Emergency Backflow Replacement for Fire Suppression System
When Smith Travel Research underwent a routine fire suppression system test by the city, their preventative backflow system failed, requiring an urgent replacement. The affected system featured an 8-inch backflow preventer weighing over 1,200 lbs., a project far beyond standard plumbing work.
The job required a team of three commercial plumbers and a crane to remove the failed unit and install the replacement. Despite the complexity, the project was completed in just half a day, restoring compliance and ensuring the fire suppression system remained fully operational.
Project Overview
During a routine fire suppression system test by the city, Smith Travel Research’s backflow prevention system failed, requiring a full replacement to meet compliance standards. However, this wasn’t a typical backflow preventer replacement. Given the building’s size, the facility needed an 8-inch unit weighing over 1,200 lbs., making it a complex project beyond standard plumbing work.
The Challenge
In Hendersonville, TN, the timeframe for repairing or replacing a failed backflow system depends on the hazard level, ranging from immediate disconnection to a maximum of ninety days. Knowing this, we had to act quickly to restore compliance and keep the fire suppression system fully operational.
Replacing a failed backflow preventer of this size required careful coordination and expertise. Due to the unit’s weight and complexity, specialized crane equipment and a highly skilled commercial plumbing team were essential to complete the replacement safely and efficiently.
The Solution
Interstate AC deployed a team of three experienced commercial plumbers to complete the replacement. The process included:
- Safe Removal and Installation: A crane was brought in to lift and remove the failed backflow preventer, ensuring a safe and controlled installation of the new unit.
- Expert Coordination: Our team carefully aligned the new 8-inch backflow preventer with existing system connections, ensuring no leaks were present.
- Rapid Execution: Despite the scale of the project, our team completed the entire replacement in just half a day, fully restoring the fire suppression system’s functionality.
The Results
Thanks to our team’s fast response, Smith Travel Research’s fire suppression system was brought back to full operational status within days of their initial backflow prevention inspection. The new backflow preventer ensures continued compliance with fire safety regulations, providing long-term reliability and peace of mind for the building owner.
