How Do I Choose the Right FireFlex System for My Application?

If you need to select a FireFlex system, the shortest answer is this:

• Choose FireFlex 1230 when you need a clean agent solution for water-sensitive spaces.
• Choose FireFlex DUAL when you need clean agent protection plus sprinkler backup in one integrated package.
• Choose FireFlex VACTEC when you need a vacuum-based dry pipe or preaction system, especially where faster water delivery or vacuum sprinkler technology is required.
• Choose FireFlex ICAF when you need compressed air foam for specific high-challenge hazards.
• Choose TOTALPAC 3 when you need a factory-assembled integrated sprinkler riser for standard indoor wet, dry, deluge, or preaction applications.
• Choose TOTALPAC X when you need a system for outdoor, corrosive, or freezing environments.

That is the selection shortcut. The rest of this article explains how to make the choice correctly and confidently.

Start with the 4 selection questions

Before comparing product families, define these four factors.

1. What type of hazard are you protecting?

Examples include:

• Data rooms and telecom spaces
• Museums and archives
• Industrial process hazards
• Aircraft hangars
• Outdoor process areas
• Freezing environments
• General commercial or industrial sprinkler zones

The hazard determines whether you need:

• water sprinkler protection,
• clean agent protection,
• compressed air foam,
• or a combined system.

2. Is the area water-sensitive?

If accidental or fire-related water discharge could damage critical assets, a clean agent or preaction-based approach may be more appropriate than a standard wet pipe system.

Typical water-sensitive spaces include:

• server rooms,
• telecom rooms,
• control rooms,
• archives,
• art storage,
• laboratories.

3. Where will the system be installed?

The environment often narrows the product choice quickly.

Consider:

• indoor conditioned spaces,
• outdoor locations,
• freezing areas,
• corrosive environments,
• areas requiring NEMA-rated enclosures,
• seismic considerations.

4. What release method or suppression strategy is required?

Depending on the product family, available approaches may include:

• wet pipe
• dry pipe
• deluge
• non-interlock preaction
• single interlock preaction
• double interlock preaction
• electric release
• pneumatic release
• electric/pneumatic combinations
• clean agent discharge
• compressed air foam discharge

Choose by suppression technology first

A practical way to select a FireFlex system is to start with the extinguishing method.

If you need a clean agent system, start with FireFlex 1230

FireFlex 1230 is the right starting point when you need clean, residue-free suppression for occupied or water-sensitive spaces.

According to FireFlex product documentation, the FireFlex 1230 integrated system is factory assembled in a cabinet, fully tested at the factory, and uses SEVO™ FFT-1230™ (FK-5-1-12) or earlier Novec 1230 references depending on document version. FireFlex documentation states the agent is dispensed as an odorless, electrically non-conductive vapor that leaves no residue, and the system is intended for Class A, B, and C fires. FireFlex documentation also cites FM Approval, UL/ULC listing, and alignment with NFPA 2001.

Typical applications for FireFlex 1230

FireFlex web content identifies applications such as:

• telecommunication centers
• server rooms and data storage
• control rooms
• art galleries and museums
• medical treatment centers and laboratories
• archives
• emergency diesel generators

Choose FireFlex 1230 when:

• the protected contents are sensitive to water
• you want a clean agent total flooding system
• the room can retain agent as required by design
• you need a compact, factory-integrated package
• you want a system commonly used in mission-critical spaces

FireFlex 1230 configuration notes

FireFlex documentation shows both:

• self-contained systems
• remote controlled systems

This makes it suitable for projects where control architecture, cabinet layout, or site conditions vary.

If you need clean agent plus sprinkler backup, choose FireFlex DUAL

FireFlex DUAL combines preaction sprinkler protection and clean agent suppression in one integrated assembly.

FireFlex documentation describes the system as an integrated preaction automatic sprinkler system combined with a clean agent fire extinguishing system, factory assembled and fully tested. Available datasheets show single interlock and double interlock versions, including self-contained and remote controlled configurations. The clean agent used is identified as SEVO™ FFT-1230™ (FK-5-1-12).

