Valves are among the most critical components in your home. Even so, they’re also among the most overlooked components — despite playing a leading role in your house’s plumbing and mechanical functions. These valves control water flow and pressure and enable you or whatever professional you hire to isolate particular sections for repair or maintenance.
Nonetheless, homeowners hardly ever raise the issue of valves until something unfortunate happens that directly involves the valves. That’s when things can go downhill since you might have to hire a licensed plumber and endure inconvenience until the problem is fixed.
With that said, here are four things that everyone, especially homeowners, should know about valves.
1. The Main Water Shut-Off Valve Is a Vital Emergency Tool
Every homeowner should know where the main water turn-off valve is within their residence. Having a burst pipe or a faulty water heater will require shutting down the main water turn-off valve to prevent costly damage to carpets, drywall, furniture, and personal possessions.
For single-family dwellings, the principal turn-off valve will be found in any of the following areas:
- In the section where the water line enters the house, such as a basement or crawl space
- Near the water meter
- In an access panel in some more modern infrastructures
The two main types of shut-off valves are gate valves, which turn multiple times, and ball valves, which work with a mere quarter turn.
Ball valves are much more reliable and easier to operate in an emergency. It’s a good practice for homeowners to check their main turn-off valve once or twice a year to make sure it still turns smoothly. A valve that is stuck in place will do no good in an emergency.
When it comes to the commercial space, businesses look for zero leakage valves. Despite the name, these valves are not guaranteed to be literally leak-free. But they are designed to meet the highest standards for safety, operational efficiency, and environmental compliance. So, they’re the ones to invest in for companies that wish to avoid the costs associated with leaks.
2. Fixture Shut-Off Valves Assist in Isolating Issues
Apart from the main valve, there are valves for shutting down appliances, toilets, or fixtures individually. That means you won’t have to shut down the entire system to fix an isolated issue.
These valves are usually small knobs or levers that turn a quarter turn and are usually located on the plumbing lines. Because they are hardly ever used, they can become stiff and difficult, if not entirely impossible, to operate. Homeowners should check them periodically and make sure they’re still working properly.
3. Pressure Reducing Valves Protect Plumbing Systems From Stress
Water pressure from city sources can vary depending on the area. Some regions will have water pressures that are higher than what a plumbing system can withstand. Higher pressure might put additional stress on plumbing. Adding a pressure-reducing valve will make it easier to regulate water pressure. The water pressure will remain within an acceptable range.
Indications that your house requires a pressure-reducing valve or your existing pressure-reducing valve requires adjustment or replacement include:
- Water pressure that feels too strong
- Leaks at fixtures and supply lines
- Noisy pipes or ‘water hammer’ sound when turning off faucets
A working pressure-reducing valve will result in better plumbing system performance and will safeguard housing infrastructure. To determine if your home needs a pressure-reducing valve, consult a licensed plumber to check pressures and advise on which system you should have.
4. Maintaining Valves Reduces Risks Associated with Leaks
Just like any other mechanical device, there are times when valves have to be maintained so that they can function properly. As time goes by, valves will develop problems due to corrosion and will start becoming sticky and unworkable. Proper maintenance will help you avoid issues.
Effective maintenance procedures include operating the valves yearly by turning them on and off, checking for slow drips and corrosion at valve connections, and examining older gate valves for evidence of wear or partial closure.
A faulty valve can cause leaks. Even if it leaks slowly, it will still waste considerable water.
Valves might not be the most talked-about feature within your house, but they are an integral part of ensuring your plumbing system is always running within a safe and efficient capacity. By understanding your valves, you’ll be able to tackle plumbing problems with confidence.
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