Deflector Distance is the distance from the sprinkler deflector to what?

• A. Obstruction
• B. Floor
• C. Ceiling
• D. Wall

Answer: (A)

Deflector distance is the distance from the sprinkler deflector to the nearest obstruction that could block or deflect the water spray. This matters because any obstacle close to the deflector can shadow parts of the protected area or alter the spray pattern, reducing coverage. In residential low-rise systems, designers must ensure there isn’t an obstruction within the specified proximity so the water distribution reaches the intended floor area rather than being interrupted or diverted. The floor, ceiling, or wall aren’t the reference for this term—the focus is on how close an object near the deflector is and how that proximity could affect the stream.