Choose FireFlex DUAL when:

• you need to protect water-sensitive contents but also want sprinkler backup
• the risk profile or owner preference calls for dual-agent protection
• the space benefits from a preaction system before sprinkler piping fills with water
• you want both systems factory integrated rather than assembled separately on site

Typical FireFlex DUAL use case

A common example is an IT, telecom, or control environment where:

• A clean agent is preferred for rapid, residue-free suppression.
• A sprinkler-based layer of protection is still required or desired.
• A preaction arrangement helps reduce accidental water discharge risk.

FireFlex DUAL configuration notes

Available FireFlex documentation confirms:

• single interlock
• double interlock
• self-contained
• remote controlled

That makes DUAL a strong fit when your design team needs more than a standard clean agent system.

If you need compressed air foam, choose FireFlex ICAF

FireFlex ICAF is the right place to start when the hazard calls for compressed air foam rather than clean agent or a conventional sprinkler-only arrangement.

FireFlex documentation describes ICAF as a fixed deluge-type fire suppression system that floods an area or hazard with compressed air foam through a piping system of open nozzles. The piping remains empty until activated by a pneumatic, electric, or manual release system. FireFlex documentation also states that ICAF systems include air supply equipment, water control, a foam tank, and a mixing chamber, all factory assembled, pre-wired, and factory tested.

Choose FireFlex ICAF when:

• the hazard is better suited to foam-based suppression
• you need open-nozzle total flooding over a hazard area
• you are protecting specialized industrial risks
• you need single-zone or multi-zone foam system arrangements

FireFlex ICAF application notes from FireFlex documentation

FireFlex documentation notes that ICAF can be used in several variations, including:

• applications where sprinkler protection already exists and ICAF acts as secondary protection
• applications where ICAF acts as primary protection
• local application hazards such as certain 3D fire scenarios or shielded hazards, including examples such as power transformers
• large-area applications such as aircraft hangars

FireFlex ICAF configuration notes

FireFlex documentation identifies:

• manual release
• pneumatic release
• electric release
• electric failsafe release
• self-contained
• remote controlled
• extension unit configurations

This is a specialized product family and should be selected when foam technology is part of the protection strategy from the start.

If you need a vacuum-based dry or preaction system, choose FireFlex VACTEC

FireFlex VACTEC is the best starting point when your design requires vacuum sprinkler technology for dry pipe or preaction systems.

FireFlex documentation describes VACTEC as a factory-assembled integrated fire protection system with vacuum trim, pre-assembled, pre-wired, and factory tested. The documentation identifies:

• dry-pipe vacuum sprinkler systems
• single interlock preaction
• double interlock preaction
• non-interlock preaction
• fail-safe vacuum dry pipe
• fail-safe vacuum non-interlock preaction

The documents also state that VACTEC uses closed vacuum sprinklers specified for vacuum use and incorporates the FLX-PC® vacuum pressure controller for supervision and vacuum pump control.

Choose FireFlex VACTEC when:

• the system design specifically calls for vacuum sprinkler technology
• you are comparing dry pipe and vacuum-based alternatives
• you need preaction protection in freezing areas
• water delivery time performance is an important design consideration
• you want a highly integrated factory package for vacuum-based applications

VACTEC installation characteristics

FireFlex documentation notes that required field connections typically include:

• water supply inlet
• water discharge outlet
• main drain
• alarm or detection connections
• AC power

That supports faster, more standardized field installation compared with site-built assemblies.

If you need a standard integrated sprinkler riser package, choose TOTALPAC 3

TOTALPAC 3 is the most broadly applicable starting point when you need a factory-assembled integrated sprinkler system for standard indoor projects.

FireFlex documentation describes TOTALPAC 3 as an integrated fire protection system with electrical and mechanical components contained in one unit, pre-assembled, pre-wired, and factory tested. Available documentation confirms a wide range of configurations, including:

• wet pipe
• dry pipe
• HP dry pipe
• deluge
• preaction non-interlock
• preaction single interlock
• preaction double interlock

FireFlex materials also highlight standard features such as factory assembly/testing, galvanized trim piping, corrosion-resistant cabinet construction, and compact installation.

