What type of sprinkler system is recommended for cold climates?

A dry pipe system is the recommended choice for cold climates due to its design and operational characteristics. In these systems, the pipes are filled with pressurized air rather than water, which prevents water from freezing within the pipes during extremely low temperatures.

When a fire occurs, the pressurized air is released, allowing the water to flow into the system from a separate source, thereby activating the sprinklers. This design is particularly advantageous in unheated areas such as attics or warehouses, where temperatures may drop below freezing.

In contrast, a wet pipe system would have water readily available in the pipes, which can lead to freezing and system failure in cold weather. Pre-action systems, while useful for certain applications, also contain water in pipes but require an initial action to fill them with water upon detection of a fire. Deluge systems are designed for high-hazard areas with a large output of water and are typically used in industrial settings; they are not suited for environments where freezing might occur.

Therefore, the dry pipe system is the safest and most effective choice for protecting structures in cold climates.