In fire protection systems, activating main pumps—electric or diesel—is not always the first step when pressure drops. A smaller, yet vital component takes action before the main pump starts. This is the Jockey fire pump, the first line of defense in keeping system pressure within design limits.
The jockey pump plays a critical role in ensuring round-the-clock readiness. It compensates for minor pressure drops caused by small leaks or water expansion and contraction in pipes, without engaging the main pump. This extends the life of the primary pump, reduces energy and fuel consumption, and maintains optimal network performance according to NFPA standards.
This article explores what a jockey pump is, how it works, and why it is indispensable for any facility seeking reliable fire protection.
What Is a Jockey Pump?
A jockey pump is a small pump used in fire systems to maintain network pressure at the required level. Despite its size, it ensures the system remains ready 24/7.
It operates automatically when a slight pressure drop occurs due to minor leaks or temperature changes, quickly restoring pressure to design levels.
How Does It Differ from the Main Fire Pump?
The difference is both functional and essential:
Jockey Pump: Handles very small pressure drops. Low flow rate; does not fight fires directly. Prevents unnecessary main pump operation.
Main Fire Pump: Activates only during significant pressure drops, indicating a fire. Delivers full pressure and flow needed for firefighting.
In other words, the jockey pump stabilizes the system, while the main pump tackles the fire.
Why Is It Essential According to NFPA?
The jockey pump is mandatory in most systems under NFPA standards because it:
Maintains design pressure continuously.
Prevents repeated unnecessary main pump activation.
Reduces energy and fuel consumption, especially for diesel pumps.
Extends the main pump’s lifespan and lowers maintenance costs.
Ensures immediate response during a real fire.
For these reasons, the jockey pump is indispensable in any professionally designed fire system.
How Does the Jockey Pump Work Within a Fire Protection System?
The jockey pump operates with a precise and intelligent mechanism that makes it essential for maintaining the readiness of the fire network. It is the first line of response when system pressure drops and addresses the issue before the main fire pump needs to operate.
The following outlines how it works:
1. Maintaining System Design Pressure
The jockey pump is set slightly above the pressure at which the main pump operates. This ensures the jockey pump always keeps the pressure within the required network value without any fluctuations or sudden losses.
2. Compensating Minor Pressure Drops Due to Small Leaks
Minor pressure drops can occur due to undetectable leaks in pipes or expansion and contraction caused by temperature changes. Here, the jockey pump immediately compensates for the drop and restores pressure to normal levels without needing to activate any other pump.
3. Preventing Repeated Operation of Main Fire Pumps
One of the main benefits of the jockey pump is preventing diesel or electric pumps from repeated activation due to minor pressure drops. Frequent activation causes faster wear of the main pump, increased fuel and energy consumption, and higher maintenance costs.
The jockey pump efficiently handles this task on its own.
4. Automatic Start and Stop Mechanism
The jockey pump relies on pressure switches that detect any pressure drop.
When pressure falls below a set limit, the pump starts automatically.
When pressure returns to the required level, it stops automatically without human intervention.
This mechanism ensures it operates only when necessary and keeps the fire network always ready, in compliance with NFPA requirements.
Why a Jockey Pump Cannot Be Replaced
Having a jockey pump in any fire protection system is not optional; it is an essential part to ensure system continuity and efficiency, especially in buildings and facilities that require immediate network readiness. Its importance is highlighted in several key points:
Reducing Energy Consumption: For minor pressure drops, the jockey pump handles the task instead of activating the larger main pump, significantly lowering electricity and diesel use and making the system more cost-effective long-term.
Extending Diesel and Electric Pump Life: Frequent activation of the main pump causes component wear and increased failures. The jockey pump prevents repeated activation by handling minor drops, prolonging the lifespan of main fire pumps and reducing maintenance costs.
Maintaining System Readiness: By keeping pressure stable, the jockey pump ensures the system is ready immediately when a fire occurs, allowing sprinklers to operate without delay.
Preventing False Alarms from Pressure Drops: Minor pressure drops due to natural causes may trigger unintentional alarms or main pump activation. The jockey pump restores pressure quickly to prevent false activations.
Also read: UL/FM Certified Fire Pumps: Why Are Certification Credentials Crucial in Saudi Arabia?