Choose TOTALPAC 3 when:

• you need a packaged sprinkler riser for indoor use
• you need wet, dry, deluge, or preaction protection
• you want broad configuration flexibility
• you want a standard product family used across many common sprinkler applications

When TOTALPAC 3 is often the right answer

Use TOTALPAC 3 as your baseline option when:

• the environment is not unusually corrosive or outdoor-exposed,
• the hazard does not require clean agent or foam,
• and a standard integrated sprinkler package is appropriate.

TOTALPAC 3 configuration notes

FireFlex web content and datasheets show configuration depth that includes:

• pneumatic or electric preaction releases
• multiple control panel options
• remote controlled and self-contained arrangements
• modular options such as flanged connections and seismic options in some configurations

That flexibility makes TOTALPAC 3 a strong “default starting family” for many sprinkler-based projects.

If the project is outdoors or corrosive, choose TOTALPAC X

TOTALPAC X is the best starting point when the installation environment is the primary selection driver.

FireFlex web content describes TOTALPAC X as being built for outdoor installations and corrosive environments. FireFlex documentation further states that the unit is designed to be installed where it will be subjected to outdoors and/or freezing conditions, with heating options considered where required. The documentation also references enclosure options including NEMA 3 and NEMA 4, depending on configuration.

Choose TOTALPAC X when:

• the system will be installed outdoors
• the site is exposed to freezing conditions
• the environment is corrosive or washdown-prone
• the enclosure type is a major design factor
• you need a packaged system tailored to harsh service conditions

TOTALPAC X available system types

FireFlex documentation and web content identify a broad offering that includes:

• wet pipe
• dry pipe
• deluge
• preaction
• Surefire® preaction
• Firecycle® configurations

Practical rule

If your first concern is environmental exposure, start with TOTALPAC X, then narrow the exact system type.

If your first concern is suppression method, start with the suppression family first, then confirm whether an outdoor-specific package is required.

If you need a clean agent system, start with FireFlex 1230

FireFlex 1230 is the right starting point when you need clean, residue-free suppression for occupied or water-sensitive spaces.

According to FireFlex product documentation, the FireFlex 1230 integrated system is factory assembled in a cabinet, fully tested at the factory, and uses SEVO™ FFT-1230™ (FK-5-1-12) or earlier Novec 1230 references depending on document version. FireFlex documentation states the agent is dispensed as an odorless, electrically non-conductive vapor that leaves no residue, and the system is intended for Class A, B, and C fires. FireFlex documentation also cites FM Approval, UL/ULC listing, and alignment with NFPA 2001.

Typical applications for FireFlex 1230

FireFlex web content identifies applications such as:

• telecommunication centers
• server rooms and data storage
• control rooms
• art galleries and museums
• medical treatment centers and laboratories
• archives
• emergency diesel generators

Choose FireFlex 1230 when:

• the protected contents are sensitive to water
• you want a clean agent total flooding system
• the room can retain agent as required by design
• you need a compact, factory-integrated package
• you want a system commonly used in mission-critical spaces

FireFlex 1230 configuration notes

FireFlex documentation shows both:

• self-contained systems
• remote controlled systems

This makes it suitable for projects where control architecture, cabinet layout, or site conditions vary.

If you need clean agent plus sprinkler backup, choose FireFlex DUAL

FireFlex DUAL combines preaction sprinkler protection and clean agent suppression in one integrated assembly.

FireFlex documentation describes the system as an integrated preaction automatic sprinkler system combined with a clean agent fire extinguishing system, factory assembled and fully tested. Available datasheets show single interlock and double interlock versions, including self-contained and remote controlled configurations. The clean agent used is identified as SEVO™ FFT-1230™ (FK-5-1-12).

