Bushfires are a natural part of living in the Australian environment. Every year, bushfires cause damage to millions of hectares of land. They not only affect plant and animal biodiversity but also destroy many homes and properties and cause damage to critical infrastructure. Residential areas close to bushland, forests and coastal scrubs are the most threatened by seasonal bushfires.
On rural and regional properties, a key part of your bushfire preparation plan may include a fire fighting pump. In fact, you may be required to have one on hand along with mandatory water storage requirements. You’ll also need to make sure your pump has sufficient capacity and you’re familiar with how to maintain it.
In many cases, portable fire fighting pumps can utilise water from your swimming pool or water tank in the case of a fire. They aren’t just for bushfires, either – these high-powered pumps are also effective at fighting accidental fires, making them a year-round necessity. Owning a fire fighting pump can help you defend not just your property, but your family as well.
It’s critical to have a bushfire preparation plan in place to keep your property and family safe during bushfire season. This comprehensive guide offers all the information you need about fire fighting pumps.
Table of Contents
What is a Fire Fighting Pump?
A fire fighting pump is an essential component in fire sprinklers, standpipes, water spray, and mist systems. By providing adequate pressure, it can pump out water at an appropriate pressure to tackle a fire, and ensures a consistent and efficient water flow. Typically, fire pumps are connected to a ground-level water supply or local water source such as a well, tank, or body of water. Fire fighting pump kits may be portable or stationary. They can be powered by an electric motor or diesel engine.
Who Needs to Have a Fire Pump?
Fire pumps are primarily used as standard safety equipment in both residential and commercial properties. They help deliver the required amount of water in areas that have no access to ample water supply or where water pressure is not strong enough to extinguish the fire – applicable to many rural and regional areas. Fire pumps are useful in the following scenarios:
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Natural Disasters
Extreme heat during summer and irresponsible disposal of cigarette butts can easily lead to fires, particularly in rural Australia. Fire pumps help ensure there is adequate water pressure and water supply available to protect a property from an encroaching bushfire.
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Multi-Story or High-Rise Buildings
In case a fire breaks out on the upper floors of a building, fire pumps can increase the water pressure in fire protection systems. This enables water to reach the affected areas and douse the flames.
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Warehouses & Storage Areas
Large expanses of properties such as manufacturing warehouses don’t have windows or walls to prevent fires from spreading. These structures need fire pumps to ensure the water pressure is strong enough to supply the area with ample water.
What types of fire fighting pumps are there?
There are different types of fire fighting pumps available on the market. They may vary based on their power source or driving force or their intended use.
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Diesel Fire Fighting Pumps
Diesel fire pumps are used as a backup when the power supply in a facility is unreliable, has insufficient capacity, or in case of a power outage (which is extremely common in bushfire-affected areas). They have an independent power supply system, the battery, which allows the pumps to operate even when disconnected from the primary power supply.
Diesel-powered fire fighting pumps are often used in warehouses, aircraft hangars, and other facilities that have wide open spaces. They are not ideal in properties that have limited space – such as apartments, office buildings, or other vertical structures – because of the gases they emit during operation.
Installing diesel fire pumps can be more expensive than electric varieties, since they need additional components such as exhaust pipes, cooling lines, safety valves, and fuel storage. However, they naturally offer a more reliable power source in case electricity isn’t an option.
In terms of maintenance, diesel fire pumps may require regular inspection. Batteries, oil level, hoses, and the engine must be maintained properly to ensure that they will run smoothly in a disaster scenario.
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Electric Fire Fighting Pumps
Electric fire pumps are often installed in high-rise buildings to increase water pumping capacity beyond normal levels. Some facilities install an additional electric fire pump above the ground or at the basement level to strengthen the water pressure.
In terms of energy costs, using electric fire pumps can increase power bills as they do need electricity to operate. On the upside, electric fire pumps require less frequent maintenance checks and have lower service costs, since they have fewer components compared to diesel fire pumps.
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Single Stage Fire Fighting Pumps
Single-stage fire pumps use a single impeller, or rotor, to increase the pressure and flow rate of water. In this type of fire pump, the water enters then inlet through the impeller then moves outward through the impeller vanes into the volute casing. Single-stage fire pumps can process large volumes of water compared to twin-stage pumps.
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Twin Stage Fire Fighting Pumps
Twin stage fire fighting pumps are designed with two impellers that allow switching between pressure and volume modes. The impellers may be mounted to a single shaft or separately.
