by Vince Powers

Background of Sprinkler Recalls

Fire sprinklers are the most trusted and proven life-safety features in any building, providing unmatched protection that dramatically reduces fire deaths, injuries, and property loss. They are designed to activate quickly, deliver the right amount of water, correct distribution, and control a fire before it grows into a devastating event. But like any mechanical device, sprinklers are not immune to manufacturing defects or concerns. When performance or manufacture issues are identified, recalls can be issued to ensure the continued reliability of these systems.

A sprinkler recall does not imply widespread system failure, in fact sprinklers are successful 96% of the time.  Instead, it signals that a specific model, component, or production period has been identified as potentially unreliable. Knowing how recalls work and what actions to take keeps buildings protected and compliant.

Sprinklers may be recalled for several reasons, including:

1. Improper or Delayed Activation

They may fail to operate within their listed temperature ratings, delaying response time during a fire.

2. Material or Component Deficiencies

Defective components such as seals, frame materials, or thermal elements can compromise the sprinkler’s operation.

3. Long-Term Reliability Testing Failures

Sprinklers undergo ongoing evaluation and performance testing. Failures identified years after installation can trigger formal recalls.

4. Issues with Sealing Mechanisms, Including O-Rings

One significant industry development occurred when the use of dynamic O-rings in certain sprinkler designs was prohibited, effective January 9, 2003. These dynamic O-rings, installed in some older sprinkler models, were found to be susceptible to degradation over time. Loss of elasticity or chemical breakdown could lead to failure to activate or failure to seal properly.

This table represents the percentage of sprinklers that operated normally when tested.

Courtesy of UL Solutions Testing, 2019

O-ring design on right (recall/voluntary replacement) Belville design on left (non-o ring)

This ban represented a major shift toward more reliable, modern sealing technologies in sprinkler construction.

How Sprinkler Recalls Are Identified

Sprinkler recalls in the U.S. are typically announced through the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), working in coordination with testing laboratories and fire sprinkler industry organizations.

A typical recall announcement includes:

• Model designations
• Date ranges of affected production
• Visual identifiers or markings
• Scope and reason for the recall

Importantly, recalls usually involve specific product lines or production periods, not all sprinklers made by a particular manufacturer.

What Building Owners Should Do When Recalled Sprinklers Are Found

If you suspect your building contains sprinklers covered by a recall or voluntary replacement:

1. Contact a Qualified Fire Sprinkler Contractor

Do not attempt to remove or identify the sprinklers yourself. Trained technicians can safely verify model numbers, date codes, and components such as O-rings.

2. Follow Recall Procedures

Most recalls include guidance for obtaining replacements from the manufacturer. A licensed contractor can assist with the process.

3. Replace, do not Repair

Sprinkler heads are not repairable. If a sprinkler is recalled—or contains prohibited components like dynamic O-rings—replacement is the only appropriate remedy.

4. Maintain Accurate Records

Document:

• Identified recalled sprinklers
• Locations and quantities replaced
• Date of corrective actions
• The contractor who performed the work

NFPA 25 Requirements

NFPA 25, Standard for Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems, requires the replacement of sprinklers that:

• Are recalled or under voluntary replacement programs.
• Are damaged, corroded, loaded, or painted (detrimental to sprinkler performance)
• Failed field service tests.

During inspections, the presence of recalled or voluntary replacement sprinkler models or components that are no longer permitted such as sprinklers manufactured with dynamic O-ring seals prior to the 2003 prohibition should be brought to the building owner’s attention when observed. It remains the owner’s responsibility to ensure that any recalled or prohibited sprinklers identified in their system are replaced.

Why This Matters

A fire sprinkler system is only as reliable as every sprinkler in it. A single recalled or defective sprinkler whether due to a faulty thermal link, degraded O-ring, or improper activation can compromise the system’s effectiveness during a fire.

Final Thoughts

The 2003 ban on dynamic O-rings marked a significant shift in design reliability, helping drive the industry toward safer, more dependable sprinkler technology.

Do you have more questions about recalls? Contact the NFSA Today.

For over a century, the National Fire Sprinkler Association has been advocating for the widespread acceptance of the fire sprinkler concept. Learn how membership can help you expand your knowledge and grow your business. Visit our membership page today to begin.