In a dry pipe system, air pressure compared to water pressure is how many times greater?

In a dry pipe system, the air pressure is typically maintained at a level that is significantly higher than the water pressure. This is necessary to ensure that the system remains charged with air, preventing water from entering the pipes until the system is activated, such as during a fire. The correct answer indicates that air pressure is five times greater than the water pressure in this type of system.

Maintaining higher air pressure is crucial for proper operation; it allows the system to detect when a fire occurs, causing the air pressure to drop as water flows into the pipes during activation. This dramatic difference helps to ensure that the system functions effectively in an emergency situation.

Other options reflect different ratios but do not align with the established guidelines and practices for dry pipe systems in fire protection. Each choice suggests a ratio that would either compromise the system's integrity or not meet the necessary safety standards.