Frequently Asked Questions

Whilst Fire Mist Solutions systems are straightforward to install, compliance with BS8458 requires that installation, commissioning, and ongoing maintenance are carried out by an approved installer. Every approved installer holds third-party accreditation and carries all required insurance, ensuring complete peace of mind.

The system needs to be serviced once a year. Fire Mist Solutions maintains an internal record of every installation and will contact you by email, text, telephone, or post several weeks ahead of the service due date. Regular maintenance is vital to ensure the system operates correctly should a fire occur.

Yes, Fire Mist Solutions systems have been specifically designed for retrofit installation.

Fire Mist Solutions systems can be fitted in all property categories covered by British Standard BS:8458. This includes: Domestic properties – Single-household dwellings including: detached and semi-detached houses, individual flats, maisonettes, mobile or transportable homes, houses in multiple occupation (HMOs), B&B accommodation, boarding houses, and blocks of flats up to 18m in height with a combined floor area not exceeding 2,400 square metres. Residential properties – Blocks of flats exceeding 18m in height, sheltered housing and extra care facilities, care homes, residential rehabilitation centres, dormitories (such as those linked to schools or universities), and hostels.

The nozzle is not triggered by smoke. The glass activation bulb inside the nozzle will only rupture when exposed to a direct flame reaching a temperature of at least +57°C (135°F). Likewise, opening an oven door near a nozzle will not cause activation, as the heat disperses almost immediately into the surrounding air.

Yes. Fire Mist Solutions systems have been tested and are fully compliant with BS8458.

Yes, all flexible tubing and high-pressure hose used within Fire Mist Solutions systems must sit behind a fire-rated barrier. A 60-minute fire rating is preferred, though a minimum of 30 minutes is acceptable under Building Regulations. In situations where a fire barrier cannot be fitted — for instance, on a concrete ceiling — Stainless Steel 316 rigid pipework should be used as an alternative.

The momentum of the water mist spray loses its force rapidly once discharged, meaning the dispersed droplets are generally harmless beyond one metre from the nozzle.

Hard water contains elevated levels of minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium carbonates, bicarbonates, and sulphates. These mineral deposits typically form where water is flowing. Because the water within the mist system is static and held at low pressure, deposits do not build up at the nozzles.

No — this is a common misconception. Only the individual nozzle whose frangible glass bulb has been broken by heat will discharge water, so activation is localised to the area of the fire.

All nozzles and system components are manufactured from corrosion-resistant materials to guard against blockages. The nozzle heads undergo a specialist treatment to protect against corrosion, and the metals were selected following guidance from a leading university metallurgy expert. Filters are fitted at each nozzle as standard. It is important to note that good water quality is essential; where there is any uncertainty, water testing is recommended before installation. Inspecting the heads for any signs of blockage is included as part of the annual service.