You may be wondering about the advantages and disadvantages of different firefighting agents. iMist are here to answer those questions for you.
| Water Mist Fire Suppression | Fire Sprinklers |
|---|---|
| Water mist fire systems require less water than fire sprinklers, on average 80% less. Therefore, water mist is more environmentally friendly, as the iMist nozzle requires an average of 6 litres per minute (lpm). Less water means our iMist pump(s) can fit in the most convenient places, such as under the stairs or under the kitchen sink. | Fire sprinklers require more water, a minimum of 51 lpm per sprinkler. Sprinklers usually require a tank to be installed in your property, meaning you could be losing expensive floor space. |
| Water mist particles evaporate quickly and less water is dispensed, so water mist systems cause less damage if the system activates, at an average of 0.375 mm per minute. | Fire sprinklers dispense 2.04 mm of water per minute, which causes more water damage compared with water mist. |
| Water mist systems combat all 3 sides of the fire triangle by suppressing oxygen, heat and fuel. The most common cause of death in fire-related fatalities in 2017/18, where the cause was known, was ‘overcome by gas or smoke’ (30%), which water mist minimises. | Sprinkler systems suppress fires by wetting the fuel surface. |
| The cost of a water mist system includes labour, pipework, nozzles and pump(s). At iMist there are no hidden costs or sudden surprises. Once you approve our quotation, this is the price you will pay. | With fire sprinklers, you may need to buy and install additional systems to comply, such as water connections running under your property. |
Please note: It is compulsory by law that both water mist and sprinkler systems are serviced annually to ensure the system is in working order and would be effective in the event of a fire.
Why choose iMist for my fire suppression system?
We have been designing, manufacturing and installing iMist water mist fire suppression systems for our clients across the UK for 5 years. We have worked hard on obtaining and passing many third-party accreditations, and are now one of the most comprehensively tested and well-known water mist fire suppression systems.
Some reasons we think you should choose us:
- 109 years of combined industry experience
- Well known for the service we provide
- Free 24-hour turnaround designs and a free site visit to your property
- Third-party accredited (see our list of certifications and reports on our website)
- Cost certainty with no hidden costs or sudden surprises
- Quick and easy free quotation service
FAQs
Do water mist systems still work if air conditioning is on, or doors/windows are open?
Yes, depending on the nozzle layouts and ventilation conditions. Water mist systems have been successfully tested for tunnel and outdoor fires, and in test cells with windows and doors open. Once you’ve decided on a company, they will be able to show you where to place your nozzles and system.
Can firefighting agents be connected to fire panels?
Some companies, including iMist, can connect to third-party systems such as fire panels, fire alarm systems, AOVs (automatic opening vents), SMS units, fire curtains and more.