Compared to single-stage fire fighting pumps, twin stage fire pumps have higher upfront costs, but maintenance costs are lower, and they suffer from less wear-and-tear.
What Size of Fire Fighting Pump Do I Need?
When choosing the right fire fighting pump, the size is absolutely critical. You need to ensure the pump is capable of delivering the required water pressure and liquid flow reliably in case of a fire. Calculating the size of a fire fighting pump depends on different factors, which include viscosity (in case of multiple applications), power consumption, life cycle cost, and the size and layout of the building.
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Fire Fighting Pump Calculation
The pressure requirement, measurable by gallons per minute (GPM), determines the size of a fire pump. There are two commonly used methods for calculating pump pressure requirements.
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Standpipe Method
The standpipe method uses the number of standpipes the sprinkler system has in calculating the size of the fire pump. It is commonly used in small buildings and properties. Based on the standard, the first standpipe in a building must maintain a pressure rating of 500 GPM, while any additional standpipe must maintain a pressure rating of 250 GPM. The entire system must maintain a pressure rating of 1000 GPM.
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Sprinkler Area Method
The Sprinkler Area Method involves analysing the sprinkler hazard levels of the building in calculating pressure requirements and design density of the pump. It can be more complicated than the standpipe method, but it is more effective for large structures, especially if they contain combustible materials or flammable liquids. For buildings with different sprinkler hazard levels, the highest hazard classification will dictate the size of the pump.
What Is The Best Fire Fighting Pump For My Needs?
There are many varieties of fire fighting pump kits sold on the market today. When selecting a fire pump, you need to look for one that has powerful pressure capabilities, above and beyond most standard household pumps. It must also address your circumstance or requirement.
Fire Fighting Pump Kits
Some of the most popular models of fire fighting pump kits are the following:
The Aussie Pumps Mr T model fire fighting pump kits are ideal if you are looking for a lightweight and portable, but high-pressure and high-flow unit. This model is designed with a genuine Honda GX270 9 HP petrol motor, marine-grade aluminium twin impellers and easy-pull recoil start. It delivers an extremely reliable 500 LPM open flow and water pressure of 135 psi. This fire pump kit has a strong steel mounting frame, but it is compact and lightweight, weighing only 57 kilograms.
The Aussie Fireman model is designed for light applications where the engine does not have to run continuously for long periods. This unit uses a Honda GP engine with a recoil start. It also has a heavy-duty closed impeller, a 450 LPM max, a big belly body for fast priming and performance, and a big drain port for quick draining. It also comes with free skids (with rubber feet) and a carry handle for easy transport.
The Bianco Vulcan Firefighter pump is suitable for many applications including fire protection, water transfer, tank filling, irrigation and crop spraying. This model features a custom-built frame and a single-cylinder, 4-stroke, forced air-cooled OHV engine. It has a flow rate of 330 LPM and a suction of 6m/120s. The fire pump also comes with a spark arrestor, low-oil level sensor and anti-skid, rubber mounting feet.
Davey fire fighting pumps offer the flexibility to draw out water from a water source when power is not available. This unit is a self-priming petrol pump with a single-stage pump that delivers a high flow rate at a strong pressure. It has a 4-way discharge port, recoil start, low-oil protection sensor and patented clamp impeller design that enables longer impeller service life and easier disassembly in case of blockage. This model is ideal for fire fighting, water transfer, irrigation, boom spraying and sheep jetting applications.
Fire Fighting Pump Accessories
Fire fighting pump accessories are additional components fitted to a fire pump kit to make a complete functioning system.
Hoses For Fire Fighting Pumps
Fire fighting hoses come in various types and sizes, each one designed for a specific purpose. Below are some of the common categories of hoses used in fire fighting.
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Suction Hose
A suction hose connects a fire department’s pump to a portable pump or an unpressurised water source, like ponds and rivers. Also referred to as a hard-suction hose, a suction hose is semi-rigid, covered in rubber and has metal reinforcements.
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Attack Hose
An attack hose transfers or sprays water or other agents at an increased pressure of up to 400 psi. It is typically fabric-covered and flexible. It has a diameter ranging from 19mm and up, and is available in varying lengths.
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Supply Hose
This type of hose is needed when the fire tank’s water supply is not sufficient to extinguish the fire and thus needs continuous replenishment from a water source. Supply hoses have a large diameter.
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Booster Hose
A booster hose is typically used in extinguishing small fires. It features a round cross-section when not under pressure. It is flexible, covered in rubber, and has thick walls. It also comes in a reel, rather than being stored flat. A booster hose usually operates at up to 800 psi.
