How often should fire pump relief valves be tested?

The testing of fire pump relief valves on an annual basis is essential for ensuring that they function properly when needed. This frequency aligns with NFPA 25 guidelines, which stipulate that relief valves must be tested at least once per year to verify their operational status. Regular testing helps identify any issues such as leaks, corrosion, or mechanical failures that could compromise the system's effectiveness during a fire emergency.

Annual testing ensures that maintenance practices are in place to keep the relief valves in good working condition. By conducting these tests regularly, any discrepancies can be managed proactively, ensuring that the fire pump and its components work reliably when the situation demands them.

Other potential frequencies, such as monthly testing, may not be practical or necessary given that annual testing provides a sufficient balance between safety and resource allocation. Testing every five years could lead to detrimental delays in discovering and addressing potential failures. Testing only when the pump is activated does not allow for routine checks that can catch minor issues before they lead to malfunctions during a real emergency. Therefore, annual testing of fire pump relief valves is the correct and most effective practice as outlined by the NFPA standards.