Fire Pumps Explained – Jockey, Main & Diesel Pump Functions

Illustration of jockey pump, main pump, and diesel pump used in fire fighting systems
Fire Pumps Explained – Jockey, Main & Diesel Pump Functions

🔥 Fire Pumps Explained – Jockey, Main & Diesel Pump Functions

When it comes to fire fighting systems, the heart of the setup is the fire pump. Without a properly designed and maintained fire pump system, even the best hydrants or sprinklers won’t function effectively during an emergency.

At SSE&S Engineers, we specialize in designing, installing, and maintaining fire hydrant and sprinkler systems powered by reliable fire pumps. In this blog, we explain the functions of Jockey, Main, and Diesel Pumps—the three critical components of a modern fire fighting pump room.


🚒 What is a Fire Pump in Fire Fighting Systems?

A fire pump is a part of a fire fighting system that ensures adequate water pressure is delivered to hydrants, sprinklers, and risers during a fire emergency. As per NBC 2016 (National Building Code of India) and IS 15105:2021 standards, fire pumps are mandatory for high-rise buildings, commercial complexes, factories, and warehouses.

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⚙️ Types of Fire Pumps in a Fire Fighting System

1. 🟢 Jockey Pump (Pressure Maintenance Pump)

  • Purpose: Maintains constant pressure in the fire fighting pipeline.

  • Function: Compensates for small pressure drops due to leakage or minor usage.

  • Importance: Prevents unnecessary running of the main pump.

👉 Think of the jockey pump as the “pressure guard” that ensures the system is always ready without wasting energy.

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2. 🔵 Main Pump (Electric-Driven Fire Pump)

  • Purpose: Supplies high-pressure water during a fire emergency.

  • Function: Activates automatically when pressure drops below a set level.

  • Capacity: Designed to meet the building’s required discharge as per IS/NBC standards.

  • Importance: This is the primary pump that provides water to hydrants and sprinklers to suppress fire.

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3. 🔴 Diesel Pump (Standby Fire Pump)

  • Purpose: Works as a backup in case of power failure.

  • Function: Diesel engine starts automatically to maintain water supply during fire emergencies.

  • Importance: Critical for life safety compliance, as many fire incidents occur with power outages.

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🏢 Why Proper Fire Pump Installation & Maintenance Matters

  • Ensures NBC 2016 fire safety compliance

  • Provides uninterrupted water supply during fire emergencies

  • Reduces insurance risks for buildings and industries

  • Saves lives and protects property

At SSE&S Engineers, we provide:
✅ Fire pump installation (jockey, main, and diesel pumps)
✅ AMC & maintenance services
✅ Testing and commissioning as per IS 15105 & NBC 2016
✅ End-to-end fire protection solutions for residential, commercial, and industrial buildings

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🔐 Conclusion

A fire fighting system is only as strong as its fire pumps. The jockey pump maintains readiness, the main pump supplies high-pressure water, and the diesel pump ensures backup during power failure.

If you’re planning a fire fighting system installation in Delhi NCR or looking for trusted fire pump contractors in India, SSE&S Engineers is your partner of choice.

👉 Contact us today to ensure your building is fully protected with world-class fire pump installation and maintenance services.