How often should the water supply system for a sprinkler be flow tested according to NFPA 25?

The correct answer, indicating that the water supply system should be flow tested annually, is based on the requirements set forth in NFPA 25, which governs the inspection, testing, and maintenance of water-based fire protection systems. Annual flow testing is crucial for ensuring that the sprinkler system has adequate water supply pressure and flow for effective firefighting operations.

This regular testing helps identify any changes or issues in the water supply, such as reduced pressure or obstructions. Conducting these tests annually allows for timely maintenance measures and guarantees that the sprinkler system will perform effectively in the event of a fire. Regular testing maintains compliance with safety standards and assures that the system functions as designed.

While some options suggest longer intervals between tests, such as every 2 years or every 5 years, these frequencies do not adequately address the need for regular evaluation of the water supply, which is critical for fire safety. Monthly testing is not practical or required in most scenarios and would be excessive. Thus, annual flow testing strikes an appropriate balance between ensuring system reliability and maintaining operational efficiency.