Fire Sprinkler Systems vs. Sprinkler Head Types: What’s the Difference?
Fire protection in industrial warehouses is not one-size-fits-all. When evaluating fire sprinkler systems, it's important to understand that not all sprinklers function the same way—some control fires, while others suppress them immediately.
There are two key categories of fire protection in warehouses:
Fire Sprinkler Systems – The overall system that delivers water throughout the building.
Fire Sprinkler Heads – The specific nozzle types that determine how water is discharged.
Let’s break down the differences and how they impact warehouse fire protection.
1. Fire Sprinkler Systems: The Overall Fire Protection Network
Fire sprinkler systems refer to the complete setup responsible for storing and distributing water when a fire occurs. The type of system depends on building conditions, environmental factors, and fire hazards.
Types of Fire Sprinkler Systems
Wet-Pipe Sprinkler System
Water is always in the pipes and is immediately released when a sprinkler head activates.
Common in general warehouse storage, manufacturing, and distribution centers.
Not suitable for freezer storage, as water in pipes can freeze.
Dry-Pipe Sprinkler System
Pipes are filled with compressed air or nitrogen instead of water. When activated, the air releases first, allowing water to flow.
Used in cold storage, unheated warehouses, and outdoor loading docks.
Slight delay in water discharge compared to wet-pipe systems.
Foam-Water Sprinkler System
Releases a mix of water and foam concentrate to smother flames and prevent re-ignition.
Best for facilities storing flammable liquids, solvent-based paints, or hazardous chemicals.
Requires foam replenishment and regular maintenance.
Deluge Sprinkler System
All sprinkler heads are open, and the system floods the entire area when activated.
Used in high-risk environments such as chemical storage, aircraft hangars, and hazardous material facilities.
High water usage can result in property damage.
2. Fire Sprinkler Heads: How Water is Discharged
While fire sprinkler systems determine how water is stored and delivered, sprinkler heads determine how water is applied to control or suppress a fire.
Types of Sprinkler Heads
CMDA (Control Mode Density/Area) Sprinklers
Applies water at a set density over a defined area to contain and control fire spread.
Common in general warehouses storing Class I-IV commodities.
Designed for fire control rather than immediate suppression.
CMSA (Control Mode Specific Application) Sprinklers
Produces larger water droplets to penetrate high-piled storage flames.
Best for warehouses with tall storage racks (typically 35+ feet).
Requires high water pressure and may need a fire pump for adequate supply.
ESFR (Early Suppression, Fast Response) Sprinklers
Suppresses fires at their source by discharging large amounts of water at high velocity.
Ideal for e-commerce warehouses, fulfillment centers, and logistics hubs with high-piled storage.
Requires high water pressure and is not compatible with solid shelving that blocks water penetration.
In-Rack Sprinklers
Placed inside warehouse racking systems to target fires at their source.
Necessary for solid shelf racking where ceiling sprinklers cannot reach lower levels.
Used in high-piled plastic storage and encapsulated products (shrink-wrapped goods, plastic packaging, foam inserts).
Higher installation and maintenance costs than ceiling-mounted systems.
Fire Sprinkler Systems vs. Sprinkler Heads: Key Differences
Sprinkler systems are the infrastructure that supplies water for fire suppression.
Sprinkler heads determine how and where the water is discharged.
Choosing the Right Fire Protection System for a Warehouse
The best fire protection setup depends on:
Storage type (commodity classification I–IV or Group A Plastics).
Storage height and racking configuration.
Warehouse ceiling height and water supply capacity.
Whether the goal is fire suppression (ESFR) or fire control (CMDA, CMSA).
Before leasing or upgrading a warehouse, confirm that the sprinkler system meets NFPA 13 requirements for the planned use.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the difference between fire sprinkler systems and sprinkler heads helps warehouse operators, landlords, and tenants make informed decisions about fire protection.
Whether evaluating a property for new storage use or ensuring compliance with NFPA 13, knowing how water is stored and discharged is critical to fire safety.
Looking to lease an industrial space? Ensure the fire sprinkler system aligns with your planned storage.
Consult a fire protection expert before signing the lease.