Testing and inspection of fire pumps where applicable

Weekly routines

  • Ensure water storage tank is full prior to testing the pumps.
  • Check oil levels.
  • Check coolant level where applicable.
  • Check fuel level before and after testing and top up where required.
  • Check all pumphouse valves are in the correct orientation.
  • Check battery electrolyte levels and specific gravity.
  • Test jockey pump cut in and cut out pressures via the test facility and record the pressures.
  • Test electric pump cut in pressure and record the pressure.
  • Run pump for a minimum of 10 minutes checking to ensure water is flowing freely from the minimum flow line.
  • Record delivery pressure and visually check pump for leaks, vibration and other defects.
  • Stop pump and restart with manual start if applicable.
  • Stop pump and ensure that supply healthy lamp is illuminated.
  • Test diesel pump cut in pressure and record the pressure.
  • Run pump for a minimum of 30 minutes checking to ensure water is flowing freely from the cooling line/minimum flow line.
  • Monitor engine temperature, oil pressure and cooling system whilst pump is running.
  • Record delivery pressure and visually check pump set for leaks, vibration and other defects.
  • Stop pump and restart with manual start and run for a further 2 minutes.
  • Stop pump and record hours run as detailed on the meter.
  • Ensure that panel and battery chargers are functioning correctly.
  • Check all pumphouse valves are in the correct orientation
  • Please note it is not recommended to leave pumps running whilst unattended.

Monthly routines

  • Check electrolyte level of all batteries.
  • Check battery charging voltage and ensure it has not changed.
  • Check fire pump panels for operation.

Six monthly routines

  • Change diesel engine oil and carry out minor service to pumps.
  • A full flow test on the pumps to nominal duty should be carried out and pressure, flow and engine speed/load current should be recorded.
  • Pump start level switches in header tanks should be tested for correct operation.
  • Secondary electrical supplies from diesel generators or other sources should be tested for correct operation.
  • Carry out major service of pumps – including changing fuel filters, oil filters and engine oil. Air filters should be cleaned.

Annual routines

  • A failed to start test should also be carried out and then the pump should be started manually.
  • Pump suction strainers, settling chambers and screens should be inspected and cleaned if required.
  • Diesel driven fire pumps – replace air cleaner, batteries (not ni-cad) belts, coolant hoses, coolant and thermostat.

Other routines

2 Yearly

  • Diesel driven fire pumps – replace air cleaner, batteries (not ni-cad) belts, coolant hoses, coolant and thermostat.

3 Yearly

  • Pump suction tanks for single supplies – inspected (tanks with no corrosion protection).

4 Yearly

  • Pump suction tanks with corrosion protection inspected.