and more. Serving El Paso TX, Las Cruces NM and the surrounding areas, we pride ourselves on buying local and hiring local whenever possible.
Contact Jay L. Harman Fire Equipment in El Paso TX at 915-533-7021 or Las Cruces NM at 575-523-8880.
Since 1925, we have protected businesses throughout the area from the harms and hazards of fires. Every Jay L Harman technician is licensed and regulated by the Texas Department of Insurance State Fire Marshal’s Office. Each of these technicians continually receives the most up-to-date factory training and certifications by our manufacturers. Contact Jay L Harman Fire Equipment today. Let our friendly and knowledgeable staff tell you more about our fire suppression systems and help you find the ideal fire suppression system for your needs. Learn more about our full offering of fire extinguisher training, firefighting services, request a quote, ask a question or request additional information.