In the fire protection industry, electric fire pumps play a crucial role in delivering pressurized water during emergencies. However, even the most efficient fire pump system is useless if it lacks power during a fire event—especially when the primary power source fails. That’s where backup power comes in. Choosing the ideal backup power source for electric fire pumps is not just about convenience—it’s a life safety issue.
In this article, we’ll explore:
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Why electric fire pumps need a backup power source
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NFPA 20 requirements
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Various backup options including diesel generators and dual utility feeds
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Best practices for selecting and maintaining a reliable backup system
1. Why Do Electric Fire Pumps Need Backup Power?
Fire emergencies often result in disruption of the primary electrical supply—whether due to natural disasters, short circuits, explosions, or grid failure. If an electric fire pump loses power during such a scenario, the entire fire suppression system could be compromised. Therefore, a backup power source ensures continued operation even if the main supply fails.
Backup power isn't just recommended—it's often required by fire codes and insurance companies, especially in high-risk facilities like hospitals, data centers, high-rise buildings, industrial plants, and petrochemical facilities.
2. What Does NFPA 20 Say About Backup Power?
The National Fire Protection Association’s NFPA 20 standard, titled Standard for the Installation of Stationary Pumps for Fire Protection, outlines specific requirements for electric fire pumps.
According to the 2022 edition:
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Section 9.3.2.1.1 requires that when the electric utility is unreliable, a backup source must be provided.
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Section 9.3.2.2.2 allows for a second independent utility source or an on-site standby generator.
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Transfer switches must be automatic and comply with UL 1008 or other approved standards.
Therefore, if your facility is in an area prone to outages or if your risk assessment indicates vulnerability, NFPA 20 compliance will demand a reliable secondary power source.
3. Backup Power Options for Electric Fire Pumps
Let’s explore the most common and NFPA-compliant solutions for electric fire pump backup.
A. On-Site Diesel Generator
A diesel generator is by far the most common and reliable backup power source. It starts automatically within seconds of detecting a power failure and can operate independently for hours or even days with the right fuel storage.
Advantages:
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High reliability
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Fast startup with ATS (Automatic Transfer Switch)
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Long operational duration if properly fueled
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Meets NFPA 20 and local code requirements
Key Considerations:
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Must be tested regularly under load
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Fuel must be monitored and treated for stability
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Generator capacity must meet the locked rotor current of the fire pump motor
B. Secondary Utility Feed
Some large facilities opt for a dual utility feed—power coming from two different substations or grids. This setup is suitable in regions with strong utility infrastructure.
Advantages:
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Seamless power switching (no delay)
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No fuel storage or engine maintenance required
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Lower emissions compared to generators
Drawbacks:
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Not feasible in all locations
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Both feeds must be completely independent
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Approval from local authorities is usually required
C. Diesel Engine Fire Pump as Backup
Instead of using an electric pump with a backup power source, many facilities install two separate fire pumps: one electric, one diesel. If one fails, the other activates automatically.
Advantages:
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No need for a generator or secondary utility
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Total system redundancy
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Fully compliant with NFPA 20 as long as controls and spacing are correct
Considerations:
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Requires more installation space
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Higher upfront cost
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Additional maintenance required for the diesel pump
D. Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS)
While UPS systems are typically used for sensitive electronics, high-capacity UPS systems can briefly bridge the power gap between utility loss and generator startup.
Best for: Supplementary use to avoid delay during generator startup.
Not a standalone solution for electric fire pumps due to limited runtime.
4. Components of a Reliable Backup System
To ensure smooth transition and uninterrupted operation, the following components are essential:
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Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS): Instantly transfers load from primary to backup power.
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Battery Backups for Controllers: Ensures fire pump controllers and control panels remain live.
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Test Panels and Load Banks: For regular generator performance verification.
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Alarm Systems: Notify building staff of transfer switch activation, generator failure, or fuel levels.
5. Choosing the Right Backup Power Source: Key Factors
Selecting the ideal backup solution depends on several site-specific conditions:
| Factor | Impact on Backup Power Choice |
|---|---|
| Local code & NFPA requirements | Determine whether generator or dual feed is necessary |
| Risk tolerance | High-risk areas may require generator plus diesel pump |
| Budget & space | Generators need room for ventilation and fuel storage |
| Duration of possible outage | Diesel generator offers extended runtime |
| Environmental regulations | May restrict use of diesel engines or require emissions control |
Always work with a fire protection engineer or consultant to evaluate your site and risk profile before finalizing the backup power system.
6. Maintenance and Testing: Ensuring Reliability
The reliability of your backup power system is only as good as your testing and maintenance protocols. NFPA 25 mandates periodic testing:
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Generators: Weekly inspection, monthly load test, and annual full-load test
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Transfer Switches: Monthly inspection and semi-annual testing
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Diesel Engines: Weekly startup and annual flow test when used as backup pumps
Additionally, all results should be logged, and corrective actions taken promptly in case of failures.
7. Real-World Case Study
A leading pharmaceutical manufacturing plant in Southeast Asia experienced a power failure during a localized flood. Thanks to their dual-pump configuration (one electric and one diesel fire pump), the diesel unit automatically activated within 5 seconds. The built-in diesel fuel tank sustained operation for over 10 hours, allowing the fire suppression system to remain fully functional until utility power was restored.
This case highlights the critical importance of well-designed backup systems in mission-critical facilities.
Conclusion: Invest in Power Redundancy to Protect Lives and Property
The ideal backup power source for electric fire pumps depends on your facility’s risk level, location, and budget. However, diesel generators remain the gold standard in most applications due to their independence and compliance with NFPA 20.
When possible, consider dual fire pump systems for maximum reliability. Always ensure that the system is supported by automatic transfer switching, routine maintenance, and performance testing.
Need Help Choosing the Right Fire Pump Backup System?
At Better Technology Group, we manufacture UL Listed fire pump systems, including electric, diesel, and dual-pump configurations. Our engineering team can help you design a customized backup power solution that meets NFPA 20, local codes, and your site’s unique safety needs.
