Alexei Volkov
Plastic sink valves are used to control the flow of water in plumbing fixtures such as sinks, faucets, and appliances. They are often found underneath or behind fixtures, allowing for easy access and control of the water supply. These valves can be made of plastic or polypropylene, suitable for low-pressure and low-temperature applications. There are different types of plastic sink valves, including quarter-turn valves, multi-turn valves, and compression stop valves, each with unique mechanisms for opening and closing the water flow. Understanding the various types of sink valves and their functions can help in selecting the most suitable configuration for specific needs and ensuring proper usage.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Types | Multi-turn valves, Quarter-turn valves, Three-way stop valves, Compression stop valves |
| Construction | Plastic, Polypropylene, Brass, Chrome-plated brass, Metal |
| Use cases | Low-pressure, low-temperature applications, Reverse osmosis systems, Ice makers, Hydroponics, Aquarium/aquatics, Under-sink shutoff, Main water shutoff |
| Cost | $10-20 for the valve, $45-$200 per hour for a plumber |
| Tools required | Screwdriver, Wrench, Teflon tape |
| Maintenance | Should be turned on and off at least every 6 months |
| Issues | Prone to flaking, Popping out, Leaking |
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What You'll Learn
Plastic push/pull stop valves
There are alternative types of shut-off valves available, such as multi-turn valves and quarter-turn valves. Multi-turn valves require multiple turns of the handle to open and close a rubber gasket that pushes against the valve opening. Quarter-turn valves, on the other hand, only require a quarter-turn of the handle to operate. They are more expensive but tend to be more reliable.
It is important to note that the main water shut-off valve is usually located along the perimeter of the house, on the side facing the street. For homes with basements, it can be found by tracing the water distribution system to an exterior wall.
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Quarter-turn valves
To turn on a quarter-turn valve, simply turn the handle a quarter turn (90 degrees). This will engage a steel ball with a hole that falls into place, allowing water to flow through the hole in the ball. To turn off the valve, turn the handle in the opposite direction (a quarter turn in the opposite direction) until the water flow is closed.
There are five main types of quarter-turn valves:
- Plug valves: These work similarly to gate valves, but the wheel is turned up and down in plug valves, while it moves side to side in gate valves. Plug valves are more trustworthy than gate valves and allow for faster shutoff in urgent cases.
- Ball valves: These have a hole drilled into the centre of the valve, allowing the ball to move. When the ball rotates 90 degrees, the flow stops automatically. Ball valves are commonly made of brass, metal, or stainless steel.
- Butterfly valves: These differ from ball and plug valves as they use a disc shape with a seal ring between the valve body and the disc. When the disc is upright to the flow direction, the flow speed is stopped. Butterfly valves are used in various industries, including water or gas supply, oil, food, and the chemical industry.
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Multi-turn valves
To turn on a multi-turn valve, the handle must be loosened. This allows water to flow through the valve. Tightening the handle restricts the water flow. This is done by turning a rubber gasket, located in the middle of the valve, which pushes against the valve opening to close it.
Some people prefer multi-turn valves because they can be rebuilt rather than replaced if they fail, and they are less likely to seize in the open position.
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Three-way stop valves
Plastic shut-off valves are suitable for low-pressure, low-temperature applications such as reverse osmosis systems, ice makers, hydroponics and aquariums. They are useful for small repairs or the installation of replacement fixtures.
Now, three-way stop valves are one of the most frequently used valves because they can accommodate various system requirements and allow for different types of flow. They are often found under kitchen sinks, where they feed both the hot tap and the dishwasher.
Three-way valves have one inlet and two outlets, and they come in a few different configurations. They can be cross-shaped, with two outlets facing opposite directions, or they can have outlets in an "L" or "Y" configuration.
The T-port and L-port are the two internal structures of three-way valves. The T-port design is suitable for diverting fluid flow from one source to different outlets, while the L-port design facilitates mixing from multiple sources to common outlets. The T-port is usually preferred over the L-port because it allows for multidimensional flow patterns, whereas the L-port is non-dimensional. The T-port can also have all three ports open at once, while the L-port can move through 360 degrees, providing two shut-off positions.
Handles are crucial to three-way valves as they provide power and control over the volume of media passing through.
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Compression stop valves
This type of valve has a brass ring called a ferrule and a compression nut that squeezes the ferrule into the pipe connection to create a watertight seal. They are reliable, removable, reusable, and easy to install with just a pair of pliers or wrenches.
There are different types of compression stop valves, such as the SharkBite compression angle stop valve, which is ideal for maintenance and repair without needing to shut off the water to the entire home. It has a 1/2 inch compression inlet connection, making installation quick and easy, and a quarter-turn, full-port brass ball valve for smooth operation. This valve is compatible with copper pipes and does not require any special tools, crimping, glue, or soldering for installation. It can even be installed in wet lines.
Another type of compression stop valve is the multi-turn valve, which requires multiple turns of the handle to open and close a rubber gasket that pushes against the valve opening to close it. Compression stop valves vary in inlet diameter, with common sizes being 1/2 inch, 3/8 inch, and 5/8 inch.
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Frequently asked questions
Plastic sink valves can be turned on by twisting the handle in a clockwise direction.
Quarter-turn valves only require a quarter-turn of the handle to open or close. They are more reliable and expensive than multi-turn valves.
Multi-turn valves, or compression-type valves, require multiple turns of the handle to open and close a rubber gasket that pushes against the valve opening to close it.
Three-way stop valves have an inlet and two outlets. They are often found under kitchen sinks and feed both the hot tap and dishwasher.
If your plastic sink valve is stuck in the shutoff position, you can try pushing it back in. However, it is recommended to replace the valve to avoid potential leaks.
