How to Choose the Right Outdoor Fire Pump Set

When designing or upgrading a fire protection system, selecting the right outdoor fire pump set is critical to ensuring reliable fire safety for your project. Whether you're working on a commercial facility, industrial plant, oil & gas site, data center, warehouse, or residential complex, the correct fire pump selection directly impacts system performance and compliance with fire safety standards like NFPA 20 and UL/FM certifications.

As a leading manufacturer of fire pumps, we understand the challenges engineers, contractors, and facility managers face when choosing the right solution. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key considerations, fire pump options, sizing requirements, and industry standards to help you make the right decision.

1. Understanding the Role of Outdoor Fire Pump Sets

Outdoor fire pump sets are installed when the water source, pump room, or protection area is located outside the main building structure. Unlike indoor pump rooms, these systems are typically mounted in weatherproof enclosures or canopies to withstand environmental conditions like rain, humidity, temperature fluctuations, and dust.

An outdoor fire pump set typically includes:

• Main Fire Pump – Electric motor-driven or diesel engine-driven

• Jockey Pump – Maintains system pressure and avoids unnecessary pump startups

• Controller – Ensures automatic and manual pump operation

• Suction & Discharge Piping – Designed according to NFPA20 requirements

• Accessories – Including valves, gauges, flow meters, and protective covers

Understanding your site's environmental and safety requirements is the first step before selecting a suitable pump configuration.

2. Types of Outdoor Fire Pump Sets

Choosing the right type of fire pump is critical for ensuring consistent performance. Below are the most common options:

2.1 Diesel Engine Fire Pump Sets

• Ideal for locations without a reliable electrical power source.

• Highly suitable for outdoor installations due to their independence from the grid.

• NFPA20-compliant diesel pumps are equipped with fuel tanks, exhaust systems, and weather-resistant housings.

Best for: Remote sites, oil & gas facilities, mining areas, and industrial projects.

2.2 Electric Motor Fire Pump Sets

• Powered by a stable electrical supply, electric pumps are quieter and require less maintenance than diesel pumps.

• Often preferred for urban environments with reliable utility power.

• Can be installed outdoors if properly protected with enclosures or shelters.

Best for: High-rise buildings, commercial facilities, and data centers.

2.3 Combined Diesel & Electric Fire Pump Sets

• Also known as dual-drive systems, these packages provide maximum reliability.

• Commonly required in critical facilities where fire protection must remain active under any circumstances.

Best for: Airports, hospitals, data centers, and other mission-critical projects.

2.4 Containerized Outdoor Fire Pump Sets

• Fully packaged within a weatherproof, insulated container.

• Ideal for areas exposed to extreme climates.

• Simplifies installation and reduces on-site construction work.

Best for: Offshore platforms, desert environments, and cold regions.

3. Key Factors to Consider When Selecting an Outdoor Fire Pump Set

3.1 Water Source and Flow Requirements

Start by analyzing the available water supply and required flow rate (GPM or L/min). Outdoor pumps are often connected to water tanks, reservoirs, or open water sources, so pump selection should ensure consistent and sufficient water delivery during emergencies.

3.2 Pressure and Head Requirements

The pump must provide enough pressure to deliver water effectively throughout the fire protection system, including hydrants, sprinklers, and monitors. Oversizing or undersizing the pump can lead to inefficiency and safety issues.

3.3 Compliance with NFPA20, UL, and FM Standards

Fire protection systems must comply with NFPA 20 (Standard for the Installation of Stationary Pumps for Fire Protection). In many regions, UL-listed and FM-approved pumps are mandatory to meet insurance and local authority requirements.

3.4 Power Supply and Reliability

• If stable electricity is available, electric pumps may be ideal.

• For remote sites, diesel-driven pumps are often preferred.

• For high-reliability projects, a combined system ensures uninterrupted protection.

3.5 Installation Environment

Outdoor pump sets must withstand varying weather conditions. Consider:

• Temperature range (hot or freezing climates)

• Humidity and dust levels

• Enclosure material (corrosion-resistant coatings, stainless steel housings)

3.6 Maintenance and Accessibility

Choose a system that allows easy access for inspection, testing, and servicing. Containerized outdoor pump sets offer simplified maintenance solutions.

4. Steps to Properly Size Your Outdoor Fire Pump Set

Selecting the right pump size is critical for ensuring adequate protection without overspending on unnecessary capacity.

Step 1: Determine Fire Water Demand

• Calculate flow rates based on sprinklers, hydrants, and monitors.

• Factor in peak fire scenarios.

Step 2: Calculate Required Pressure

• Consider the building height, piping layout, and system friction losses.

Step 3: Match Pump Performance Curves

• Compare your demand points to the pump curve to ensure efficient operation.

Step 4: Verify Safety Margins

• Include a small buffer in pump capacity but avoid excessive oversizing.

Step 5: Cross-Check with NFPA20 and Local Codes

• Always ensure your calculations comply with global and regional fire safety standards.

5. Benefits of Choosing the Right Outdoor Fire Pump Set

• Reliable Fire Protection: Ensures rapid response during emergencies.

• Regulatory Compliance: Meets NFPA20, UL, and FM requirements.

• Cost Efficiency: Avoids unnecessary energy consumption and maintenance costs.

• Longevity: Built to withstand harsh outdoor environments.

• Flexible Integration: Works seamlessly with hydrants, sprinklers, and deluge systems.

6. Why Work with a Professional Fire Pump Manufacturer

Partnering with an experienced fire pump manufacturer ensures you get:

• Customized Solutions: Tailored pump packages to meet your project’s unique needs.

• Compliance Expertise: Assurance that your system meets NFPA, UL, and FM standards.

• Turnkey Support: From design and selection to installation and maintenance.

• Global Experience: Proven performance across various industries and environments.

At Better Technology Group, we provide UL-listed and NFPA20-compliant outdoor fire pump sets, engineered for reliability and optimized for performance in diverse site conditions.

Conclusion

Choosing the right outdoor fire pump set is a critical decision that affects the safety, compliance, and operational efficiency of your project. By understanding your water demand, pressure requirements, environmental challenges, and regulatory standards, you can select a solution that ensures reliable fire protection for years to come.

If you need assistance selecting the best pump set for your facility, our team at Better Technology Group is ready to help with expert advice and customized solutions.