How to Test a Fire Pump: Step-by-Step Guide

Routine testing of fire pumps is essential to ensure they operate correctly in the event of an emergency. A malfunctioning or underperforming fire pump can put lives, property, and businesses at serious risk. That’s why building owners, facility managers, and fire protection professionals must perform regular fire pump tests in compliance with NFPA 25: Standard for the Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through how to test a fire pump properly—including types of tests, required equipment, safety precautions, and detailed procedures.

Why Fire Pump Testing Matters

A fire pump is the heart of your fire protection system. It boosts water pressure from a reliable source (e.g., a tank, reservoir, or city water supply) to the sprinkler system during a fire emergency.

Without regular testing:

• System failure risks increase

• Compliance with local regulations and insurance may be compromised

• Mechanical issues may go unnoticed until it’s too late

NFPA 25 requires weekly or monthly no-flow testing and annual flow testing to verify operational readiness.

Types of Fire Pump Tests

There are several types of fire pump tests that serve different purposes:

1. No-Flow (Churn) Test

• Frequency: Weekly (Diesel), Monthly (Electric)

• Purpose: Verify pump starts automatically and runs smoothly under no-flow conditions

• Procedure: Observe pressure readings, noises, vibration, and alignment while the pump circulates water within itself

2. Annual Flow Test (Full-Flow Performance Test)

• Frequency: Annually

• Purpose: Measure pump performance at 100%, 150%, and shutoff conditions

• Procedure: Water is discharged through a test header or flow meter while measuring pressure and flow rates

3. Alarm and Signal Test

• Frequency: Annually

• Purpose: Ensure signals (alarm, supervisory, trouble) reach the fire alarm panel or monitoring station during pump activity

What You Need Before Testing

Before starting the fire pump test, ensure the following equipment and conditions are ready:

✅ Equipment Checklist

• Pressure gauges (suction and discharge)

• Flow meters or calibrated test header

• Tachometer (for diesel engine RPM check)

• Stopwatch or timer

• Temperature sensors (for bearing and pump casing)

• Thermometer and barometer (for atmospheric pressure, if needed)

• Personal protective equipment (PPE)

✅ Safety Precautions

• Notify building occupants and fire department of test schedule

• Ensure drainage and test header location can handle discharged water

• Always have a qualified technician or fire protection professional conduct or supervise the test

• Secure area around the pump room or test header

Step-by-Step: How to Test a Fire Pump

Let’s dive into the exact procedures you should follow when testing a fire pump: