What is a jockey pump and its purpose?

• A. A device to prime pumps.
• B. A small pump that maintains system pressure to minimize cycling of the main fire pump.
• C. A backup for the standby power.
• D. A check valve.

Answer: (B)

A jockey pump is a small auxiliary pump whose job is to keep the fire protection system pressure up so the large fire pump doesn’t start and stop for every small pressure drop. It’s connected to the system and controlled by a pressure switch: when system pressure falls below its set point, the jockey pump starts and brings the pressure back up; when the pressure reaches its upper limit, it stops. This keeps the system pressure steady during normal use and minor leaks, reduces wear and energy use on the main pump, and minimizes nuisance starts.

It isn’t used to prime pumps, it isn’t a standby power backup, and it isn’t a check valve.