A flow test shall be conducted every how many years at the hydraulically most remote hose connections of each zone of an automatic standpipe system to verify the design pressure at the required flow?

• A. 1 year
• B. 3 years
• C. 5 years
• D. 10 years

Answer: (C)

The test is about confirming that the standpipe system still delivers the design pressure at the required flow at the farthest point in each zone. By testing at the hydraulically most remote hose connection, you’re checking the worst-case scenario for pressure losses along the line, valves, and fittings. This verifies the system can meet its performance target under full demand.

Five years is the specified interval for this flow test in NFPA 25, providing a practical balance between catching degradation (like friction losses, valve issues, or small leaks) and not testing too frequently. Shorter intervals aren’t required unless a deficiency is found, and longer intervals could miss gradual declines in performance.