Choose FireFlex DUAL when:

• you need to protect water-sensitive contents but also want sprinkler backup
• the risk profile or owner preference calls for dual-agent protection
• the space benefits from a preaction system before sprinkler piping fills with water
• you want both systems factory integrated rather than assembled separately on site

Typical FireFlex DUAL use case

A common example is an IT, telecom, or control environment where:

• A clean agent is preferred for rapid, residue-free suppression.
• A sprinkler-based layer of protection is still required or desired.
• A preaction arrangement helps reduce accidental water discharge risk.

FireFlex DUAL configuration notes

Available FireFlex documentation confirms:

• single interlock
• double interlock
• self-contained
• remote controlled

That makes DUAL a strong fit when your design team needs more than a standard clean agent system.

If you need compressed air foam, choose FireFlex ICAF

FireFlex ICAF is the right place to start when the hazard calls for compressed air foam rather than clean agent or a conventional sprinkler-only arrangement.

FireFlex documentation describes ICAF as a fixed deluge-type fire suppression system that floods an area or hazard with compressed air foam through a piping system of open nozzles. The piping remains empty until activated by a pneumatic, electric, or manual release system. FireFlex documentation also states that ICAF systems include air supply equipment, water control, a foam tank, and a mixing chamber, all factory assembled, pre-wired, and factory tested. Source: FireFlex ICAF knowledge vault results.

Choose FireFlex ICAF when:

• the hazard is better suited to foam-based suppression
• you need open-nozzle total flooding over a hazard area
• you are protecting specialized industrial risks
• you need single-zone or multi-zone foam system arrangements

FireFlex ICAF application notes from FireFlex documentation

FireFlex documentation notes that ICAF can be used in several variations, including:

• applications where sprinkler protection already exists and ICAF acts as secondary protection
• applications where ICAF acts as primary protection
• local application hazards such as certain 3D fire scenarios or shielded hazards, including examples such as power transformers
• large-area applications such as aircraft hangars

FireFlex ICAF configuration notes

FireFlex documentation identifies:

• manual release
• pneumatic release
• electric release
• electric failsafe release
• self-contained
• remote controlled
• extension unit configurations

This is a specialized product family and should be selected when foam technology is part of the protection strategy from the start.

If you need a vacuum-based dry or preaction system, choose FireFlex VACTEC

FireFlex VACTEC is the best starting point when your design requires vacuum sprinkler technology for dry pipe or preaction systems.

FireFlex documentation describes VACTEC as a factory-assembled integrated fire protection system with vacuum trim, pre-assembled, pre-wired, and factory tested. The documentation identifies:

• dry-pipe vacuum sprinkler systems
• single interlock preaction
• double interlock preaction
• non-interlock preaction
• fail-safe vacuum dry pipe
• fail-safe vacuum non-interlock preaction

The documents also state that VACTEC uses closed vacuum sprinklers specified for vacuum use and incorporates the FLX-PC® vacuum pressure controller for supervision and vacuum pump control. Source: FireFlex VACTEC knowledge vault results.

Choose FireFlex VACTEC when:

• the system design specifically calls for vacuum sprinkler technology
• you are comparing dry pipe and vacuum-based alternatives
• you need preaction protection in freezing areas
• water delivery time performance is an important design consideration
• you want a highly integrated factory package for vacuum-based applications

VACTEC installation characteristics

FireFlex documentation notes that required field connections typically include:

• water supply inlet
• water discharge outlet
• main drain
• alarm or detection connections
• AC power

That supports faster, more standardized field installation compared with site-built assemblies.

If you need a standard integrated sprinkler riser package, choose TOTALPAC 3

TOTALPAC 3 is the most broadly applicable starting point when you need a factory-assembled integrated sprinkler system for standard indoor projects.

FireFlex documentation describes TOTALPAC 3 as an integrated fire protection system with electrical and mechanical components contained in one unit, pre-assembled, pre-wired, and factory tested. Available documentation confirms a wide range of configurations, including:

• wet pipe
• dry pipe
• HP dry pipe
• deluge
• preaction non-interlock
• preaction single interlock
• preaction double interlock

FireFlex materials also highlight standard features such as factory assembly/testing, galvanized trim piping, corrosion-resistant cabinet construction, and compact installation.

