Plumbing question - ball vs gate valve

[WiscoFishNut]

My new setup has a single drain and single return and I'm wondering about what type of valves I should use. I bought 2 ball valves with unions to start with, but I'm wondering if I should use a gate valve for the drain. My return pump has a controller, so I'm not worried about that side. Thoughts?

 

[Justfebreezeit]

With a single drain you don't need any kind of valve to regulate it, but i'm assuming you want a valve in the event you want to remove the sump? If that's the case a union will solve that issue.

 

[jaxredsoxfan]

I find ball valves better for on or off applications, and gate valves better for adjusting flow. Because you are using it in a gravity drain situation I think either would be ok but if I were buying from scratch I'd go with a gate. Hope that helps

 

[ravi197699]

I agree with jaxredsoxfan, ball valves are great for on off application and gate valves are great to fine tune the flow but most of them don't close all the way so they can't be used on something that you like to close shut.

 

[WiscoFishNut]

Thanks for the feedback folks! I think I'll stick with ball valves for now. Can always swap em out later I suppose if needed

 

[Jonathan Troutt]

I agree with jaxredsoxfan, ball valves are great for on off application and gate valves are great to fine tune the flow but most of them don't close all the way so they can't be used on something that you like to close shut.

Really all my gate values can close all the way and not allow water through them.

 

[ravi197699]

Really all my gate values can close all the way and not allow water through them.

I have three 4 gate valves that I bought from zoro and they have flat surface that does not go all the way, I am assuming brand and application might be the difference..

 

[Jonathan Troutt]

I have three 4 gate valves that I bought from zoro and they have flat surface that does not go all the way, I am assuming brand and application might be the difference..

I find that interesting. I dont see what the purpose of making a valve that doesnt close all the way is. What if that one time comes around that you just need to close it? Thank you for sharing though I will remember to always check and make sure any gate valves I buy will close all the way.