What is the primary function of smoke dampers in HVAC systems?

What is the primary function of smoke dampers in HVAC systems?

• A. To regulate temperature
• B. To prevent smoke from spreading
• C. To improve energy efficiency
• D. To filter air pollutants

Answer: (B)

The primary function of smoke dampers in HVAC systems is to prevent smoke from spreading during a fire. These devices are installed within ductwork and help to contain smoke within a certain area of a building, effectively limiting smoke migration to other parts of the structure. This is crucial because smoke can pose significant health risks and complicate evacuation procedures during a fire incident. The NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) standards emphasize the importance of smoke containment to protect occupants and facilitate emergency response efforts. While regulating temperature, improving energy efficiency, and filtering air pollutants may be functions of other components within an HVAC system, they do not pertain to the specific purpose of smoke dampers. Smoke dampers are primarily a safety feature aimed at enhancing fire protection measures in buildings, which is why their role in smoke control is vital for life safety and property protection.

The primary function of smoke dampers in HVAC systems is to prevent smoke from spreading during a fire. These devices are installed within ductwork and help to contain smoke within a certain area of a building, effectively limiting smoke migration to other parts of the structure. This is crucial because smoke can pose significant health risks and complicate evacuation procedures during a fire incident. The NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) standards emphasize the importance of smoke containment to protect occupants and facilitate emergency response efforts.

While regulating temperature, improving energy efficiency, and filtering air pollutants may be functions of other components within an HVAC system, they do not pertain to the specific purpose of smoke dampers. Smoke dampers are primarily a safety feature aimed at enhancing fire protection measures in buildings, which is why their role in smoke control is vital for life safety and property protection.