Choose TOTALPAC 3 when:

• you need a packaged sprinkler riser for indoor use
• you need wet, dry, deluge, or preaction protection
• you want broad configuration flexibility
• you want a standard product family used across many common sprinkler applications

When TOTALPAC 3 is often the right answer

Use TOTALPAC 3 as your baseline option when:

• the environment is not unusually corrosive or outdoor-exposed,
• the hazard does not require clean agent or foam,
• and a standard integrated sprinkler package is appropriate.

TOTALPAC 3 configuration notes

FireFlex web content and datasheets show configuration depth that includes:

• pneumatic or electric preaction releases
• multiple control panel options
• remote controlled and self-contained arrangements
• modular options such as flanged connections and seismic options in some configurations

That flexibility makes TOTALPAC 3 a strong “default starting family” for many sprinkler-based projects.

If the project is outdoors or corrosive, choose TOTALPAC X

TOTALPAC X is the best starting point when the installation environment is the primary selection driver.

FireFlex web content describes TOTALPAC X as being built for outdoor installations and corrosive environments. FireFlex documentation further states that the unit is designed to be installed where it will be subjected to outdoors and/or freezing conditions, with heating options considered where required. The documentation also references enclosure options including NEMA 3 and NEMA 4, depending on configuration.

Choose TOTALPAC X when:

• the system will be installed outdoors
• the site is exposed to freezing conditions
• the environment is corrosive or washdown-prone
• the enclosure type is a major design factor
• you need a packaged system tailored to harsh service conditions

TOTALPAC X available system types

FireFlex documentation and web content identify a broad offering that includes:

• wet pipe
• dry pipe
• deluge
• preaction
• Surefire® preaction
• Firecycle® configurations

Practical rule

If your first concern is environmental exposure, start with TOTALPAC X, then narrow the exact system type.

If your first concern is suppression method, start with the suppression family first, then confirm whether an outdoor-specific package is required.

If your top priority is...	Best starting product family
Protecting a water-sensitive room with a clean agent	FireFlex 1230
Clean agent plus sprinkler backup	FireFlex DUAL
Compressed air foam suppression	FireFlex ICAF
Vacuum-based dry pipe or preaction	FireFlex VACTEC
Standard indoor integrated sprinkler riser package	TOTALPAC 3
Outdoor, freezing, or corrosive environment	TOTALPAC X

How to Narrow the Choice Between Preaction, Dry Pipe, Deluge, and Wet Pipe

After choosing the product family, the next step is choosing the system style.

Wet pipe

Use wet pipe when:

• the space is heated,
• accidental freeze conditions are not expected,
• and the simplest sprinkler arrangement is appropriate.

Dry pipe

Use dry pipe when:

• piping is installed in areas subject to freezing,
• and water should not remain in the piping under normal conditions.

Preaction

Use preaction when:

• the hazard is water-sensitive,
• accidental discharge risk must be reduced,
• or detection must occur before water enters the piping.

FireFlex product documentation shows different interlock approaches depending on family and configuration.

Deluge

Use deluge when:

• you need open-nozzle discharge,
• the hazard requires rapid flooding of the protected area,
• or the suppression concept is based on immediate open discharge.

Foam or clean agent

Use foam or clean agent when the hazard cannot be addressed optimally with a conventional sprinkler-only strategy.

How Environment Changes the FireFlex System Decision

Even if two systems can protect the same hazard, the installation environment may settle the decision.

Conditioned indoor, general sprinkler project

Start with TOTALPAC 3.

Mission-critical indoor room, sensitive contents

Start with FireFlex 1230 or FireFlex DUAL.

Freezing area requiring preaction or dry system

Start with FireFlex VACTEC, TOTALPAC 3 dry/preaction, or TOTALPAC X depending on technology and exposure.

Outdoor or corrosive application

Start with TOTALPAC X.

Specialized industrial foam hazard

Start with FireFlex ICAF.

When to use the FireFlex System Selector

Once you know the likely product family, the best next step is to use the FireFlex System Selector to refine the configuration and generate project-specific outputs.

