What typically minimizes false alarms in a sprinkler system?

The time delay feature of flow switches is an essential component in minimizing false alarms in a sprinkler system. This feature allows a certain amount of time to pass before triggering an alarm response when flow is detected in the system. The purpose of this delay is to differentiate between actual fire conditions and transient events, such as water hammer or minor disturbances in the system that may cause temporary flow. By not reacting immediately to flow detection, the system can prevent unnecessary alarms, which not only reduces the impact on first responders but also minimizes disruptions to occupants and property management.

Other options, while relevant to system performance, do not directly address the issue of false alarms in the same way. For example, hardwired connections enhance the reliability and integrity of the system but do not inherently reduce the likelihood of false alarms. Similarly, the number of sprinkler heads relates to coverage and efficiency, and water temperature detection primarily focuses on identifying fire conditions rather than preventing false alarms. Thus, the time delay feature is specifically designed to mitigate false alarms, making it the key factor in this context.