DEMOFIRE • KNOWLEDGE CENTER
How to Evaluate Fire Pump Flow & Pressure Tests
A practical guide to evaluating fire pump flow and pressure test results and comparing field performance with the required duty point.
Purpose of the Test
The purpose of a fire-pump test is not simply to confirm that the driver starts. The test should demonstrate that the pump can deliver the flow and pressure required by the fire protection system.
What Data Should Be Recorded?
- Suction and discharge pressures
- Measured flow
- Zero-flow / churn condition
- Operating point near the design flow
- Higher-flow points where required
- Electric or diesel driver condition
- Automatic start and alarm signals
- Observations of leaks, vibration or abnormal noise
How Are the Results Interpreted?
The measured values should be compared with the pump curve, the system hydraulic demand, the water supply and the project acceptance criteria. A single pressure-gauge reading is not sufficient to evaluate pump performance.