Valves

An OS&Y valve is a type of gate valve used in sprinkler and standpipe systems as a control valve. Read this guide to when and why they are used.

Fire hose valves on standpipe systems require regular inspections, plus tests and as-needed maintenance. Learn the essential NFPA requirements.

Learn when to use indicating valves on fire protection systems and how NFPA standards governing these devices have changed.

Globe valve vs. gate valve vs. ball valve—which is best for the job? QRFS explains how to pick the right valve for specific applications.

Backflow preventers offer the best protection against contamination of city water supplies A check valve provides a basic form of backflow prevention, preventing water from flowing in the wrong direction. National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) … Read more

Check Key tools make it easy and safe to service check valves in backflow preventers Maintaining backflow preventers is vital to ensuring that harmful contaminants from building systems don’t pollute city water supplies. But without … Read more

Backflow preventers stop harmful contaminants from polluting a city’s drinking water City water mains provide water for most homes and buildings, including the water used in fire protection systems. But the stagnant water that fills … Read more

Antifreeze isn’t always the best—or the only—approach to fire sprinkler system freeze prevention. Learn how ball valves, drum drips, and other equipment can prevent damage and failure.

With threaded ports for gauges and a drain valve, backflow-preventing sprinkler check valves can expedite the code-compliant installation of system risers. Read on to learn more about the design and installation of “shotgun” risers—and how they compare to common alternatives.