iMist™ Water Mist Fire Suppression – FAQ

What is a water mist fire suppression system?

A water mist system releases fine, high-pressure droplets to rapidly cool flames, reduce oxygen near a fire, and suppress it efficiently. Unlike traditional sprinklers, it uses far less water, minimising damage to your home while keeping you safe.

Can water mist systems handle kitchen fires?

Yes. Certain water mist systems are designed to tackle cooking oil fires safely. The fine mist quickly cools flames and prevents re-ignition, which far safer than throwing water on hot oil.

Do I need a water tank?

No, as long as the incoming water supply meets the requirements for the system. Contact iMist today for more information.

Is water mist safe around electricity?

Yes. The tiny water droplets evaporate quickly, reducing the risk of electrical conductivity and making water mist systems safe for areas with electrical equipment when correctly installed.

Will a the iMist system flood my home?

No. The iMist System uses up to 80% less water than traditional sprinklers, keeping water damage to a minimum while still providing excellent fire protection. Link to system design:

Can water mist systems be retrofitted into existing homes?

Absolutely. Modern water mist systems are designed for easy retrofitting, even in older or heritage properties, with minimal disruption. Find out more here.

Are water mist systems only for commercial buildings?

No. Water mist is also ideal for homes, flats, care homes, and heritage properties, combining aesthetically discreet design with powerful fire suppression.

Are water mist systems proven and certified?

Yes. Water mist technology is internationally certified and tested, meeting stringent standards such as BS 8489 and BS EN 14972, and is trusted in residential properties across the UK and Europe. iMist hold test certificates for both of these standards.

How do I maintain a water mist system?

Maintenance is straightforward and performed by iMist-trained engineers. Regular checks ensure the system operates effectively and keeps your home fully protected. Because it’s an in-house, unique system, it doesn’t require external BAFE or FIRAS certification.

Can the iMist system be connected to a fire panel?

• Yes, the iMist system can be connected to a variety of things, including:
• Fire Alarm Panels
• Auto-dial Systems
• Automatic Opening Vents (AOVs)

How big are the nozzles and hoses?

The hole required for the nozzle is 76mm, and the nozzle protrudes from the ceiling by 22mm. The hoses are measured at 15mm with a 22mm connection.

How big is the pump?

The pumps come in two sizes, for residential and domestic properties.
Domestic pumps are: Height – 400mm, Depth – 300mm, Length – 500mm, Weight – 35KG.
Residential pumps measure to: Height – 700mm, Depth – 400mm, Length – 900mm, Weight – 125KG.

Please note, you will need to allow 100mm of extra space around the pump for installation and pipework.

How do water mist fire suppression systems work?

The iMist suppression system and traditional fire sprinkler systems operate in a similar manner when it comes to activation in the event of a fire. Both systems wet the surface of the fuel and the surrounding area, to cool and suppress the fire like a blanket of water. However, only the water mist fire suppression systems work in all three ways simultaneously, with minimal water to extinguish a fire;

1. Upon activation of a water mist nozzle, the system will begin to discharge high-pressure water mist. The
   mist will fill the 16m2 area (per nozzle) with a fine mist, which will travel around the room, dampen all
   surfaces it can get to and thus, restrict fire spreading.
2. When the water is discharged at a high pressure, the room temperature is reduced dramatically due to
   a reaction between the fast-moving, colder air molecules and water molecules against the heat from
   the fire, much like cold air displacing hot air.
3. As the water mist has direct contact with the flame, it turns into steam. The steam particles then
   displace the oxygen particles around the fire and thus suffocates the fire.

Unlike many Hollywood films, only the nozzles situated in the area of the fire will release the mist.

How many nozzles will I need?

Each nozzle covers 16m² or 172 sq. ft, so it would depend on how many rooms are in the property, as well as the size of the rooms. Please note that this is a rough guideline, and the number of nozzles required can be affected by things such as the height of your ceilings. Each design and quote is unique to your floorplan, so our team will be able to provide you with an accurate count, once you have submitted your floor plans to us. You can send us your floor plans here.

What is the cost of an iMist System?

The price for the iMist Fire Suppression system will depend on the number of nozzles and pumps required, as well as the amount of pipework required to complete the job. Once you have sent your floor plans/blueprints across to our sales team, they will be able to organise a quotation for the project.

What is the difference between fire protection, prevention, and suppression?

1. Fire protection refers to the steps taken to reduce the risk of fire, including the use of fire-resistant materials, proper installation of electrical systems, and regular maintenance of equipment. The goal of fire protection is to prevent fires from starting in the first place.
2. Fire prevention involves measures taken to prevent fires from occurring, such as educating people about fire safety, enforcing fire codes, and conducting regular inspections of buildings and equipment. Fire prevention is focused on identifying potential fire hazards and taking steps to mitigate them before a fire can occur.
3. Fire suppression refers to the actions taken to put out a fire once it has started. This can include using fire extinguishers, sprinkler systems, or calling the fire department. The goal of fire suppression is to quickly extinguish the fire and minimize damage to property and people

In summary, fire protection focuses on preventing fires from starting, fire prevention is about reducing the likelihood of fires, and fire suppression is about quickly responding to and extinguishing fires that have started.

I want the system pipework exposed; can you do this?

Our system is designed to be fitted behind a 30-minute fire resistant plasterboard barrier. If you cannot provide us with this, then we would install solid fixed stainless-steel pipework. This pipework is, however, very small compared to a typical fire sprinkler system.

In the films, all the nozzles/heads go off at once, will this happen in my house?

No, that is a Hollywood myth. It will only be the nozzle where the fast-response bulb breaks that will be activated in the unfortunate event of a fire.

Will I get a certificate after installation, to give to my Building Control?

Yes, once your system has been installed and commissioned, you will receive a completion certificate via email from iMist.