Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are a number of questions to which we have placed answers. If you have a question you would like answering then please email us at sales@ibcguardian.co.uk and we will attempt to answer it.
If the question is felt to be of note to other people then we will add it to this page.
Instructions on use
Instructions on use…
We have produced an informative yet simple guide to operating the system which is supplied with every unit
What is the pump output?
The pumps is of a design that provides for a number of outlets and a maximum pressure output of 7 Bar
Can foam be used?
Yes … the pump has a maximum output of approximately 300 litres per minute (LPM) and with the IBC Guardian I, III and IV systems which have a 2.5inch instantaneous coupling we can provide an inline foam inductor and a foam branch to permit the user to deliver foam onto a fire.
What if the battery goes flat on the electric start?
The battery we fit is a high quality 12v 12Ah unit which is directly linked to the engine which does have a recharge circuit to charge the battery whilst it is running. We can install an isolator switch or circuit breaker to ensure that there is no drain on the battery when the system is not in use.
The engine does come as standard with a recoil start backup so even if the battery goes completely flat it will still be possible to start the engine using the following guide:
Starting the engine (Electric)
- Make sure the power is connected from the battery to the engine
- Make sure the fuel supply is switched to the (ON) position
- Move the choke lever to the fully (OPEN) position
- Open the throttle slightly
- Turn the ignition key to engage the starter motor and start the engine
- Once started move the choke lever to the fully (CLOSED) position when appropriate to do so
- Operate the engine as normal
- To switch the engine off simply turn the ignition to the (OFF) position
Starting the engine (Hand Pull)
- Make sure the ignition is in the (OFF) position
- Make sure the fuel supply is switched to the (ON) position
- Move the choke lever to the fully (OPEN) position
- Open the throttle slightly
- Give a couple of pulls on the starter cord to pull fuel through into the carburettor
- When ready switch the ignition to the (ON) position
- Pull the starter cord to start the engine
- Once started move the choke lever to the fully (CLOSED) position when appropriate to do so
- Operate the engine as normal
- To switch the engine off simply turn the ignition to the (OFF) position
Does the system include the IBC 1000L Tote Container?
The IBC Guardian Fire Fighting System has been produced to fit onto a standard IBC 1000L Tote container but we do not automatically supply one. If required we can supply one at an additional cost.
The options are therefore to purchase just the system and use your own IBC 1000L Tote Container or have us provide a complete system including the container.
Are spare parts available?
Yes … spare parts are available for both the pump and engine as well as replacement ancilliary components (fittings, valves etc.)
Do you ship to customers outside the UK?
No … we only sell to UK customers
Can you provide extra hose and other items?
Yes we can supply other items, just let us know what you want when you make contact.
From placement of order what is the delivery lead time?
Units are built to order and customer preference i.e. Guardian I or II etc. Lead times are currently 3 weeks due to demand (as of Apr-2025)
Are the pumps tested before shipment?
Pumps are pressure tested using air, we test to 7.0 Bar and then reduce to 2.0 Bar and hold for 5 minutes to check for leaks.
Engines are shipped dry and will need filling with 20W50 oil which is provided and of course fuel before starting.
Is there a Diesel engined version
Currently there is no diesel engine option available.
What is layflat hose?
Durable Layflat Type 2 Fire Hose with Alloy Couplings
We supply high-quality layflat fire hose which has been designed for robust performance and comes fitted with wired-on alloy couplings and protective rubber sleeves. It meets the requirements equivalent to BS 6391 Type 2 standards and is compatible with UK fire service-style fittings. Standard sizes include 23-metre lengths, with a diameter of 45mm.
Widely used by on-site industrial response teams, this red layflat hose is also ideal for a range of other demanding applications such as general industrial work, agricultural watering, irrigation, and wash-down duties. Its construction features a double-vulcanised rubber inner lining paired with a durable polyester outer jacket, offering enhanced resistance to wear and abrasion in tough working conditions.
Lightweight and easy to handle, this hose resists kinks, remains flexible in use, and is simple to clean. It operates at a working pressure of up to 15 bar and can withstand bursts up to 45 bar.
What fire fighting branch is used with the layflat?
High-Performance Automatic Fire Nozzle – 40 to 400 LPM Range
Designed to maintain consistent performance, this automatic fire nozzle adjusts flow automatically to compensate for changes in pressure. Regardless of the selected spray pattern—whether it’s a direct jet, narrow fog, wide fog, or flush—the nozzle ensures steady output for effective firefighting or wash-down operations.
A twist-style adjustment ring allows for quick and easy switching between spray settings. Raised markings on the ring offer improved usability in low-visibility conditions. With a wide flow capacity ranging from 40 to 400 litres per minute, this nozzle delivers powerful, reliable performance across a range of applications.
Built to meet BSEN-15182 standards, the nozzle is equipped with a built-in 2 ½” instantaneous alloy male inlet (BS 336), making it compatible with standard UK hose fittings. Its durable construction includes a hard-anodised aluminium body, an ergonomic ABS handle, and a rubber bumper for added protection. Moulded rubber teeth at the nozzle tip are designed to produce multiple fog patterns efficiently.
Favoured by firefighting professionals, this nozzle is well-suited for tough environments including marine use, oil rigs, industrial wash-down, and dust suppression tasks.
What nozzle comes with the hose reel?
Versatile Jet Spray Nozzle
The jet spray nozzle offers simple and effective control over water flow with its twist-operated rubber bumper, allowing you to easily switch between a focused jet stream and a wider spray pattern, as well as turn the flow on or off.
Twist the outlet to create varying spray patterns, the nozzle can project water up to 12 metres in jet mode and around 4.5 metres in spray mode.
Built to handle a working pressure of up to 16 bar and tested to 24 bar, this nozzle is well-suited to the hose reel we use on the IBC Guardian hose reel.
Whether used for firefighting, industrial wash-down, or general utility tasks, it offers dependable performance in tough conditions.
