What consequence may result from an improperly designed sprinkler system?

An improperly designed sprinkler system can significantly heighten the risk of fire damage due to various factors. If the system is inadequate in terms of coverage, water pressure, or sprinkler head placement, certain areas may not receive sufficient water in the event of a fire. This can lead to a failure to suppress or control the flames effectively, allowing the fire to spread more rapidly. Additionally, poorly designed systems might not activate at the right moment or might not deliver the necessary volume of water to extinguish the fire, resulting in greater damage to property and potentially putting lives at risk.

In contrast, options such as increased water consumption, lower installation costs, and more efficient water usage do not directly relate to the consequences of an improper design in terms of fire safety. An efficient system would actually aim to limit water usage while maximizing effectiveness, and while installation costs might be lower with poor design, the long-term implications for safety and property protection far outweigh any initial cost savings.