What are pre-action sprinkler systems primarily used for?

Pre-action sprinkler systems are specifically designed for environments where water damage can be particularly detrimental. These systems require a two-step process for activation, which involves the detection of heat or smoke before releasing water into the piping system. This crucial feature makes them ideal for environments that contain sensitive equipment or valuable items, such as data centers, art galleries, or museums.

By utilizing a pre-action system, these spaces can minimize the risk of water damage often associated with traditional sprinkler systems that may discharge water indiscriminately at the first sign of a fire. This added layer of protection is essential for safeguarding sensitive electronic equipment and important documents from both smoke and water damage, which can severely impact operations and finances in case of an incident.