What could be a sign that sprinklers are due for replacement or testing?

The indication that sprinklers have been in service for 50 years is a critical factor in determining their need for replacement or testing. According to NFPA 25, the standard recognizes that many types of sprinklers have a service life of around 50 years. Beyond this timeframe, the performance and reliability of sprinklers may be significantly compromised due to age-related degradation or obsolescence.

While other factors like rust around the sprinkler head, changes in the spray pattern, or increases in water flow rate could suggest a need for maintenance checks, they do not specifically tie to the established performance lifespan of the sprinklers as strongly as age does. This adherence to an established lifespan helps ensure the effectiveness of the sprinkler system in fire protection, making it paramount to monitor the age of the system components diligently.