External Sprinkler Main
HYDRO’s expertise and attention to detail ensured a successful installation of the fire sprinkler systems.
Dean Sheridon
Site Manager
Persimmon Homes
5,000+ installations
Full service from feasibility to final testing
5,000+ installations
The quality, reliability, and professionalism of the Hydro team were second to none. They are an excellent example of a subcontractor in the industry.
Dean Sheridon
Site Manager
Persimmon Homes
What our service includes
Full system design: Expertly engineered solutions for external sprinkler mains, ensuring compliance with industry standards and optimised performance
Drawing reviews: In-depth review of local water authority and highway drawings, identifying potential restrictions or requirements to ensure seamless project execution
Pump sizing and selection: Accurate specification and selection of pumps to meet the demands of your sprinkler system
GRP housing design: Custom-designed and durable GRP housings to protect critical system components
Complete installation: Professional installation services, executed with precision and efficiency
Chlorination and testing: Thorough chlorination and system testing upon completion to ensure safety and compliance
By addressing every aspect of your external sprinkler main needs, from initial feasibility through to final testing, Hydro provides a hassle-free and reliable solution tailored to your project.
Key features of our service
Remote monitoring
Comprehensive reporting
Proactive maintenance
24/7 support and rapid response


















Why HYDRO?
- Complies with BS9251:2021 Standards
- Systems that are proven to prevent fire and fatalities
- Controlled activation limits water damage
- Full design-to-installation service
- 360 value proposition covering internal and external works
- Enhanced safety standards and testing
- Without delay, commissioning documentation
- PartB Certified to ensure compliance
- IFC certified for reliability & quality
How we've helped protect homes
- Harris Evolution
Student accommodation block in Bristol
The Hydro process
- Full H&S reports including quality risk assessments and management
- Daily progress reports with photos & video provided
- Regular updates against main contractor construction programme
- End of week delivery synopsis
- Electronic test certificates
- Electronic commissioning reports
- Compliance approval for every installation
FAQs
How does the sprinkler system work?
Residential and domestic sprinklers systems are permanently charged with water. The sprinkler heads are made up of a plug, a bulb/ fusible link, a deflector plate and a cover plate.
As the heat builds near to a sprinkler head it must reach 57°c+ before the cover plate falls away revealing the sprinkler head. As the temperature increases further to 68°c+, the bubble in the bulb expands breaking the glass or the solder melts on the fusible link (depending on the head type) releasing the plug and allowing the water to flow.
Sprinklers for this application are mechanically heat activated only so false alarms do not happen.
How long does installation take?
This depends on the size of a system. As a rough guide, a small 3-bedroom house (new build) would take 2 days. With installation, most of the work is undertaken at what we call ‘first fix’ which is installing the pipe and heads while we have access to the ceiling/floor voids.
Once all the pipework and heads are installed, we pressure test to ensure the integrity of the pipework. Much later in the project we return for second fix. This involves cover plates for the heads (after decoration is finished) and the system delivery equipment (mains connection/ pump and tank).
Lastly it’s commission time – we carry out a flow and pressure on the installed system to ensure it meets the design requirements.
Can you retrofit a fire sprinkler into homes?
Yes, but this will extend the installation time and may require additional work, such as redecoration, plastering, or boxing in, which would not be included in our scope.
How much does a sprinkler system cost?
The cost of installing a fire sprinkler system can vary based on the system type, risk category, installation method, and the number of sprinkler heads required. For example, a new-build 3-bedroom house may cost approximately £2,400 for a mains-fed system. Contact us for a free quotation.
Protect lives & property with confidence
Contact us for a no-obligation chat to discuss using Hydro in your next home or residential construction project.