As winter ends, it’s time to inspect and maintain fire hydrants. At Pacific Flow Control, we know how crucial hydrants are for public safety and property protection. Here’s why spring hydrant testing matters and how we can help.
The Importance of Fire Hydrant Maintenance
Fire hydrants are the backbone of fire suppression systems, supplying the water needed to combat fires effectively. However, exposure to harsh winter conditions can lead to rust, corrosion, and mechanical issues. Spring hydrant testing helps assess their condition, address any damage, and ensure they function optimally when needed most.
Why Test and Inspect Fire Hydrants Each Spring?
- Safety Assurance – Regular testing confirms hydrants are fully operational and ready for emergencies, enhancing public safety and property protection.
- Preventative Maintenance – Detect and address issues caused by winter weather before they lead to failures.
- Regulatory Compliance – Routine inspections ensure adherence to local, provincial, and federal regulations, preventing fines and legal issues.
- Optimal Performance – Testing maintains proper water flow and pressure levels for effective firefighting.
- Identifying Maintenance Needs – Inspections uncover necessary repairs, lubrication, or part replacements, extending hydrant lifespan and reducing long-term costs.
- Community Preparedness – Regular testing reassures residents and businesses that emergency response systems are well-maintained.
- Risk Reduction – Identifying potential problems early minimizes the chance of failure during critical situations.
- Water Quality Monitoring – Flushing hydrants removes stagnant water and sediment, promoting better water quality.
- Professional Responsibility – Municipalities and fire departments are accountable for ensuring fire protection systems remain reliable.
- Emergency Preparedness Planning – Spring testing provides valuable data for fire departments to optimize response strategies.
Annual hydrant flow testing is mandatory in most cities, towns, and municipalities across British Columbia and Alberta. The NFPA 25 standard recommends maintenance in both spring and fall, while NFPA 291 calls for annual flow testing. We also advise a comprehensive inspection every three years, including full disassembly for lubrication and damage assessment.
Every hydrant inspection follows M17 and NFPA standards, with a detailed report provided afterward. This report includes hydrant pressure, GPS location, condition assessment, and recommended actions, complete with photographic evidence. If we discover an inoperable hydrant, we’ll promptly inform you and recommend the necessary steps to restore functionality.
Spring Hydrant Testing with Pacific Flow Control
At Pacific Flow Control, we specialize in thorough hydrant testing and maintenance. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Industry Expertise – Our team consists of seasoned professionals with extensive experience in fire hydrant maintenance and repair.
- Comprehensive Services – We provide testing, inspections, repairs, winterization, and more.
- Timely and Reliable – We prioritize quick response times and efficient service to keep your hydrants ready for action.
- Cutting-Edge Technology – Our use of advanced tools ensures high-quality service and customer satisfaction.
We maintain, repair, paint, inspect, and test over 5,000 hydrants annually, working with brands like Clow, Mueller, McAvity, Terminal City (TC), and AVK.
Our reporting process is the best in the industry. Once hydrant work is complete, you’ll receive digital reports in PDF format, named with your hydrant numbers, service details, and completion dates. We also offer CSV exports for direct upload into asset management systems like ArcGIS, CityWorks, or SCADA.
Spring is the ideal time to prioritize hydrant maintenance. With Pacific Flow Control, you can trust that your hydrants are in expert hands. Ensure the safety and reliability of your fire suppression systems—contact us today to schedule your spring hydrant testing and gain peace of mind with professional service.
