Ball Valves
Updated February 20, 2026
Use a rotating ball with a bore to control flow. Quarter-turn operation provides quick, reliable shut-off. The most common residential shut-off valve.
Overview
Ball valves use a hollow, perforated sphere that rotates 90 degrees to open or close. Quarter-turn operation: handle parallel to pipe is open, perpendicular is closed. The most reliable shut-off valve type for residential plumbing -- they seal completely, operate easily even after years of non-use, and last 15-25 years. The standard replacement for old gate valves that get stuck or fail to close fully. Available in brass, stainless steel, and PVC for different applications.
Pros & Cons
- Quick shut-off
- Reliable seal
- Long lifespan
- Low maintenance
- Not for throttling
- More expensive than gate valves
Key Features
- Quarter-turn operation -- fast, easy, and unmistakable open/closed position
- Full-port design provides unrestricted flow when open (no flow reduction)
- Positive seal -- closes completely with no dripping
- Works reliably even after years without use (unlike gate valves that seize)
- Available in threaded, soldered, push-fit, PEX crimp, and press-fit connections
Sizing & Selection
1/2 inch for fixture supply lines, 3/4 inch for branch lines and water heater, 1 inch for main shut-offs. Full-port valves have an internal bore that matches the pipe size -- no flow restriction. Standard-port valves have a smaller bore and restrict flow slightly. Always use full-port for main shut-offs.
Installation
Threaded: wrap with Teflon tape, thread into fitting, tighten with wrench. Soldered: clean and flux pipe ends, solder with the valve in the open position (heat can damage the seats if closed). Push-fit (SharkBite): cut, deburr, push on. PEX crimp: slide ring, insert fitting, crimp. Install with the handle accessible -- you need to reach it in an emergency.
Maintenance
- Exercise the valve annually -- turn it off and on once. This prevents the ball from seizing in place.
- If the valve drips from the stem, the packing nut may need a quarter turn tighter.
- Ball valves are generally not repairable -- if they fail to seal, replace the valve.
- PVC ball valves in outdoor applications: protect from UV and freezing.
Buying Tips
- Brass with chrome plating is the standard for residential water supply. Buy name-brand: Apollo, Watts, or SharkBite.
- Full-port is worth the small premium over standard-port, especially on main lines.
- Push-fit ball valves (-15) are the fastest way to add a shut-off anywhere -- no tools needed.
- Replace every gate valve in your home with a ball valve when the opportunity arises. Gate valves are the number one cause of stuck shut-offs.
- Install a full-port ball valve as your main water shut-off. In an emergency, you need a valve that closes fully and quickly.