What is a characteristic of a dry sprinkler system?

A dry sprinkler system is specifically designed to avoid the risk of freezing, which can occur in environments with low temperatures. This is achieved by maintaining air pressure in the pipes, while the piping system itself remains devoid of water until an activation occurs. In this system, when a sprinkler head is activated by heat, the valve opens, allowing water to flow from a separate source into the system for firefighting purposes.

The design of a dry sprinkler system is particularly advantageous in unheated areas such as attics or loading docks, where temperatures can drop to levels that would freeze water in a wet system. By being filled with pressurized air instead of water, the dry sprinkler system mitigates this freezing risk while still providing effective fire suppression capabilities when needed. This characteristic is vital for ensuring the system remains functional during fire emergencies in cold environments.