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Forestry Hose
A forestry house is a lightweight, flexible, fabric-covered hose used in fighting fires in areas covered with grass, brush and trees. It operates at a psi of up to 450.
Trolleys/Trailers For Fire Fighting Pumps
Trolleys, carts or trailers make it easier to transport fire pump kits from one location to another. They may also be used as storage when your fire hose is not in use. When purchasing a fire fighting pump cart or trolley, choose one which features a sturdy frame, pneumatic wheels and ergonomic handles as these features will ensure ease of maneuvering and long service life.
Fire Fighting Pump Installation
Fire fighting pump installation must comply with the technical requirements of Australian Standard AS 2941-2013. The standard sets the minimum requirements that must be complied with for the design, manufacture, installation and testing of various types of fire fighting pumps, including the installation of stationary fire fighting pumps, used in fire protection systems.
Following the standard ensures that the fire pump set will perform effectively and reliably and protect lives and assets in the event of an actual emergency. All fire contractors, certifiers, builders and facilities managers are responsible for ensuring compliance with the requirements of AS 2941-2013. In addition to complying with AS 2941-2013, fire fighting pump installation must also follow the international standards in fire protection set by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).
In the case of transportable fire pumps, they are either installed on fire fighting vehicles as integrated or front-mounted pumps. They may also be used as portable fire pumps which can be set up close to a water source to minimise the effort needed in drawing out water and maximise water flow through the fire hose.
If you have a water tank, swimming pool, or there is a nearby body of water, it would be ideal to have a diesel-powered fire pump nearby because it does not need electricity to pump out water. Your fire fighting pump kit must also come with a suction hose that will draw out water from the water source and a delivery hose that will deliver the water to the fire.
How to Use a Fire Fighting Pump
How you operate a fire fighting pump depends on the type of fire fighting pump kit you have.
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Electric Fire Fighting Pumps
Electric fire fighting pumps are typically installed in buildings and structures that have limited space or multiple floors and are connected to the building’s sprinkler system. Electric fire pump models may be operated manually, automatically or remotely via SMS. Some models also have heat sensors.
When the sprinkler system detects heat and a drop in pressure below the threshold, electric fire pumps will start running. Ideally, the electric fire pumps must be independent of the primary power grid. They must have a transfer switch that directs power over to a backup generator because fire or explosion may cut off electricity in the mains.
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Diesel Fire Fighting Pumps
Diesel-powered fire fighting pumps are ideal in wide open spaces like farms, warehouses, refineries, marine vessels and drilling rigs. They are also suitable in areas where fire trucks cannot respond. They run on fuel and have a built-in battery as their main power source. Some models are designed with a recoil start, which makes them easier and faster to operate.
Fire Fighting Pump Maintenance
Fire fighting pumps are a piece of essential life-saving equipment. It is important to make sure that they can operate efficiently and can supply the needed amount of water in the absence of sufficient water pressure and water supply.
Establishing a regular inspection, testing and maintenance program will ensure that your fire fighting pump performs its critical function during an emergency.
Weekly maintenance checks
- Check valves and pipes for blockages and leaks.
- Test the automatic start function. Allow time for the motor to accelerate at full speed.
- For diesel fire fighting pumps, run the engine for at least 30 minutes to allow components to warm up and stabilize. Doing this will remove moisture and condensation that can affect the lifespan of the engine components.
- For electric fire fighting pumps, check the operation of starting components and run the pump for at least 10 minutes.
- Check for any unusual noise or vibration while the pump is running.
- Inspect the pump controller’s alarm conditions and if it is in automatic start mode. If it has a remote function, verify if it receives remoting monitoring alarms during the automatic start test.
- Inspect relief valves to ensure it does not have water flowing through. The relief valves’ primary purpose is to maintain the pressure at the designed rate in case the pump experiences an overspeed or water supply pressure from the public water supply increases.
- Check for leakage or water flow in the pump cooling system. Slight moisture or leakage is normal as it needs lubrication and cooling.
- Check the water supply for any obstructions. During cold months, make sure heat is applied to the supply lines and suction source. In dry conditions or hot weather, verify if there is a sufficient water supply.
- If the fire pump is stored in a pump room, ensure that the minimum temperature of 4 degrees Celsius is maintained.
- Additional checks for diesel engines:
- Fuel tanks must be kept at least three-quarters full; otherwise, the tank should be refilled.
