Which type of valve is code-approved for building water service lines?

The gate valve is often the preferred choice for building water service lines due to its efficiency in providing an unobstructed flow of water when fully open. It is designed to be either fully open or fully closed, allowing minimal resistance to flow and thus reducing pressure drop. This characteristic makes gate valves particularly suitable for water service applications, as they ensure a constant water supply without turbulence or friction loss, which can be critical in a plumbing system.

Additionally, building codes typically mandate the use of specific types of valves that can withstand the conditions of water service lines, including pressure and corrosion resistance. Gate valves generally meet these requirements effectively. Furthermore, they are designed to be durable and have a long operational life, making them a reliable choice for water supply systems in buildings.

While other types of valves, such as ball, globe, or check valves, serve their specialized purposes within plumbing systems, their design and functional characteristics may not be as suitable for the specific demands of a water service line compared to gate valves.