When we walk through the streets or drive our cars, we often see them without paying much attention to them: hydrants. Yet these inconspicuous water connections are of crucial importance for fire protection and can save lives in an emergency. But what exactly is a hydrant and how does it work? We provide the answer!
What is a hydrant?
A hydrant is a device that is usually installed on public roads and buildings and serves as a water connection for the fire department.
Its main function is to provide a quick and reliable source of water for the emergency services in the event of a fire in order to extinguish or bring the fire under control.
How does a hydrant work?
There are two types, above-ground hydrants and underground hydrants. While above-ground hydrants are clearly recognizable, underground hydrants are located under a road cap. Signs indicate where they can be found.
Depending on their nominal diameter and design, above-ground hydrants are equipped with Storz couplings of different sizes to which the emergency services can connect their hoses. The above-ground hydrants are opened by turning the head using a special hydrant wrench. After the extinguishing process, the water column in the hydrant is emptied automatically after the closing process. This prevents frost damage in winter and generally prevents stagnation of the water (drinking water hygiene) in this area.
Underground hydrants are operated by means of a so-called standpipe. After opening the road cap, a standpipe is fixed to the underground hydrant using a claw. A hydrant key is then used to operate a gate valve, which releases the water supply.
This type also empties automatically after closing.
If surface and underground hydrants are not installed in the public area and are supplied via the house connection, they are part of an extinguishing water system.
In this case, the requirements of DIN 14462 (planning, installation, operation and maintenance of wall hydrant systems, above-ground and underground hydrant systems and "dry" extinguishing water systems), the relevant drinking water standards and the Drinking Water Ordinance apply. A direct connection to the drinking water installation is not permitted for hygienic reasons. The supply must be provided via a standard-compliant extinguishing water transfer point.
Types of hydrants
There are different types of hydrants that fulfill different functions depending on the area of application and location. The most common types include:
Underground hydrant
These hydrants are embedded in the ground and are protected by a special cover. They are mainly used in urban areas to provide an inconspicuous solution and at the same time allow quick access to water.
Above ground hydrant
In contrast to underground hydrants, above-ground hydrants are located above ground level. It is easier to access and enables a quicker connection for the fire department.
Wall hydrant
Wall hydrants are installed in buildings and serve as internal water connections for the fire department.
We support you
As a specialist fire protection company, we specialize in the installation and maintenance of hydrants.
Our experienced service technicians have many years of experience and are always up to date with the latest technology. We install and maintain hydrants - including the necessary drinking water separation systems - throughout Germany.
