Ball valve or gate valve?

Question

I found a plumber (highly recommended, long time in area) to do the outside plumbing shown here, done in a week or so, at my dad's house. (After he does his work, I'll replace the irrigation sprinkler valves.)

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I prefer the plumber to use ball valves to replace the red gate valve (water supply to house), and the blue gate valve (water supply to a sprinkler manifold). I have his estimate, but it doesn't detail what type valves he'll use. Before I ask, I wanted some comments from you guys.

A regulator will also be installed to reduce the current 115 psi water pressure.

I understand the differences/capabilities/durability of both types of valves. At least I think I know enough.

Any comments on which type valve you'd prefer in each situation?

rbowman · Accepted Answer

Are you planning to meter the flow with the valve? If not, I would go with the ball valve. I've had a lot more trouble with gate valves, between leaking around the stem, freezing up, or not being able to shut the flow off completely.

From your description you want an on/off valve. The only reason I'd use a gate would be on the sprinklers if you want to throttle the flow.

trader_4 · Answer

+1The ball type is also faster to open and close.

Mike · Answer

Water will first come through a regulator valve, reducing the current

115 psi, then through ball valve to house, and through another branch through another ball valve to sprinkler manifold. Sprinkler valves have individual pressure regulators built in to them.

There will also be a gate valve going to a hose bib.

I've also had all the same problems with gate valves that you have had.

Ball valve or gate valve?

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