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Dry fire sprinkler heads are specialty sprinklers with a sealed barrel that prevents:
They’re often used to extend a wet pipe system into areas subject to freezing—like loading docks and commercial freezer rooms—without turning the entire system into a dry pipe system. In dry systems, they’re also required in certain orientations (pendent or sidewall) unless specific measures are taken (i.e., return bends and climate control).
Buying the right dry sprinkler head depends on selecting the proper barrel length, in addition to the needed performance characteristics, and following specific manufacturer and NFPA rules for installations and applications.
Performance and compliance hinge on ordering the correct barrel length (often called the “A dimension,” “B dimension,” or “order length,” depending on the manufacturer). In addition to selecting a barrel length to avoid obstructions or sufficiently penetrate a surface, NFPA 13 also mandates minimum exposed lengths by ambient temperature and surrounding conditions for sprinklers that project into freezing spaces. You can read this blog for additional information on selecting and measuring barrel length.
Ordering the wrong barrel length can prevent proper installation and possibly operation. It can also be costly, as dry sprinklers are typically custom orders that are not returnable.
To get the correct dry fire sprinkler head, choose a model with the specific performance characteristics indicated by the system’s design, including orientation (pendent/sidewall/upright), response type (standard or quick response), K-factor, temperature rating, and coverage type (extended or standard coverage).
Choose a finish, whether the sprinkler will have an escutcheon, and the correct barrel length based on your application and construction dimensions. Manufacturers use slightly different measuring conventions (e.g., where to measure to the deflector vs. base), so confirm the ordering method on the model’s data sheet or other manufacturer documentation.
QRFS offers dry sprinkler heads from major manufacturers while also providing expert support, fast shipping, and exceptional customer service. To order dry heads, there are two options:
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What is a dry sprinkler head?
A dry barrel sprinkler has an extended barrel that allows the operating elements of the sprinkler head to protect areas subject to freezing while connecting back to water-filled piping, often in a heated space. Unlike a regular fire sprinkler, it is built so water does not sit in the portion exposed to freezing temperatures during normal conditions. Longer barrels also prevent heat loss from a heated space containing water-filled supply pipes. This makes dry sprinklers useful for places like freezers, loading docks, exterior overhangs, and other cold spaces using wet systems in otherwise heated structures. They are also sometimes used in portions of dry systems, subject to specific conditions.
How does a dry sprinkler head work?
Dry sprinkler heads contain a sealed barrel that often extends into an unheated space. When the sprinkler activates due to heat, it releases a spring and a seal, allowing water to flow through the barrel and discharge from the sprinkler head.
Where are dry sprinkler heads used?
Dry sprinkler heads are commonly used in areas exposed to freezing temperatures, such as exterior canopies, loading docks, walk-in freezers, and unheated warehouses. They are employed in wet systems when sprinklers must pass from heated to unheated spaces. They are also sometimes used in pendent and sidewall orientations in dry systems, when a specific layout calls for those orientations.
Why is barrel length important for dry sprinkler heads?
Barrel length is important for several reasons: it helps limit heat transfer between warm and cold spaces, reduces the risk of condensation and freezing inside the sprinkler, and ensures the internal seal (and water-filled supply pipe) stays on the warm side of the installation. The barrel length also determines whether the sprinkler is correctly positioned for proper deflector placement and code compliance. Choosing the correct length is essential for reliable operation and compliance.
What is the difference between a dry sprinkler and a dry pipe system?
A dry sprinkler is a sprinkler head with a built-in mechanism to keep water out of a barrel and the sprinkler head exposed to freezing temperatures. A dry pipe system, on the other hand, uses pressurized air or nitrogen throughout most of the piping network. Dry barrel sprinklers are often installed on otherwise wet systems to protect specific cold areas, and sometimes within dry systems when sidewall or pendent orientations are needed.
How do I choose the correct dry sprinkler length?
The length of a dry sprinkler is based on the distance it must span from the heated space to the protected area, as well as the specific length NFPA 13 requires based on ambient temperatures and necessary heat-loss prevention. It’s important to measure accurately. Each manufacturer has specific rules and terms for the measurements that determine the barrel lengths on their sprinklers. Always review the manufacturer's specific documents; you can also read this blog for a useful summary.
What fittings should be used to install dry sprinkler heads?
Dry sprinkler heads are typically installed in threaded fittings, including threaded iron tees or listed CPVC adapters designed for this purpose. These fittings allow the sprinkler inlet to fully engage without obstruction, protecting the internal seal and ensuring proper operation. Always follow the sprinkler manufacturer’s installation requirements.
Why are threaded tees recommended for dry sprinkler installations?
Threaded tees provide a clear, unobstructed path that allows the dry sprinkler to seat properly within the fitting. This helps maintain the integrity of the internal seal and prevents water or sediment from collecting around it. Proper engagement also supports reliable performance during activation.
Which fittings should NOT be used to install dry sprinkler heads, and why?
Dry sprinkler heads should not be installed in mechanical tees, grooved outlets, elbows, or other fittings that obstruct the inlet or prevent full thread engagement. These fittings can interfere with the sprinkler’s internal seal and prevent proper drainage. Trapped water can freeze, leading to damage, leaks, or inspection failures. Only use specific fittings approved and detailed by the manufacturer.
Are dry sprinkler heads more expensive than standard sprinklers?
Dry sprinkler heads typically cost more than non-dry sprinkler heads due to their extended barrel and internal sealing components. However, they are essential for protecting areas where freezing is a concern, and NFPA 13 rules mandate them.