In any fire protection system, the fire pump plays a vital role in delivering sufficient water pressure and flow during an emergency. But simply having a fire pump isn't enough—it must be properly sized. Incorrect sizing can lead to system failure, safety hazards, and non-compliance with fire safety regulations like NFPA 20.
Fire pump sizing involves calculating the right flow rate (GPM or L/min) and pressure (PSI or bar) required to meet the demands of the building’s fire protection system. These demands vary based on the type of occupancy, building height, pipe friction loss, and the layout of sprinklers and hydrants.
An undersized fire pump cannot deliver enough water flow or pressure during a fire emergency. This could result in:
Inadequate sprinkler performance
Inability to reach upper floors in high-rise buildings
Non-compliance with NFPA and local fire codes
Risk to life and property
In worst-case scenarios, the entire system may fail when it’s needed most.
It’s a common misconception that “bigger is better.” Oversizing a fire pump leads to:
Increased energy consumption
Higher installation and maintenance costs
Risk of water hammer and pipe damage
Overpressure, potentially damaging system components
A correctly sized fire pump balances performance, efficiency, and safety.
System Demand
Calculate peak demand based on the hazard classification of the building and occupancy type.
Hydraulic Calculation
Assess friction losses in piping, elevation differences, and terminal pressure requirements.
Water Supply Source
Whether it's from a tank, reservoir, or city mains, the supply affects pump selection.
Compliance with NFPA 20
Always adhere to NFPA 20 standards and local fire codes during selection and installation.
Future Expansion Considerations
Consider potential future system upgrades or building modifications.
At Better Technology Group, we specialize in manufacturing UL listed, NFPA 20 compliant fire pumps, customized for your unique application. Whether it's an electric fire pump, diesel fire pump, or vertical turbine pump, we help you size it right—ensuring optimal performance and full compliance.
