About Sprinkler System Valves
Valves are the unsung heroes of the sprinkler system. They are integral in sprinkler systems but are often unseen and forgotten. Here at PlumbersStock, we offer hundreds of sprinkler valves to choose from, so it is essential to understand the uses of the different types. Our valves are split into various categories:
- Electric sprinkler valves
- Manual sprinkler valves
- Battery-operated sprinkler valves
- Drip pressure regulators
- Sprinkler valve kits
What Is a Sprinkler Valve?
The sprinkler valve's function is to control and regulate the amount of water distributed. This can be a central valve with only one control or control many zones. They regulate the amount of water your lawn receives, but it is also beneficial in an emergency. If you find yourself in need of turning off your sprinklers in a hurry, you will want to go straight to the sprinkling valve. This is also very useful when preparing your home for winter, often known as winterizing your sprinkler system. Valves make this task easier. If water is left on during winter, it can freeze and expand. This can cause extensive damage to your pipes and the parts connected to them.
Anti-Siphon Valves
Anti-siphon sprinkler valves allow for easy access for maintenance or if you need to shut off your water flow. These valves come with backflow prevention that is built into the device. The primary purpose of backflow prevention is to stop any water that may be contaminated from entering back into the water system used for drinking water. This helps keep your drinking water clean and safe from any outside contaminants. Although the anti-siphon sprinkler control valves have built-in backflow prevention, some local laws and legislation might require extra protection. Consult your local regulation guide before installing a new system to ensure you meet requirements. These valves can be either manual or electric. The electric versions are great for busy people who do not have time to regulate the watering processes.
Anti-siphon valves are most commonly made up of PVC pipe and come in brass or bronze varieties. The brass and bronze varieties will have a higher initial cost but tend to last much longer than PVC pipe, which could save you money in the long run.
In-Line Valves
In-line sprinkler control valves are installed below the ground, which allows for them to be located in any place in your yard without unsightly sprinkler valve parts poking up through the lawn. This also provides greater safety as you do not have to worry about tripping over the valves or hitting them with the lawnmower. In-line valves also do not have a built-in backflow preventer like the anti-siphon valves. They are often used with a separate backflow preventer, but it does not come with the part itself.
An in-line sprinkler control valve can be either manual electric, much like the anti-siphon valve. They, too, are most commonly made from PVC pipe but can be found in brass and bronze varieties. Valve boxes are often used with in-line valves to create extra protection from harm.
Manufacturers
The valves found here are made by quality manufacturers. These are the best the industry offers in sprinkler system parts: Irritrol, Toro, Rain Bird, K-Rain, Orbit, and more.
Buy Sprinkler System Valves Online
Valves can make a big difference in any sprinkling system, and PlumbersStock is dedicated to providing you with great products. Browse through our inventory to find the best sprinkler valves and parts available. If you are having trouble with your project or selecting the best sprinkler valve part, please contact one of our customer service professionals for help with your lawn & garden.
If you are in need of a free sprinkler design, check out our Sprinkler Design Center.
Resources:
What Is an Anti-Siphon Valve
How to Replace a Sprinkler Valve
