Essential Guide to Fire Damper HVAC Inspection & Testing

A fire damper inspection is necessary every few years for structures that are required to have them installed as part of their HVAC systems. The purpose of the damper is to prevent fire and smoke from spreading through the duct system if a fire breaks out. The only way to know whether your fire dampers are working is to periodically test them. Here is some important information to know about the fire damper inspection process and what the next steps are if a damper fails.

The Importance of Fire Damper HVAC Inspections

A fire damper is a critical component in the HVAC system of many buildings. They are required in many types of complex commercial buildings, including hospitals, and in residential homes in certain limited circumstances. Fire dampers can be installed in HVAC ducts, ceiling cavities, or walls or floors if appropriate.

Fire thrives on oxygen and fuel. The ducts in an HVAC system collect dust and debris over time, which is highly flammable. That could be a deadly combination in a commercial building or apartment building that uses an HVAC system. The fire dampers normally remain open when everything is functioning properly. When the HVAC system detects intense heat, the fire dampers should close automatically. When the dampers are closed, it limits the oxygen that the fire can receive and prevents the flames from spreading due to the dust and debris in the ducts.

There are a couple of different mechanisms by which your fire dampers can be triggered. Some use a thermal element that automatically melts when the temperature reaches a certain level, which triggers the dampers. This is known as a non-actuated system. In other configurations, when the fire alarm system detects fire or smoke, it sends an electrical signal that shuts the dampers. Others are activated when air pressure drops in the system, which indicates that a fire is sucking up all the oxygen. These are known as actuated systems.

Fire damper HVAC inspections are periodically required to ensure that they are working properly. This helps to prevent the catastrophic spread of fires in buildings that have HVAC systems. Inspections are required under the rules of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and International Building and Fire Codes.

How to Inspect Your Fire Damper

Fire dampers can be visually inspected at any time, and it's not a bad idea to do it once every year or so. While this isn't required, it can give you peace of mind that everything is functioning properly in the event of a fire.

The first thing to visually inspect is the fusible link. Remove it and test to ensure that it closes and locks. Sometimes the link can be damaged or even painted (believe it or not). If there's a problem with a link, replace it with one that has the same temperature rating.

Check the damper for any obstructions or debris that may be blocking it. Remove any dust or debris. Inspect the blades, sleeves, or frames on every damper. You're looking for corroded or rusted parts, things that are dented or bent, or a misaligned frame. Any of these things can prevent the damper from fully closing when needed. Also, lubricate any moving parts during an inspection. Keep a record of when the damper was inspected and the name of the person who inspected it.

How to Test Your Fire Damper: Methods & Guidelines

There are three testing phases that a fire damper goes through:

• Operational testing

• Acceptance testing

• Periodic testing

Operational Testing

An operational test is conducted immediately after a fire damper is installed. The HVAC installation professional ensures that the damper can close without any obstructions. If the system uses fusible links, they make sure it's the correct classification and temperature rating. The indicating devices are checked to make sure they're functioning properly. An operational test may also involve checking the velocity of the airflow in the duct to make sure it's the right speed for the damper's proper operation.

Acceptance Testing

After all operational testing has been completed for each damper and the entire HVAC system has been installed, that's when the acceptance testing phase happens. Acceptance testing must take place before the HVAC system can be placed into service. During the acceptance test, a qualified professional will make sure the dampers are not missing any necessary parts and that none of the parts are damaged.

If the system is actuated, the tester ensures that the damper fully closes when electricity or air pressure is disconnected. They'll also check to make sure the damper reopens when electricity or air pressure comes back on. If it's an actuated system, the acceptance testing is performed under maximum airflow.

If it's a non-actuated system, the tester will pull the fusible link to make sure the damper closes properly. Non-actuated systems can be tested with the HVAC fan off.

Periodic Testing

Periodic testing is conducted by law 1 year after an HVAC system after the first acceptance test. After that, the dampers must be tested every 4 years (every 6 years for hospitals).

During the periodic testing for an actuated system, the tester ensures that the dampers are fully opened or closed, based on how your HVAC system is designed. They'll also check to make sure the dampers close or open properly when commanded.

If you have a non-actuated system, the tester makes sure the fusible link is not damaged or painted. The HVAC pro will pull the fusible link to make sure the damper fully closes, and replace the link to test whether it fully reopens.

Where are Fire Dampers Required?

Fire dampers are generally required in buildings where a duct passes through a wall that's rated for 2 hours or more. They're also necessary for air transfer openings in walls that do not have ducts, regardless of fire rating. They can also be required in floor assemblies and shaft enclosures.

Find Fire Damper Replacements & Upgrades with HVAC Jack

HVAC Jack carries all the fire damper replacements, upgrades, and fire damper HVAC accessories that you need to keep your system functioning properly. If you have any questions or concerns about fire damper inspection or testing, Contact Us to talk to one of our specialists!