Which of the following is not a typical protective feature on NFPA 20 controllers?

• A. Alarms for low suction
• B. High discharge alarm
• C. Pump running indicator
• D. A rapid-start feature

Answer: (D)

The function of protective features on NFPA 20 controllers is to detect abnormal conditions and alert or prevent operation to safeguard the pump and system. An alarm for low suction protects against cavitation and damage from insufficient suction by signaling the issue. A high discharge alarm warns when discharge pressure is excessive, indicating a potential problem in the system. A pump running indicator provides a clear status that the pump is actually operating, which helps verify that the system is delivering water and assists in troubleshooting.

A rapid-start feature, however, is not a protective function. It relates to how quickly the pump starts, focusing on start-up speed rather than monitoring conditions or indicating status. Since it doesn’t serve to detect faults or warn of unsafe conditions, it isn’t considered a typical protective feature on NFPA 20 controllers.