Valves

Valves: What You Need to Know

Valves, also known as shutoff devices, diverters, and pressure regulators, are used across plumbing systems to manage flow direction, isolate fixtures, or control water pressure. This category includes connectors ranging from ¼ inch to 2 inch in diameter, covering light residential tasks and heavy duty commercial builds.

Type:

• Ball Valve x FIP: Offers full flow control with a quarter turn shutoff. Commonly used in service lines and water main connections.
• Barb: Connects to flexible tubing in irrigation or PEX systems. Provides a tight seal using a clamp or crimp ring.
• Comp x Comp: Joins two compression ends for quick shutoff or redirection. Frequently installed under sinks or behind toilets.
• Female Pipe Thread: Allows direct connection to male threaded ends for easy fixture installations or valve replacements.
• FIP x MHT: Connects female iron pipe to male hose threads. Used when converting between plumbing and hose applications.
• FIP x FIP: Features female threads on both ends for fixture or valve extensions. Ideal for rigid plumbing configurations.
• Flare x FIP: Connects flare tubing to female pipe threads, often in gas or high pressure water systems.
• MIP x MIP: Threads directly into fittings or other valves. Used when a male-to-male connection is required in compact areas.
• PTC x PTC: Push to connect ends allow tool-free valve installations. Saves time in tight spaces or temporary setups.
• Solvent x Solvent: Used in PVC applications to permanently join valve ends with solvent cement.
• Sweat x Sweat: Designed for copper piping systems. Requires soldering to form a sealed, leakproof bond.

Application:

• Backflow Prevention: Protects the water supply by stopping reverse flow. Used near irrigation or outdoor spigots.
• Ball: Provides on and off flow control with minimal friction loss. Durable and ideal for long term shutoff points.
• Diverter: Redirects water between two outputs. Common in shower or sink systems that alternate spray direction.
• Hose Bibb: Controls water flow from exterior wall connections. Threaded to accept standard garden hoses.
• Pressure Balance: Maintains consistent water temperature by balancing pressure fluctuations. Found in shower or bath valves.
• Pressure Regulating: Reduces incoming pressure to protect downstream fixtures and pipes. Often installed at main line entry points.
• Sillcock: An outdoor faucet style valve with frost protection. Mounted through exterior walls and often used with hose bibbs.
• Volume Control: Manages water volume to a specific outlet. Used in showers and tubs for individual spray head control.

Materials:

• Brass: Durable and corrosion resistant, brass valves dominate this category. Perfect for both hot and cold water systems.
• Copper: Used in sweat valve bodies for high heat or soldered connections. Reliable in traditional plumbing lines.
• PVC: Lightweight and chemical resistant. Common in irrigation and low pressure setups.
• Plastic: Found in specialty or temporary valves, offering quick solutions where corrosion resistance is key.
• PEX: Used with crimp or clamp ring systems for flexible plumbing layouts.

Pressure:

• Low Pressure (1 to 150 PSI): Suitable for irrigation, temporary setups, or drain line controls.
• Medium Pressure (151 to 300 PSI): Handles household water systems, indoor shutoff points, and fixture isolation.
• High Pressure (301 to 600 PSI): Built for commercial lines, backflow prevention, and outdoor applications with higher system demands.

At Supply Ontime, we offer reliable materials designed to meet your project’s needs. With same-day delivery across the Greater Los Angeles area, we make it easy to keep your projects on schedule. Order Valves now and get them delivered today!