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Before setting up your sprinkler system there are several things you need to consider. Work out how much land and property are you looking to protect, what the terrain is like, how much water you have available and how long that supply will last.
You should also talk to a plumber to make sure you have enough water pressure and the right equipment to help protect your home.
One of the most important things is to always buy good quality metal fittings and sprinklers. During a bushfire, plastic ones will melt and your home won't be protected.
During a bushfire, one of the most effective ways to protect your home is to use the garden hose to wet the vegetation and grass around your house. The damper it is, the more it will help to reduce the intensity of the fire. Also, keep buckets of water and other large containers full of water to help extinguish spot fires.
Putting sprinklers on your roof can reduce the impact of radiant heat, ember attacks and direct contact with the fire. Mount sprinklers at the gutter line and angle them to spray outwards. This way, they will spray water onto the roof and onto the walls below. Butterfly sprinklers can be joined together with galvanised pipe to make a series of them to cover the length of your roof.
During a bushfire, you may lose power and mains water pressure. If you need to defend your home, a generator and an independent water supply will ensure that you can continue to access water. Pumps and generators should be able to pump 400 litres per minute. Hoses from the pump should be long enough to reach all corners of your home. They should also be durable, flexible and able to withstand high temperatures.
Make sure that other family members know how to start and operate your generator. For this reason, generators with a push-button start are preferable to a pull-start.
Your local fire authority can help you make the decision early whether you want to leave or to stay and defend your property. If you are planning to stay, having access to power and water and the right equipment will help you to protect your home.
For more information about being prepared, visit your local fire authority website:
Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.
When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.
