When you turn on the faucet to wash dishes or shave, the water flow is controlled by a valve that regulates the water pressure. There are many kinds of water regulators throughout your home that serve different functions depending on how they are used. The following is a list of valves that are found in most homes. 

What Valves Are in Your Home Plumbing?

1. Ball Valve

The water regulator that controls your home’s ability to shut down water power is typically a ball valve. This valve has at its center a ball with a hole in the middle that is controlled by a lever. When the lever is parallel to the pipe, the hole in the ball is exposed, which allows water flow to flow through it. When the lever is perpendicular to the pipe, the ball shifts to cover the hole, which stops the flow of water.

2. Pressure-Reducing Valve

Houses that can’t withstand the high-pressure water of their local water supply typically use a pressure-reducing valve to address this regulate their water flow. This water regulator uses a diaphragm and a spring to control the amount of water that is allowed through the pipe. The spring is preset to allow more or less water flow through, depending on water flow capacity of the home.

3. Stop Valve

Stop valves typically control the flow of water in sinks and toilets. They are particularly useful for plumbing repairs since they can block the water flow to the affected area without impacting the rest of the house’s water supply. These water regulators are also known as fixture shutoff valves and operate by using a compression washer that opens and closes from a valve handle.

4. Globe Valve

When water flow needs regular adjustments or regulation, a globe valve is a common choice. You can regulate this valve by raising or lowering a twist knob, which in turn raises or lowers a stopper in the pipe. Water flow is completely stopped when the stem causes the stopper to shift down against the valve seat. The valve is more precise as it can be raised in increments.

Since 1980, Caylor Industrial Sales in Dalton, GA has been Northeast Georgia’s premier supplier of residential plumbing valves and other hardware. The family-owned business takes pride in its large inventory of industrial supplies and stellar customer service. If you’re looking for a part and need assistance, stop by the warehouse or call (706) 226-3198. You can also see their catalog on their website.