Sprinkler Frequently Asked Questions
What types of sprinkler heads does the Shutgun work with?
The Shutgun tool works with a wide range of fire sprinkler head types, including:Pendant fire sprinkler heads, Upright fire sprinkler heads, Wall mount sprinkler heads, Semi-recessed sprinkler heads and Concealed and institutional styles with appropriate Shutgun versions
Why should I have a Shutgun tool on hand?
Accidental sprinkler activations are common and many are not caused by actual fires but by bumped or damaged heads, renovations, or everyday impacts. The Shutgun lets you stop water flow in seconds, which can prevent tens of thousands of dollars in water damage that can occur while waiting for the fire department.
Will using Shutgun disable the sprinkler permanently?
No — Shutgun includes a patented fusible link that allows the sprinkler head to reactivate if a fire reignites, maintaining fire safety while stopping unnecessary water discharge.
What happens if a fire starts after I’ve shut off the sprinkler?
The Shutgun’s fusible link will release at approximately 164°F (73°C), allowing the sprinkler to function normally again if needed.
How much water can a leaking or activated sprinkler discharge?
A typical fire sprinkler head can release around 60 gallons of water per minute and fill a standard bathtub in less than a minute. Even a short wait for the fire department can result in hundreds or thousands of gallons of water released.
What are common sprinkler system problems?
Fire sprinkler systems can develop issues over time, such as: Leaks and drips from corrosion or impact damage, Misfires/false activations, Pressure issues that affect performance, Blockages from debris or pests, Corrosion and deterioration of components, and Valve/pump failures due to mechanical wear
How can shut off tools help with sprinkler problems?
Tools like the Shutgun let you deactivate individual sprinkler heads quickly when they misfire or leak, helping prevent costly water damage while repairs are arranged.
Where are fire sprinklers most commonly used?
Fire sprinkler systems are widely installed in commercial buildings, multi-family residential properties, industrial facilities, and increasingly in homes to protect lives and property.
Who usually turns off sprinklers after a fire?
Typically, firefighters will shut off the sprinkler system once the fire is out. But in accidental activations or false alarms, it may take them several minutes to arrive during which a lot of water can be released. Having a Shutgun on site lets you act immediately.
How quickly can water damage escalate after accidental sprinkler activation?
Water can pour out rapidly — even before emergency responders arrive. In as little as 5 minutes, one active sprinkler can discharge hundreds of gallons of water.
Should I keep a Shutgun with every fire extinguisher?
Yes — online resources from Shutgun recommend placing the tool next to fire extinguishers and training staff to use it so you are ready to act immediately in emergencies.
Can Shutgun tools reduce insurance claims or cleanup costs?
How fast do water sprinklers react once triggered?
In most systems, water remains in the piping until needed, leaving the fire sprinkler system “on call”. Sprinklers release water almost instantly.
What temperature sets off a water sprinkler?
In most systems, water remains in the piping until needed, leaving the fire sprinkler system “on call”. Sprinklers release water almost instantly.
What causes fire sprinkler systems to activate?
In most systems, water remains in the piping until needed, leaving the fire sprinkler system “on call”. Sprinklers release water almost instantly.
How much water is released when a fire sprinkler system is activated?
In most systems, water remains in the piping until needed, leaving the fire sprinkler system “on call”. Sprinklers release water almost instantly.
Do all sprinklers activate at once?
In most systems, water remains in the piping until needed, leaving the fire sprinkler system “on call”. Sprinklers release water almost instantly.
What other issues, besides water damage, are caused by fire sprinklers?
In most systems, water remains in the piping until needed, leaving the fire sprinkler system “on call”. Sprinklers release water almost instantly.