What is the required start method for weekly fire pump testing?

• A. Automatic
• B. Manual
• C. Remote-controlled
• D. Not specified

Answer: (A)

The main idea being tested is that weekly fire pump testing must verify the pump can start automatically, without someone needing to push a start button. In weekly tests, the system is set up to energize the pump through its automatic start signal—such as a pressure or flow switch or a start signal from the fire alarm system—so the pump comes online on demand. This ensures the automatic control circuit, wiring, and indicators are functioning properly and that the pump will start when needed in an actual emergency. Starting the pump manually doesn't check the automatic control sequence, and remote-controlled startup isn't the standard method for this weekly test. Saying it isn’t specified would ignore the requirement to validate automatic starting.