Which component of a fire sprinkler system is responsible for discharging water?

The component responsible for discharging water in a fire sprinkler system is the sprinkler head. When a fire occurs, the heat from the flames activates the sprinkler head, causing it to open and release water directly over the area affected by the fire. This immediate response is crucial for controlling or extinguishing flames, thereby minimizing damage and enhancing safety.

The role of the water supply is to provide the necessary source of water that flows through the system, but it does not actively discharge water. The control valve is essential for regulating the flow of water within the system but does not itself discharge water; it can be opened or closed to allow or prevent the flow. The pressure gauge monitors the water pressure in the system to ensure it operates within safe parameters, but it does not play a direct role in discharging water. Therefore, the sprinkler head is the critical component that performs the function of discharging water in response to heat from a fire, making it the correct answer.