There are many isolating valves throughout the plumbing world. They carry out a really important task, as they halt the flow of a very important liquid, which is of course, water. Therefore if you suffer from a dripping tap or a leak of any kind, the isolator will can be shut off to allow work to be carried out on the problem. It means that the complete system doesnt need to be closed off.This type of valve is made with an internal ball bearing, with a hole drilled straight through its middle.Basic Operation:When the lever is turned on the pipe, then, the ball bearing turns inside and the drilled hole lines up with the pipe and allows the water to flow. As it is turned back off at right angles to the pipe it will stop the flow of water. This is a low maintenance unit with few moving parts. You can operate this with a screwdriver by inserting the driver into a groove fitted in the pipe which can be turned either on (in line) or off (90 to the pipe). Charlton Plumbers fit all types of isolator valves. Note: As stated the valve can also be operated valve with a lever, this is known as a lever valve. The lever makes it much easier to operate. The isolator valve is very useful and works hard in a plumbing environment, but not pretty on the eye, hence, they are nearly always fitted on pipes in cupboards the loft. The lever valve is known as a full bore lever valve as it has a hole drilled in the internal ball bearing that is the same diameter as the pipe itself. Showers have these fitted, giving a strong and constant flow of water. They are also in compression and push-fit styles, the latter often being made from plastic. A Charlton Plumber is an expert with all valves.Sometimes you can see this type of valve in a push-fit construction with a groove made from plastic, however this groove can wear due to constant adjustment by a screwdriver. Try not to use this type.
Local Isolator Valve