Which system employs automatic sprinklers connected to a water supply that immediately discharges water upon activation?

The wet pipe system is designed to provide immediate water discharge upon activation of its automatic sprinklers. In this system, the pipes are filled with water at all times, which means that when a sprinkler is triggered—typically due to heat from a fire—the water is released directly and immediately extinguishes or controls the fire. This rapid response is one of the key advantages of wet pipe systems, making them highly effective in many scenarios.

In comparison, other systems like dry pipe systems contain air or nitrogen in the pipes, which holds back water until a fire activates the system and the pressure drops, allowing water to flow in. Pre-action systems combine elements of both wet and dry systems, requiring a double activation process, which can introduce delays. Deluge systems release water from all spray nozzles simultaneously when activated, and are commonly used in high-hazard areas rather than typical fire scenarios where immediate localized suppression is required. The wet pipe system's constant water presence allows for a more straightforward and immediate response to fire emergencies, reinforcing its reliability and effectiveness in fire protection.