What is the Role of a Jockey Pump in a Fire Pump System?

In fire protection systems, maintaining consistent water pressure is critical to ensuring readiness in case of an emergency. A jockey pump plays a crucial role in this process by keeping the system pressurized and preventing unnecessary activations of the main fire pump.

Understanding the Jockey Pump’s Function

A jockey pump is a small, auxiliary pump designed to compensate for small pressure drops in the fire sprinkler system. Instead of activating the large electric or diesel fire pump every time there is a minor leak or fluctuation, the jockey pump restores pressure efficiently.

Why Is a Jockey Pump Important?

1. Prevents Main Fire Pump Overuse – The jockey pump handles minor leaks and pressure drops, reducing wear on the primary fire pump.
2. Ensures System Readiness – By maintaining constant pressure, it guarantees the fire system is always primed for operation.
3. Compliance with NFPA 20 – The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA 20) recommends jockey pumps to ensure the reliability of fire suppression systems.
4. Energy & Cost Efficiency – Operating a small jockey pump instead of the main pump lowers energy consumption and reduces maintenance costs.

How Jockey Pumps Work in a Fire Pump System

• When pressure drops slightly, the jockey pump activates and restores the set pressure.
• If a fire occurs and the pressure drops significantly, the fire pump starts automatically to deliver full water flow to the sprinkler system.
• The jockey pump stops once the pressure stabilizes.

Choosing the Right Jockey Pump

Selecting the right jockey pump depends on the system's pressure requirements, flow rate, and compliance standards. It should be sized appropriately to compensate for small leaks without exceeding the fire pump’s minimum pressure settings.

Conclusion

A jockey pump is a vital component of any fire protection system, enhancing efficiency, reducing wear on primary fire pumps, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. Investing in a high-quality jockey pump helps maintain a reliable fire suppression system, ultimately protecting lives and property.