How is the spacing of residential sprinklers determined according to NFPA 13?

The spacing of residential sprinklers is primarily determined by the room's shape and dimensions as outlined in NFPA 13. This is essential because the effectiveness of a sprinkler system in controlling or extinguishing a fire heavily relies on adequate spacing that allows water to reach all areas of the room effectively. Each room's unique dimensions—such as length, width, and overall configuration—directly impact how far apart sprinklers can be installed to ensure complete coverage without any gaps.

Understanding the shape of the room also influences factors such as the anticipated water spray pattern, which is crucial for suppressing fire growth. Properly assessing these physical characteristics ensures that the sprinklers can operate optimally according to prescribed guidelines, thereby enhancing safety and compliance with fire protection standards in residential settings. Thus, the arrangement and spacing of the sprinklers must be carefully considered to accommodate the specific features of the space being protected.