- Battery and charger must be operating properly.
- Clean the strainer in the cooling system.
- Check oil level in the crankcase using a dipstick.
- Make sure valves are in the open position.
Monthly maintenance checks
- Inspect the diesel engine’s battery electrolyte.
- Check for corrosion.
- Verify if cable lines and connections are in good condition.
Annual maintenance checks
- Run a full water flow test. Check and record water flow measurements, pressure readings, discharge readings and suction readings.
- Check pump cooling alignment and lubrication.
- For diesel engines, perform the following checks:
- Check for obstructions or foreign material in the fuel tank. Inspect condition of tank level switches, valves, strainers, piping, hose lines and connectors.
- Change oil and filter, regardless of the frequency and number of hours the pump has been used.
- Check the cooling system’s antifreeze level/quality, heat exchanger, water pump, water strainer, jacket water heater, high water temperature switch and cooling water solenoid valve operation. Clean or replace any component, if necessary.
- Inspect exhaust system for leakage, condensate or excessive backpressure.
- Check the battery’s charger and charge rate.
- Inspect the intake or ventilation system’s air filter and room louver operation for any obstruction.
What Other Uses Does A Fire Fighting Pump Have?
In addition to fire protection, fire fighting pumps are used in different industries and many other applications. Investing in a fire fighting pump means gaining a handy piece of equipment that’s suitable for day-to-day use as long as it’s well-maintained. Anyone in the agricultural field will find countless uses for a high-powered pump around their property.
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Irrigation Systems
Fire pumps are also an essential part of farm fire fighting equipment. Not only are they useful in fire protection, but they also help provide sufficient water supply to fields and trees. Fire pumps can also be used in boom spraying or spraying low-growing crops and weeds or in washing down machinery. They help control the use of water, allowing farmers to save on power and water costs.
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Water Transfer
Portable fire pumps help transfer water from one location to another. They can be used in transferring water from tanker to tanker or to high-head applications.
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Sheep Jetting
Using fire pumps in sheep jetting gets the job done faster and more efficiently versus hand jetting. Fire pumps also limit the exposure of the fire pump operator to harmful insecticides.
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Aquaculture
Fire fighting pumps are used in supplying water in controlled aquatic environments for the breeding and farming of marine species such as fish, shrimps and seaweeds.
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Cleaning & Disinfecting
Many industries use fire fighting pumps in general cleaning and disinfection of facilities. Some commercial fire pumps models are built to handle and transfer chemical agents and may be equipped with chemical-grade hoses.
Related Questions
What are the fire fighting water storage requirements in Australia?
In places where bushfires are common, homeowners must legally have a water supply available on their property. The amount of water supply can vary by state or council, so it’s best to check with your local fire department to be certain. However, we’ve summarised the most common water storage requirements below:
- Properties must separately store water allocated for fire fighting in a water retention tank. Swimming pools are accepted as water storage, but water tanks are highly recommended.
- Properties with less than 500 square meters must have a minimum water supply of 2,500 litres.
- Rural properties more than one hectare in size must have at least 20,000 litres of water.
- High-risk areas must have an allocation of a minimum of 22,000 litres of water.
- There must be an appropriate hose connection to the water tank for attaching hoses.
- If the property uses a single water tank for fire fighting and domestic use, it must have two separate outlets.
- Diesel or petrol fire fighting pumps are recommended as electricity may be cut off during a fire.
- The water tank must be in an area that is easily accessible to firefighters.
What kind of water tank is suitable for fire fighting?
Fire protection water tanks may be built above ground or underground.
If your water retention tank is located above-ground, it must be made from non-combustible and corrosion-resistant material, and not plastic. Otherwise, the extreme heat and fire can warp and destroy your water tank.
Underground water tanks are recommended as they are less expensive to install and they can also collect rainwater runoff. Most fire departments recommend using fibreglass water tanks for underground water storage systems.
Disclaimer:
This article is published for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Any action you take upon the information you find on this website is strictly at your own risk. Always ensure you have the right qualifications and certifications to carry out DIY work and never put your safety at risk. Hills Irrigation recommends consulting a professional for all electrical and plumbing work.
Vince is Managing Director of Hills Irrigation and is supported by Lisa in an administrative capacity. Andrew, Isaac and Megan look after the day to day needs of both online and shop customers. As Project Manager, Vince is also responsible for installation projects along with his team. It is his responsibility to work closely with clients to ensure that scope of work is understood and followed.
