Angle Stop Valves: Applications, Types, and Installation Guidelines

Angle stop valves provide a connection point between residential and commercial water supply lines and fixtures positioned perpendicularly to the water supply. They are installed to offer a quick shutoff and isolation to the water flowing to the fixture in case of maintenance, replacement, or emergency. Their design, a 90° flow path, allows the perpendicular connection between water supply lines and fixtures. This article further covers these applications and how these stop valves are used in industrial and residential systems. Also, types of angle stop valves are discussed, along with guidelines for installing these valves.

Table of contents

• Angle stop valve applications
• Angle stop valve types
• Angle stop valve installation guidelines
• FAQs

Angle stop valve applications

Angle stop valves are typically used throughout residential, commercial, and industrial plumbing systems. Angle stop valves connect water fixtures to the water supply pipes running through the plumbing network. The fixtures are installed perpendicular to the water supply pipes, making the angle stop valves necessary. The valves' primary role is to isolate water fixtures from the water supply so work can be done on the fixture (e.g., maintenance and replacement).

In industrial systems, angle stop valves also provide isolation to perform maintenance on a specific system section. Additionally, angle stop valves are used for pressure control. The right-angle design of the valve provides a pressure drop across the valve to limit pressure spikes in the system. Finally, angle stop valves can be used when there is a need for a 90° flow direction change.

Angle stop valve types

There are many angle stop valves to choose from when planning an application. They are categorized into two main categories: the type of valve and the pipe material or connection type.

Valve type

Three primary valve types are used for angle stop valves: ball valves, globe valves, and gate valves.

• Angle stop ball valve: Angle stop ball valves are preferred for residential and commercial water systems. Ball valves are quarter-turn valves, meaning the handle needs to be turned 90° to open or close the valve fully. The valve can be easily closed and quickly closed in the case of an emergency (e.g., pipe rupture). Both globe and gate valves are multi-turn valves, meaning the valve stem must rotate more than 360° to open or close the valve fully.
• Angle stop globe valve: The main benefit of using an angle stop globe valve is its sealing properties. A globe valve's closing mechanism (i.e., plug) can be pressed against the valve seat without damaging either, providing a tight seal for applications that require zero leakage.
• Angle stop gate valve: Angle stop gate valves are typically used in industrial processes, such as oil and wastewater flow control. Older commercial and residential plumbing systems may still have gate valves. These should be replaced with angle stop ball valves. The primary benefit of using an angle stop gate valve is that it is more readily available in larger sizes than the other valve types. Also, gate valves can withstand higher temperatures and pressures.

Pipe material or connection type

• Compression angle: Compression angle stop valves use compression fittings to connect copper or PEX tubing. These stop valves are relatively easy to install and can handle high pressure.
• Sweat angle: Sweat angle stop valves are soldered onto copper pipes. Although more complicated to install, these angle stop valves provide a strong, permanent, leak-proof connection.
• FIP angle: FIP means female iron pipe. A FIP angle stop valve screws onto a male threaded pipe. These screw on easily to the pipe and offer a strong connection.
• CPVC angle: A CPVC angle stop valve is used with CPVC pipes. Solvent cement is necessary to form a secure connection.
• Push-fit angle: Also known as push-to-connect valves, push-fit angle stop valves are suitable for copper, PEX, and CPVC pipes. The valve's design provides a secure connection simply by pushing the pipes into the valve's ports.

Angle stop valve installation guidelines

Use the following guidelines to assist in installing an angle stop valve.

• Valve type: Whether installed in an existing or new system, choose an angle stop valve that fits the system's requirements. For example, choose an angle stop ball valve for a residential or commercial system. Choose a compression angle stop valve if working with copper or PEX tubing.
• Valve location: In residential and commercial systems, angle stop valves should be installed where water pipes come out of walls to connect with fixtures. Typically, these valves are found under sinks, behind toilets, and at the water supply for washing machines. For industrial systems, install the angle stop valve in areas where isolation may be necessary in the future or where pressure needs to be limited.
  • Accessibility: When choosing the installation location, ensure that the valve will be easily accessible in case of an emergency.
• Installation instructions: The instructions for installing an angle stop valve vary depending on the type of valve and where it will be used. For example, push-fit angle stop valves require the pipe to be inserted into the valve, whereas sweat angle stop valves require soldering. Before selecting a valve, understand the installation requirements to ensure they are feasible for the application.
• Local codes: Check with and understand local regulations around installing angle stop valves. While the process may seem simple, sometimes local regulations can complicate matters.
• Valve material: Select the valve body and seal material to handle the application's specific media. PVC and brass valves are suitable for drinking water, and EPDM seals are preferred. If the media is corrosive, stainless steel may be a better choice for the body, and the valve's seal material can be determined by reviewing our chemical resistance guide.

FAQs

What is an angle stop valve used for?

An angle stop valve is used throughout residential, commercial, and industrial systems to provide isolation, pressure control, or flow direction change.

What is the difference between an angle stop valve and a straight stop valve?

Angle stop valves attach to water supply lines coming out of walls and straight stop valves attach to supply lines coming out of floors for fixtures directly above them.