There are so many different valves to choose from. It can be tough to know which one to use, mostly because of a lack of knowledge or experience. One of the most common valves being purchased is the angle stop valve.

There is no reason to buy and use the wrong type of valve because you don’t understand the different valves. With this guide about angle valves, you will know exactly why this is a valve to purchase. And why it’s needed in all the homes.

What is an angle stop valve?

We all have stop valves in our homes. These fittings are at 90 degrees, and they can open and close. It is also known as a compression valve. It is shut-off valves in plumbing. Without these valves, there is more risk of flooding your home. You will find one of these valves underneath every water appliance fixture in your home. In a plumbing emergency, you can shut off the water using the angle stop valve.

There are a variety of different stop valves, but the most common one to use is known as the angle stop valve. It is also known that there are a couple of varying stop valves to choose from.

The application of angle valves

As we said before, the main application is to stop water flow in plumbing. Residential application of angle valves is simple to install and use. This is a better description of its application. The angle stop valve connects water features throughout the plumbing network. When water flow is needed, the stop valve is opened.

These stop valves in industrial and commercial areas isolate water from a certain area. This is usually used during maintenance. The angle valve is used in places with a 90-degree flow direction change.

• A fixture or fitting bursting can be used as an emergency shutoff on the water system.
• These valves can also be used to prevent fixture bursting or water damage during a leakage.
• I am turning off the valve when a single appliance needs to be repaired in residential areas.

Different types of angle valves

Even if there are three basic types of angle valves(excluding the angle stop valve), they all have the same function. To be able to stop liquid, or in some cases gas, from flowing. It is essential to know as much about these different valves as possible and which one you might need.

Gate stop valve

Gate stop valves are mostly used in the industrial industry. These valves are used for oil and wastewater flow control. These valves usually are larger and longer lasting. In some older commercial or residential plumbing systems, you might still find gate stop valves. The only reason it is still in these households is because it hasn’t been replaced yet.

Another reason why gate stop valves are also high in demand is they can withstand higher temperatures. And higher water pressure than other stop valves. Experts say gate valves aren’t as reliable as ball valves in smaller plumbing systems.

Ball stop valve

The ball stop valve is the best stop valve to use in residential and small commercial water systems. There are many reasons for this:

Ball valves are quarter-turn valves. This means that the valve needs to be turned 90 degrees to open or close the valve. It can be closed quickly in case of an emergency. Another feature of the ball valve is that it can rotate more than 360 degrees to open or close it. This is known as a multi-turn valve.

• A lever is usually used to turn the valve open or close. It controls the flow of water.
• It can be shut off a lot faster than other stop valves.
• The ball valve can be used in residential, commercial, and industrial plumbing systems.

Globe valve

You will find globe-stop valves everywhere. It is popular in residential, commercial, and industrial systems. The main function is to regulate the flow of water and other fluids. It is also important to know that these glove valves can block the flow completely.

A benefit of the globe valve is that it is stronger and more reliable than the ball, gate, and angle stop valve. Unlike the other stop valves available, you can also repair a globe valve. The globe valve is a tighter seal for applications requiring no leakage.

Different types of pipe connections

It doesn’t matter what type of stop valve you buy; you still need to know which pipe connection is required. Because of the variety of pipe connections, it can be hard to choose the right one. This information will make knowing which pipe connection will be needed easier.

Compression angle

The households’ most common angle stop valve is the compression angle pipe connection. These valves require a compression nut and ferrule. It creates a watertight seal. This can be used to connect copper of PEX tubing.

Sweat angle

Few choose seat angle connections because of the difficulty of installation. It would be best if you soldered the fitting onto copper pipes. It won’t work on other types of pipe materials. However, it will create a tight seal that will be permanent and leak-proof if the soldering is done correctly.

CPVC angle

When you have CPVC pipes, you will need to purchase the CPVC pipe connections. You can’t use this pipe connection on anything else. You will also need a solvent cement to apply to the pipe and valve. To form a secure and leak-proof connection.

FIP angle

Another common angle stop valve connection type is FIP angle pipes. FIP stands for Female Iron Pipe. It will screw onto a male threaded pipe. These connection types are easy to use and will give a tight seal with a strong connection. It is easier for household plumbing because of the more straightforward installation.

Push-fit angle

These valve types are also known as push-to-connect valves. It is easy to use if you are using it correctly. And. If the valve and pipe form a tight seal. It can be used on copper pipes and PEX and CPVC pipes. There is nothing to seal the valve to the pipe, so it isn’t as reliable as other connections.

Different materials you can find these valves in

In most residential plumbing systems, you will find angle stop valves in copper. However, there are other materials that you can choose from as well. Just know that you need to install the right material valve to the same material plumbing system.

Brass angle stop valves

Brass valves, especially the angle stop valve, are known to be gold valve fittings. In most cases, this is the standard fitting material to use. The reason for it is it’s durable and resistant to corrosion. It is essential to know that it can also show wear and tear, which requires replacements. These are the three most common signs that these valves must be replaced.

• A change in the brass color will indicate some oxidation or corrosion is present and replacement is needed.
• Once the brass fitting starts leaking, it feels like dripping. Or when there’s moisture around the valve, the seal is worn, and the valve needs replacement.

Plastic angle valves

Plastic is the most affordable option for low-budget homes. However, it is less durable and will need replacements more frequently than other angle valves.

• Cracks in the plastic valve will mean the plastic has become brittle and needs replacement ASAP.
• The plastic can’t take too much heat. A sign for replacement will be when the fitting is warping—the high temperatures cause the valve to deform, resulting in leakage.
• Because of different chemical reactions, plastic can become discolored. This is also a sign that the material is compromised and needs replacements.

Copper stop valves

Most plumbing systems, especially residential homes, have copper angle stop valves installed. This is also known to be a corrosion-resistant material. There are still some wear-and-tear signs to look for. This will require replacement if wear and tear is visible.

• The copper starts to turn green. They are also known as a patina. This is a sign of corrosion and will need replacements.
• Once the copper fitting is loose or wobbles, it is compromised and unreliable. This can happen because copper is softer than brass. If the fitting isn’t securely attached, a replacement is needed.
• With copper, there can be internal wear and tear. The sign for internal wear will be reduced water flow.

FAQ of angle stop valves

What is known to be the best type of stop valve?

The recommended angle stop valve is known as the ball valve. This is because it’s more durable, reliable, and can be entirely opened for high water flow.

 What is the primary use of angle stop valves in plumbing?

Angle valves control water flow in plumbing systems at a 90-degree angle. You will find these valves in kitchens and bathrooms.

How much pressure can an angle stop valve hold?

The UPC Uniform plumbing code requires water to be delivered between 35 and 80 Psi. Stop valves can withstand 80 Psi(pounds per square inch).

What is the most common stop valve size in plumbing?

Most residential homes have stop valves that are either /2″ fip (female iron pipe) or 5/8″ o.d. However, this doesn’t mean that all homes are the same size.

Conclusion

Angle stop valves. Something every household has, and you might not even know about it. One thing that the stop valve does is ensure that the water flow in plumbing fixtures is shut off. Yet, this isn’t the only thing you need to know about these valves. It is important to understand the different stop valves. And to know the materials of these valves. It is important to know this information so that the correct valve can be replaced or repaired.

Some of these valves are easier to install than others. By understanding everything around angle stop valves, you might be able to start installing them yourself.