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Plumbing Service: Understanding 5 Different Types Of Plumbing Valves | McKinney, TX

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To control the flow and supply of water inside the plumbing system, each system will require different valves installed at various checkpoints. The valves can control the flow of water and even completely restrict it at times. There are different types of valves, and they all rely on different mechanisms to operate. They can also be used in different types of applications. Each valve will possess its own unique features, pros, and cons.

To learn more about the types of plumbing valves that are most suitable for various situations, you’ll need to speak with a plumber. In this article, we’ll look at 5 of the most commonly used plumbing valves, as well as how they work.

Gate Valves

One of the most common types of plumbing valves used in plumbing services in McKinney, TX is gate valves. Gate valves are perhaps some of the most commonly seen valves used in residential, industrial, commercial and even institutional applications. These valves operate much like a gate. When the gate is lowered, it prevents water from flowing through the valve; however, when the valve is raised, water can easily flow through.

Gate valves are used for either opening or closing water flow. It is not typically used for any applications that involve adjusting the water flow. If you don’t fully turn on the gates and allow only some movement of water against the gate, it could damage these valves and cause them to require more plumbing services to fix.

Butterfly Valves

Butterfly valves are named that way because of the mechanisms that are inside. They essentially have a disc that rotates when the handle is turned. This adjusts and controls the flow of water. Due to the mechanism inside these valves, these valves are typically used by plumbers for throttling. Most of these valves even have locking mechanisms that counteract the force of the water on the disc in order to prevent premature wear.

One of the main benefits of butterfly valves is that they are typically quite light, so they’re compatible with many different applications. The only issue is that the gasket will need to be replaced after some time. Fortunately, this is a fairly easy fix.

Check Valves

Check valves are quite different from butterfly valves and gate valves. Instead of controlling the flow of water, check valves to ensure that water is flowing one way only, especially in the event of a cross-connection. You’ll typically find check valves at the sewer line, as they prevent the backflow of waste back into the home.

There are different types of check valves. Some have a ball inside to block the outlet while others use a flapper. Some check valves are non-operational and are completely automatic as they rely on physics, like gravity and water pressure.

When it comes to check valves, the type of mechanism that is inside the valve will vary depending on your plumbing system and network. Don’t choose a random check valve. Speak with a plumbing service to see what’s more suitable for your home.

Globe Valves

Another common plumbing valve that you’ll often hear about when you call a plumbing service is globe valves. These types of valves are similar to gate valves; however, they rely on a stopper to block the flow of water. These valves are often used in situations where regular wear and tear is a concern, as they are more durable than gate valves and will last longer without needing any plumbing services.

Another interesting point about globe valves is that they close relatively slowly, so they’re also able to prevent water hammers from forming. If your plumbing system is susceptible to water hammers, switching to this type of plumbing valve may be really useful, and may put a stop to the noises immediately! You’ll also find that your plumbing system will be less affected by water hammers in the future as well.

Stop Valves

Last but not least, we have stop valves. There are two different types of stop valves: angled and straight. Each type is used in different situations. These valves are primarily used to block the flow of water from a main supply, so you’ll see them underneath your sink in the cabinets and behind your toilets. These valves are easy to operate and use. They do, however, rely on different mechanisms. Some stop valves have inner mechanisms similar to gate valves while others are more similar to ball valves.

Many plumbing services may prefer this type of valve over gate valves and globe valves because their design results in less flow restrictions. They’re also incredibly easy to install, and can be used in a wide range of different applications. Most of these stop valves come in a 1/4-turn style that will adjust the flow of water that’s entering the system.

Call Us for Plumbing Services in McKinney, TX

All valves are not the same. They rely on very different mechanisms and systems to control water flow. Different plumbing valves are more suitable for different plumbing applications, so it’s important to fully understand the pros and cons of each valve, as well as what makes them unique to better understanding the plumbing system and network.

To learn more about the different types of plumbing valves that are commonly used in various applications, contact a plumbing service like bluefrog Plumbing + Drain of North East Dallas in McKinney, TX. Our licensed and insured plumbers have integrated various types of valves into different plumbing systems and networks. They also offer a wide range of plumbing services, from gas line repairs to drain cleaning services.

Call us today at 972-483-2583 for more information. Our plumbers can help you figure out which valve may be most suited for your needs. If there appears to be something wrong with a valve, our plumbers can also figure out whether you need to replace the entire valve or whether you can get away with replacing only a small part inside the valve.

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