What is a disadvantage of a wet-pipe sprinkler system in colder climates?

A wet-pipe sprinkler system is designed to contain water within its piping at all times, making it effective for fire suppression in many environments. However, in colder climates, a significant disadvantage is that the water within the pipes can freeze if the temperature drops significantly. When this occurs, the water expands and can cause the pipes to burst, compromising the integrity of the system. If a fire occurs and the system is frozen, it will be inoperable, which poses a substantial risk.

The other options, while they may present challenges under certain circumstances, do not specifically relate to the inherent design and operational vulnerabilities of wet-pipe systems in cold conditions. While maintenance is always necessary for fire suppression systems, wet-pipe systems are typically considered lower maintenance compared to other types. The extinguishment speed of fires is determined by various factors, including the type of system and the presence of enough water pressure, not primarily by whether the system is wet or dry. Installation costs can vary widely based on many factors, but cold weather vulnerability is directly tied to the issue of freezing pipes, making that the most pertinent concern in this context.