How to Choose Angle Valves: A Comprehensive Guide

Angle valves, although small in size, are essential components in home installations. They are used to connect water pipes to faucets, toilets, and water heaters, allowing control and adjustment of water pressure. So, how can you choose a good angle valve? Let's delve into the relevant knowledge about angle valves.

1. What are Angle Valves? Angle valves, also known as angle stop valves, are modified from ball valves. They share similarities with ball valves but differ in the angle of the outlet and inlet, which forms a 90-degree angle in angle valves. Hence, they are called angle valves, triangular valves, or corner valves due to the 90-degree angle shape at the valve's location.

2. The Functions of Angle Valves:

• Serve as connectors between the internal and external water outlets.
• Allow adjustment of water pressure if it is too high by partially closing the angle valve.
• Serve as on/off switches. If a faucet leaks, for example, you can shut off the angle valve without affecting the water supply to other areas in the house.
• Provide an aesthetic appearance. Therefore, angle valves are essential plumbing accessories in home renovations, and designers often include them in their plans.

3. Characteristics of Angle Valves:

• Simple flow path design with minimal dead zones and eddy current areas. This, coupled with the self-cleaning effect of the medium, effectively prevents clogging.
• Low flow resistance with a higher flow coefficient compared to single-seat valves, equivalent to the flow coefficient of double-seat valves.
• Suitable for high-viscosity fluids, fluids with suspended particles, and applications that require right-angle piping.
• The typical flow direction is bottom-in and side-out, but it can be reversed depending on specific requirements.

4. Where Should Angle Valves be Installed in Home Decor? In home renovations, angle valves are indispensable plumbing fittings in places such as bathrooms and kitchens. They are essential for connecting faucets, water heaters, toilets, and other sanitary fixtures. Generally, angle valves are used at water outlets. When a faucet leaks, for example, you can shut off the corresponding angle valve for repair or replacement without affecting the water supply to other areas, providing an additional safeguard for plumbing fixtures.

5. Precautions for Installing Angle Valves:

• Professional installation is recommended, ensuring proper drainage to avoid unexpected damage.
• Before installation, ensure that any sand particles or debris are cleaned from the water pipe connection to prevent blockage that may affect the ceramic valve core, leading to water leakage.
• During installation, do not directly grip the handwheel of the angle valve for tightening. Instead, wrap several layers of cloth or paper towels around the valve body as a buffer and use a wrench to tighten it. Direct gripping may scratch the surface of the angle valve, affecting its appearance.
• After installation, open the main water valve to check for any leaks in the angle valve. It usually takes about 15 minutes for the water pressure to stabilize. If the angle valve has not been connected to water, it should remain closed.

6. Key Considerations for Selecting Angle Valves:

• Material: It is preferable to choose angle valves made of copper, as they are heavier and have a longer lifespan. Zinc alloy angle valves available in the market may be cheaper but are prone to breakage after a year of use, leading to inconvenient repairs.
• Valve Core: Look for angle valves with ceramic valve cores, as they are crucial to the valve's durability and tightness. Pay attention to the quality of the sealing ring and ceramic discs inside the valve core. A valve with a soft and smooth feel usually has a longer lifespan.
• Plating: Check the plating quality, focusing on glossiness, the absence of bubbles, and scratches. A high-quality angle valve should have a smooth and flawless surface texture.
• Brand: The most important factor when choosing an angle valve is the brand. Established brands provide better quality and reliable customer service. Avoid purchasing "no-name" products solely for convenience or cost savings to prevent difficulties in claiming warranties in case of issues.

7. Clearing Blockages in Angle Valves: Step 1: Unplug the power and close both angle valves. Step 2: Loosen the hot water outlet nut, plug it to prevent water flow from the water heater. Simultaneously, loosen the cold water outlet nut and connect a hose (e.g., a shower hose) for drainage. Drain until no water flows from the cold water outlet. For a 50L water heater, drainage typically takes about an hour. Step 3: Remove the hose connected to the cold water inlet and connect it to the hot water outlet. Connect the other end to a faucet and open it for about a minute, then plug the cold water inlet. Allow the cold water to remain in the inner tank for a while. Open the cold water inlet for drainage, repeating the process until the drained water is clean. Step 4: Tighten the nuts of the cold water inlet and hot water outlet, open the angle valves, and open the hot water faucet. Once water flows out, close the faucet. This completes the procedure.

By following these guidelines, you can choose the right angle valve for your needs and ensure proper installation and maintenance. Remember to prioritize quality and consider reputable brands to guarantee a reliable and long-lasting plumbing system.

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