The distance of the deflector is measured from which part of the obstruction to the deflector?

• A. From the bottom of the obstruction to the deflector.
• B. From the top of the obstruction to the deflector.
• C. From the floor to the deflector.
• D. From the ceiling to the deflector.

Answer: (A)

The distance to the deflector is measured from the bottom surface of the obstruction to the deflector. This matters because the sprinkler spray travels outward and downward, and the lowest edge of any nearby obstruction (like shelves, furniture, or a lip on a device) is the part that could block or deflect the spray. Measuring from the bottom ensures you account for that lowest point and provide enough clearance for the spray to reach the protected area. Measuring from the top, the floor, or the ceiling wouldn’t reliably reflect the clearance needed to avoid blocking the spray path.