Valves in pipe lines are provided to control supply of water. They are used to stop supply when any repair is carried in pipe line. Valves are devices that control the flow of fluids and gases. Some are used to regulate the rate of flow, and others are used to stop it completely to prevent flooding or allow repairs to be made.

Valves are quite diverse and may be classified into a number of basic types. Valves may also be classified by how they are actuated. For instance the compression valves, disk valves, ball valves, cartridge valves and the repairing valves.

Compression valves: this type of valve is most commonly used in the two- handle faucet. Compression valve consists of basically two valves that work in conjunction. One valve is used to control the flow of cold water, whereas the other valve controls the flow of hot water. When turned, each valve handle compresses against rubber washers, which in turn regulates the flow of water which passes through the valve.

Different compression valves have different stem designs however all utilizes the neoprene washers. The only cause for a leaky valve is a damaged washer.

Cartridge valve also known as “washer- less” valves, and are controlled by only one handle, in contrast to compression valves. Cartridge valves use a single cylindrical cartridge made of either metal or plastic, which rests inside the faucet body. When the valve handle is lifted, the valve stem raises and its holes align with the holes of the cartridge. Leaks around the base of the cartridge are usually caused by corroded O-rings.

Next are the disk valves and are also washers less. They are used mostly in single-handle kitchen sink faucets, and are identified by the cylinder located inside the faucet. The inlet hoses of the plumbing system allow hot and cold water to pass through the valves, while the outlet hole directs the water to pass through the valve spout.

Ball valves: these are referred to as washer- less valves and the used mostly in kitchens to handle the single handled sinks. Most ball valves have a cylindrical metal cap just below the handle. Tighten the cap if you find some leaks in the valve.

A leak in a washer or washer less faucet usually indicates that the working parts need replacing. One should not overlook the leaky valves and go for its repair or replacement as soon as possible.

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