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- Buying Guide: End Of Line Valves
End-of-Line valves are the valves located at the end of a run of pipes or tubing to stop or throttle the flow rate of gas or liquid. They are used indoors on appliances like washing machines and furnaces, and outdoors for applications like garden hose faucets and irrigation systems. Some are used for more general industrial applications. Old or broken valves can cost you a great deal of money over time, and proper installation is a key factor in delivering the most value. This guide will explain the differences between some of the most common end-of-line valves and give you the knowledge you need to choose the right valve for your next project.
Materials and Connections
End-of-line
valves are made of metal or plastic. If you are replacing a valve, take note
of how the valve you are replacing connects to the pipe or line. Metal valves
connect using threaded male or female connections, solder, or compression
fittings. Plastic valves can be glued to plastic pipes.
Types, Functions and Applications
End-of-line
valves fall into three broad uses: indoor, outdoor and general purpose.
Consult
the table below for a simple breakdown of valve types, the equipment they work
with, and their function.
Indoor Valves
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Outdoor Valves
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How to Size a Valve
Choosing the right
size valve is important. A valve that is too small won’t let the gas or liquid
through at the proper rate; a valve that is too large can cause waste and flow
stability problems.
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Features to Consider
Actuators
Actuators
open and close valves. Automatic actuators may be pneumatic, hydraulic or
electric. Actuators are installed where valves are inaccessible, such as in
pipelines or hazardous areas.
Timers
Timers
are used with automated valves. They allow you to preset operating times for
irrigation systems and are useful in areas with water restrictions, off-peak
rates, and for watering your lawn when you're on vacation.
Rising
Stems
A gate valve controls water flow by sliding a "gate"
across the face of the valve, usually operated by a turn handle. If you
install a valve with a gate design, look for one with a rising stem, which
will make it easier to tell if the valve is open or closed at a glance.