Problems That May Occur Without a Jockey Pump or if It Malfunctions
The absence or failure of a jockey pump affects not only network pressure but can trigger a series of technical and operational problems that endanger the entire system. Key issues include:
Unnecessary diesel pump operation: Minor pressure drops will directly trigger the diesel pump even if full system activation is not needed, causing significant engine strain.
High fuel consumption: Diesel pump operation without cause leads to excessive fuel use, increasing operating costs and reducing system efficiency.
Excessive wear of the main pump: Frequent activation accelerates wear on main pump components, electric or diesel, shortening lifespan and increasing failure risk during emergencies.
Network pressure drops that may impair sprinkler performance during emergencies: Without a jockey pump maintaining design pressure, the system may lose sufficient pressure, slowing sprinkler response and risking lives and property.
Specifications Required for an Efficient Jockey Pump (According to International Standards)
To perform its role efficiently and comply with global requirements, a jockey pump must meet technical specifications that ensure reliability and continuous network pressure maintenance. Key specifications include:
Small size and low flow (GPM): Sufficient to compensate minor pressure drops without activating the main pump.
Ability to reach design pressure quickly: Critical for restoring pressure before the main pump is triggered.
Corrosion and rust resistance: Ensures stable operation over long periods, especially in high-humidity environments.
Full compliance with NFPA 20 requirements: Ensures reliability and safety in emergencies.
Connected to an independent control panel: Allows automated operation and separate monitoring from the rest of the system.
How to Select the Right Jockey Pump for Your System
Choosing the correct jockey pump is essential for maintaining stable pressure in fire networks and overall system efficiency. Selection depends on several technical factors considered during system design or upgrade:
Determine Network Design Pressure: Identify the pressure the pump must maintain. This varies by building height, number of lines, and sprinkler network size.
Choose Appropriate Electrical Power: Ensure sufficient flow to compensate minor pressure drops without overloading the pump or electrical system.
Match Pump to Facility Type (Residential, Commercial, Industrial): Industrial buildings may require faster, more robust pumps, while smaller pumps may suffice for residential or mid-sized commercial buildings.
Consider Water Source and Pipe Length: Long distances or tall networks require pumps capable of raising pressure quickly. Also account for pipe losses to ensure stable performance.
Jockey Pump Maintenance and Its Role in Ensuring Readiness
Regular maintenance is crucial to keep fire systems ready and capable of responding instantly during emergencies. The jockey pump operates almost continuously to maintain pressure, and any malfunction may trigger main pump activation unnecessarily. Therefore, precise maintenance is essential.
1. Weekly Operating Pressure Test
Perform weekly checks to ensure the pump reaches the required pressure. This helps detect early performance changes due to minor wear or electrical issues.
2. Inspect Electrical Connections
As the pump relies on electricity, inspect all connections regularly to prevent loose contacts or corrosion that could interrupt operation.
3. Check for Leaks in Network Lines
Minor leaks or pipe joint issues can cause repeated jockey pump activation, reducing its lifespan. Routine maintenance identifies and resolves leaks before they escalate.
4. Record Readings for Long-Term Stability
Track pressure, start counts, and electrical readings continuously. This helps monitor performance and detect any changes that may require intervention.
Also read: Fire Suppression System for Fuel Stations: How Fire Pumps Help Reduce Fire Risk in Fuel Stations?
The Role of Arif Al Nahdi Company (ANC) in Installing and Maintaining Jockey Pumps
ANC provides a comprehensive system for installing and maintaining jockey pumps, focusing on top-quality standards to ensure 24/7 fire system readiness.
1. Providing High-Quality, Standard-Compliant Jockey Pumps
ANC supplies NFPA 20 and SASO-approved jockey pumps with fast pressure recovery suitable for various facility sizes and fire network types.
2. Professional Installation with Precise Pressure Adjustment
ANC’s team performs accurate installation, calibrating the pump and setting operating pressure to match network design, preventing pressure fluctuations and ensuring optimal operation.
3. Routine Maintenance to Maintain Stable Pressure
ANC offers scheduled maintenance programs, including performance checks, pressure testing, monitoring readings, and resolving potential issues before failures occur.
4. Comprehensive Pump Room Inspection for Optimal Performance
ANC inspects the entire pump room, including:
Electrical connections
Power sources
Valves
Pipe network
Main fire pumps
This ensures full system integration and readiness for emergency use.
