Ball vales and gate vales are easily confused for “the valve that stops water from running in my house”. Most property owners are not aware of the different types of valves, how to use them and how they function. Now we don’t expect everyone to hold the knowledge of a licensed master plumber however, it is a good idea to get familiar with the type of valve you have and how to use it in case of an emergency.
The primary difference in these two valves are the way that they operate. The gate valve moves a disc up and down, when the disc is down the valve is closed and now water can flow. When the disc is open the water should flow freely into your house with no issues, as long as the valve is fully functional.
A ball valve operates just like it sounds, with a ball on the inside. This valve functions on a 90 degree turn, when the ball and a circular opening on one side of the ball. When the valve is in the open position the section of the valve that has the opening allows for water to flow freely from the city main in the street, to the inside of the home.
It is our opinion that ball valves are the most durable and last longer than other types of valves. They are easy to open and close with a simple turn as opposed to a gate valve which will require multiple turns of the handle which is not immediate like a ball valve.
The only downside with a ball valve is the cost, the are a more expensive than a gate valve but not enough for one to avoid using it.
