Introduction
Regular inspection and testing of fire pump controller systems are essential for ensuring emergency response readiness, fire protection system reliability, and compliance with NFPA standards. This comprehensive checklist helps fire safety professionals evaluate controller functionality, verify operational parameters, and ensure proper performance during fire emergencies.
By following this fire pump controller checklist as part of your routine fire safety maintenance program, you can identify potential issues before they affect system performance, document compliance with regulatory requirements, and ensure the fire protection system operates as designed during critical emergency situations. The checklist aligns with NFPA 20, NFPA 25, and other applicable standards for fire pump systems in commercial and industrial applications.
System Information
Critical Safety Tips for Fire Pump Controllers
- Never Disable Automatic Mode: Fire pump controllers must always remain in automatic mode to ensure the pump will start during a fire emergency. Only disable for testing under controlled conditions.
- Document Transfer Switch Tests: For facilities with backup power sources, verify and document the automatic transfer switch operates correctly during power failures.
- Alert Building Personnel Before Testing: Notify appropriate personnel before conducting fire pump tests to prevent confusion with actual emergencies and avoid disruption to water supply.
- Test With Building Load Isolated: When possible, isolate the building load during full flow tests to prevent damage to sprinkler systems while maintaining test accuracy.
- Maintain Detailed Test Records: Maintain comprehensive testing records as required by NFPA 25, including all startup times, pressure readings, and flow rates during tests.
NFPA Standard References
This checklist aligns with the following NFPA standards that govern fire pump controller inspection, testing, and maintenance:
- NFPA 20: Standard for the Installation of Stationary Pumps for Fire Protection
- NFPA 25: Standard for the Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems
- NFPA 70: National Electrical Code (for electrical connections)
- NFPA 110: Standard for Emergency and Standby Power Systems (when applicable)
Always refer to the most current editions of these standards and any applicable local codes or AHJ requirements.
Visual Inspection
Power Supply & Electrical
Controller Indicators & Alarms
Starting & Control Circuits
Operational Tests
For Diesel Controllers
Documentation & Records
System Interface Connections
Detailed Testing Procedures
Follow these structured procedures to ensure thorough testing of your fire pump controller system. Adapt these steps to your specific system configuration and regulatory requirements.
Automatic Start Test Procedure
- Notify monitoring company before starting test
- Verify controller is in automatic position
- Close main drain to simulate pressure drop
- Record starting pressure when pump activates
- Verify pump starts within 10 seconds
- Allow pump to run for minimum run time
- Close drain and allow system to recover pressure
- Verify pump shuts down automatically (if applicable)
- Record test results in log
Power Transfer Test Procedure
- Notify building personnel of upcoming test
- Record normal power supply voltage readings
- Simulate power failure at main disconnect
- Verify transfer switch activates within specified time
- Confirm emergency power supply activates
- Start fire pump using emergency power
- Record voltage and current readings
- Restore normal power and verify re-transfer
- Document test results per NFPA requirements
Alarm Circuit Verification
- Identify all alarm circuits to be tested
- Notify monitoring company of pending tests
- Activate each alarm condition individually
- Verify local audible and visual alarms function
- Confirm signal receipt at monitoring station
- Test alarm silence and reset functions
- Verify phase reversal alarm by simulating condition
- Test power failure alarm by removing power
- Document all alarm circuit test results
Diesel Controller Battery Test
- Check and record battery electrolyte levels
- Measure and record battery voltage (should be 12V/24V)
- Disconnect AC power to charger
- Initiate first start cycle, note which battery is used
- Allow engine to run for 5 minutes
- Stop engine and initiate second start
- Verify alternating battery usage
- Reconnect charger and verify charging current
- Document each battery's performance
Inspection Progress
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Deficiencies & Corrective Actions
Inspection & Testing Schedule
These guidelines outline recommended inspection and testing frequencies to ensure the ongoing reliability and compliance of your fire pump controller system. Following these schedules helps maintain emergency response readiness and regulatory compliance.
Weekly Inspection
- Verify controller is in automatic position
- Check power indicator lights
- Confirm no alarm conditions are present
- Inspect for any physical damage
- Check diesel controller battery voltage readings
- Verify fuel level adequate (diesel pump)
- Document weekly check in logbook
Monthly Testing
- Perform automatic pressure start test
- Test manual start operation
- Run pump for minimum 10 minutes
- Record discharge pressure and flow readings
- Check for unusual noises or vibrations
- Test alarm circuits and signals
- Check diesel controller battery charger
- Document all test results
Annual Testing
- Conduct full flow test through test header
- Verify power transfer switch operation
- Test all starting means (6 for diesel)
- Calibrate pressure sensors and transducers
- Check all electrical connections for tightness
- Test all controller protection features
- Test emergency power systems
- Complete comprehensive controller inspection
- Document all test results per NFPA 25
5-Year Testing (When Required)
- Perform trip curve analysis
- Check all controller internal components
- Conduct insulation resistance test
- Perform infrared scan of electrical connections
- Test all overcurrent protection devices
- Complete flow test at three points on curve
- Update firmware/software if applicable
- Document all test results with certified report
Conclusion
Implementing this comprehensive Fire Pump Controller Checklist is essential for maintaining emergency response readiness, ensuring system reliability, and complying with NFPA standards. By systematically inspecting and testing fire pump controller systems, facility managers and fire safety professionals can identify potential issues before they affect system performance during critical fire emergencies.
For optimal fire pump controller management, consider implementing the Oxmaint software to streamline your fire safety inspections. The Oxmaint platform allows digital documentation of controller inspections, provides real-time alerts for maintenance requirements, and creates comprehensive historical records for regulatory compliance. With the Oxmaint APP, facility managers can easily track inspection schedules, monitor system performance, and ensure all fire protection components are properly tested and maintained.
Make fire pump controller inspections an integral part of your fire safety program with the Oxmaint software's comprehensive inspection management solution. Whether for NFPA compliance, insurance requirements, or life safety assurance, this digital approach significantly improves inspection thoroughness and documentation while reducing administrative burden on fire safety personnel.
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