To Schedule Please Call (919) 563-2226
Fire hydrant
Inspection & Maintenance

Fire Hydrants

Annual flow testing, inspection, and maintenance to keep your hydrants ready when it matters most.

Fire Hydrants play a very important role in fighting fires.

When firefighters use this above-ground valve connection, they are supplied with water straight from the city's main. The water then goes through hoses to a nearby pumper truck, which then raises the pressure with its internal booster pump — lastly connecting to the FDC (Fire Department Connection) to provide a supplement of water to your fire sprinkler system.

01

City's Water Main

Source of pressurized water supply

02

Pumper Truck

Boosts pressure via internal pump

03

FDC Connection

Supplements your sprinkler system

Fire hydrant flow test
Fire Department Connection
Key Component

FDC (Fire Department Connection)

The Fire Department Connection is the point where the fire department connects their hoses to supplement the water supply to your fire sprinkler system. It is a critical component that must be kept accessible, clearly marked, and in proper working order at all times. We inspect FDC caps, clappers, and check valves as part of our hydrant service.

Caps & Threads
Clappers
Check Valves
Accessibility & Clearance

When are Fire Hydrants due for Inspection and Testing?

Annual Inspection & Flow Test

Fire hydrants are required to be flowed and inspected on annual intervals to keep the underground main flushed of rocks and debris, and to prevent booster pumps from being damaged during monthly and weekly tests or emergencies.

Required Annually

5-Year Interval Flow Test

Fire hydrants are also required to undergo a 5-year interval flow test. Performing this inspection checks pressure and tests for indication of any closed valves in the system.

Required Every 5 Years

Our Hydrant Services

Annual Flow Testing

We perform hydrant flow tests measuring static pressure, residual pressure, and flow rate per NFPA 291 to verify adequate water supply for fire suppression systems.

Visual Inspection

Inspection of hydrant condition, accessibility, barrel drainage, and operation — including opening and closing the hydrant to verify proper function and check for leaks.

Underground Main Flushing

Annual flowing of hydrants flushes the underground main of accumulated rocks, sediment, and debris that could damage pumps or restrict water flow during an emergency.

5-Year Pressure Test

A comprehensive flow test performed every five years to check system pressure and identify any closed or partially closed valves that could compromise fire protection.

FDC Inspection

Inspection of the Fire Department Connection including caps, clappers, threads, and check valves to ensure firefighters can connect quickly and reliably in an emergency.

Report Filing

We submit all inspection and flow test reports directly to your local AHJ or water authority — including through Brycer and BSI Online — so you stay compliant without the paperwork.

In God We Trust

Thank You for Choosing Hill Fire Protection