Range Guard Pressure Switch 9197023

The Range Guard Pressure Switch (P/N 9197023, full part number 60-9197023-000) is a single-pole double-throw (SPDT) pressure-sensitive switch installed in the discharge piping of a Range Guard or Industry Guard kitchen fire suppression system. When the system actuates and agent flows through the piping, the resulting pressure rise trips the switch, which then opens or closes electrical circuits to drive auxiliary functions: sounding an alarm, tripping a magnetic contactor to shut off electrically operated cooking appliances, operating an electric gas valve, or shutting off exhaust fans.

The pressure switch provides an alternative to microswitches mounted inside the Universal Control Head or A-plus Control Box for triggering these auxiliary outputs. Where a microswitch actuates electrically at the moment the control head fires, the pressure switch actuates based on actual agent pressure in the discharge piping, confirming that agent is physically flowing rather than just that the control head has tripped. The switch's adjustable range of 10 to 100 PSI is factory set at 20 PSI rise, and there is no limit to the number of pressure switches that can be used in a single Range Guard system.

One important electrical limitation: electrical appliances typically exceed the switch's 15-amp AC rating. A magnetic contactor or relay must be wired between the pressure switch and any appliance with a higher amperage draw. Do not wire high-amperage appliances directly to this switch.

Kitchen suppression systems are pre-engineered systems under NFPA 17A and NFPA 96. Pressure switch installation and wiring must be performed by a certified Range Guard distributor.

• Magnetic Contactor Required for High-Amperage Loads: Electrical appliances, exhaust fans, and similar equipment usually draw more than 15 amps AC. These must not be wired directly to this switch. A magnetic contactor or relay must be used as an intermediate control device.
• Factory Setpoint: The switch arrives set at 20 PSI rise. If your certified Range Guard distributor determines a different setpoint is needed for your specific installation, they will adjust within the 10 to 100 PSI range during installation.
• Semiannual Professional Service: A qualified technician tests the pressure switch function at each required semiannual service interval, confirming it actuates auxiliary circuits correctly when the system fires.

What is the difference between using this pressure switch versus a microswitch in the control head?

A microswitch inside the UCH or A-plus Control Box trips electrically the moment the control head actuates, regardless of whether agent has actually flowed. The pressure switch trips when it detects actual pressure rise in the discharge piping, confirming that agent is physically moving through the system. Your certified Range Guard distributor determines which approach is appropriate based on your specific system design and auxiliary output requirements.

Why can't I wire my exhaust fan directly to this switch?

The switch is rated for 15 amps AC maximum. Most commercial kitchen exhaust fans and appliances draw more than this. Wiring a high-amperage load directly to the switch can damage the switch contacts and cause unreliable or failed auxiliary shutoff. A magnetic contactor or relay sized for the actual appliance load must be used as the switching device, with the pressure switch controlling the contactor coil rather than the appliance directly.

Can I use more than one of these switches in my system?

Yes. There is no limit to the number of pressure switches permitted in a Range Guard system, so multiple switches can be used to control separate auxiliary circuits independently.