Use the System Selector when you need to:

• compare available configurations
• choose release options
• evaluate product family compatibility
• prepare a quote request
• move from concept selection to project definition

Common selection mistakes to avoid

Common selection mistakes to avoid

1. Choosing by agent before confirming the environment

A technically correct suppression method can still be the wrong package if the enclosure, climate, or exposure is unsuitable.

2. Treating all preaction systems as interchangeable

Preaction configuration details matter. Non-interlock, single interlock, and double interlock systems do not behave the same way.

3. Ignoring water sensitivity

If the protected contents are sensitive to water damage, evaluate FireFlex 1230, FireFlex DUAL, or preaction-based options before defaulting to a standard wet pipe arrangement.

4. Ignoring harsh-site conditions

If the unit will be outdoors or in corrosive/freezing service, start with TOTALPAC X instead of trying to adapt a standard indoor package.

5. Waiting too long to involve configuration tools

Using the System Selector early can reduce redesign, shorten selection time, and improve specification accuracy.

Recommended selection workflow

Recommended selection workflow

Use this step-by-step process.

Step 1: Define the hazard

Clarify what is being protected and what fire scenario is expected.

Step 2: Define the consequence of water discharge

If water damage is unacceptable, prioritize clean agent, DUAL, or preaction approaches.

Step 3: Define the environment

Indoor, outdoor, freezing, corrosive, or specialty conditions.

Step 4: Choose the suppression family

- Clean agent: FireFlex 1230
- Dual agent: FireFlex DUAL
- Compressed air foam: FireFlex ICAF
- Vacuum-based dry/preaction: FireFlex VACTEC
- Standard sprinkler package: TOTALPAC 3
- Outdoor/corrosive/freeze-resistant package: TOTALPAC X

Step 5: Choose the system style

Wet, dry, preaction, deluge, and the relevant release method.

Step 6: Use the FireFlex System Selector

Refine the configuration and gather output for quoting, submittals, or further design review.

Final recommendation

If you are unsure where to begin, use this simple rule:

• Start with FireFlex 1230 for clean agent rooms.
• Start with FireFlex DUAL for dual-agent protection.
• Start with FireFlex ICAF for foam hazards.
• Start with FireFlex VACTEC for vacuum dry pipe or vacuum preaction.
• Start with TOTALPAC 3 for most standard indoor sprinkler applications.
• Start with TOTALPAC X for outdoor, corrosive, or freezing environments.

Then use the System Selector to confirm the exact configuration.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the easiest FireFlex family to start with for a standard sprinkler project?
For many indoor sprinkler applications, TOTALPAC 3 is the most practical starting point because it covers wet pipe, dry pipe, deluge, and multiple preaction configurations in a factory-assembled package.

What FireFlex system is best for server rooms or telecom rooms?
FireFlex 1230 is a strong starting point for water-sensitive spaces. FireFlex DUAL is worth considering if you need both clean agent protection and sprinkler backup.

What is the difference between FireFlex 1230 and FireFlex DUAL?
FireFlex 1230 is a clean agent system. FireFlex DUAL combines a clean agent system with a preaction automatic sprinkler system in one integrated assembly.

When should I choose FireFlex VACTEC instead of a standard dry pipe or preaction system?
Choose FireFlex VACTEC when the project specifically requires vacuum sprinkler technology, or when vacuum-based dry or preaction performance is part of the design intent.

When should I choose FireFlex ICAF?
Choose FireFlex ICAF when the hazard requires compressed air foam rather than a standard sprinkler or clean agent approach, especially for specialized industrial or high-challenge fire risks.

What FireFlex product is designed for outdoor or corrosive environments?
TOTALPAC X is specifically positioned for outdoor installations and corrosive environments and is designed for exposure to freezing and harsh site conditions.

Can FireFlex systems be factory assembled and tested?
Yes. FireFlex documentation across these product families repeatedly states that systems are factory assembled, pre-wired, and factory tested.

Where should I go after selecting a product family?
Use the FireFlex System Selector to refine the system configuration and move toward project documentation or quotation.