An Overview of Common Supply Stop Types

An Overview of Common Supply Stop Types

A supply stop is a plumbing valve that allows quick access to the water shut off for a fixture. This device is located under each water-using appliance and fixture in a home/structure. Common household appliances/fixtures that require the use of a supply stop include faucets, ice makers, washing machines, dishwashers, and toilets.

True to its name, a supply stop completely stops the flow of fluid through a pipe, allowing for routine maintenance or replacement of an appliance/fixture. A supply stop is often necessary as a safety feature that may be manually operated or incorporated into an automated system.

While all supply stops serve the same function, there are a variety of options to choose from. However, a good place to start is the type. Below are common supply stop types for toilet, faucet, ice maker, and washing machine applications:

• Angle
  Normally used when the water line comes out from the wall and the outlet side of the valve will be perpendicular to the inlet side. The handle of an angle supply stop is parallel to the wall and usually faces the front for easy access.

• Straight
  Typically found when the water supply pipe comes up from below the floor or cabinet. The fixture supply tube connects to the top of the valve in the same line as the supply pipe. The handle of a straight supply stop is located in the middle of the valve body, between the inlet and outlet ports.

• Dual
  Contain one inlet and two outlets. These are often seen under kitchen sinks, where they are used to feed both the hot tap of the faucet as well as the dishwasher. Three-way supply stops can come in a few different configurations. Some are cross-shaped and have the two outlet ports facing in opposite directions, some have outlets in an “L” configuration, and some have outlets in a “Y” configuration.

The straightforward operation of a supply stop makes this device often forgotten. However, that doesn’t make it any less important to the function of a plumbing system. A.Y. McDonald carries multiple angle, straight, and dual supply stops with a number of options attached. For more information on supply stops, including their parts, handle options, common finish materials, and connection options, feel free to take the ‘Supply Stops’ AYU course, call our customer service department at 1-800-AY-CARES, or fill out a Contact Us form on aymcdonald.com.