The Types of Water Valves You'll Find in Your Home
When it comes to plumbing and water valves, there are several types that you may encounter in your home. In this article, we'll explore some of the most common types of water valves, including gate valves, ball valves, and others.
Gate Valves: A Basic Overview
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One of the most common types of valves you'll find in your home is the gate valve. Gate valves are simple, yet effective, and can be found in a variety of configurations, including compression style and push-in style. The compression style gate valve features a brass fitting that screws onto copper pipe, while the push-in style uses a quarter-turn fitting. These gates can be turned on or off by simply twisting them.
Gate Valves: Additional Types
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In addition to the basic compression style and push-in style gate valves, there are other types available as well. For example, some gate valves come with a drain hole that allows you to empty out water from the valve in the winter months. This can be helpful for maintaining the valve's functionality over time. Gate valves also come with various materials, such as brass and copper, which provide durability and resistance to corrosion.
Gate Valves: Solder-On and Compression Style
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A gate valve is also available in a solder-on style fitting. This type of gate valve features a quarter-turn nut that can be turned on or off to control the flow of water. When you turn the nut, it opens or closes the valve by moving a little plunger inside the valve. The key to using this style valve is to not heat it up too much, as the rubber bushing or cork inside the valve can melt and cause problems.
Gate Valves: Ball Valves
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Another type of gate valve is the ball valve. This type of valve features a quarter-turn mechanism that allows you to turn the valve on or off quickly and easily. The ball valves are often used in areas where they need to be frequently turned on and off, such as under sinks or toilets. They come with various materials, including brass and copper, which provide durability and resistance to corrosion.
Ball Valves: Additional Types
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In addition to the basic quarter-turn ball valve, there are other types available as well. For example, some ball valves feature a push-in style fitting that can be used with plastic or braided hoses. These valves come in various configurations, including threaded and screw-on styles. The threaded style uses a quarter-turn mechanism, while the screw-on style uses a flat spring-loaded nut to turn the valve on or off.
Ball Valves: Quarter-Turn Ball Valve
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The quarter-turn ball valve is one of the most popular types of ball valves available today. This type of valve features a simple quarter-turn mechanism that allows you to quickly and easily turn the valve on or off. The key to using this style valve is to keep it well-lubricated by occasionally moving it while it's not in use. This will help prevent seized-up issues when you do need to use the valve.
Choosing the Right Water Valve for Your Home
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When choosing a water valve for your home, there are several factors to consider. These include the type of material used (such as brass or copper), the configuration of the valve (such as compression style or push-in style), and the intended application (such as under sinks or toilets). By understanding these factors, you can choose the right water valve for your specific needs.
In conclusion, there are several types of valves that you'll find in your home. From gate valves to ball valves, each type has its own unique characteristics and benefits. Understanding the different types of valves available will help you make informed decisions when it comes to selecting a new valve or repairing an existing one.