NICET Level 1 Water Based Systems Practice Exam 2025 – Complete Prep Guide

The term "K-factor" refers to a measure of the discharge capability of a sprinkler head, which is critical in the design and performance of fire suppression systems. The K-factor is a value that indicates the flow rate of water emitted from a sprinkler head for a given pressure. Specifically, it represents the relationship between the pressure (in pounds per square inch) and the flow rate (in gallons per minute) that the sprinkler can provide.

Understanding the K-factor allows engineers and designers to calculate how much water will be released in an area to effectively control or extinguish a fire. Different sprinkler heads have different K-factors, which is why this measure is essential when selecting the appropriate sprinkler for a specific application. A higher K-factor indicates a greater discharge capacity, which can be suitable for areas with high hazards.

The other choices do not accurately capture the defined role of the K-factor in sprinkler systems. While the measurement of water storage capacity, standards for installation, and types of fire hose connections are important in fire safety and plumbing, they do not relate to the discharge capability of individual sprinkler heads.