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Top 7 Valves for HVAC Systems: How to Choose the Right Type for Your Project

2025-07-20

 Introduction: Why Valve Selection Matters in HVAC Systems

 
 
By the end of this article, you’ll know:
 
* Which valves are best for chilled water, heating, and refrigerant systems

* Key factors to consider when selecting HVAC valves (pressure, material, and flow control)
 
* How to reduce energy waste and maintenance costs with the right valve choice
 
Let’s dive in!

 

Common HVAC Valves & Materials Specification

 
Valve Type
Primary Function
Standard Materials
Typical HVAC Applications
Large-diameter flow control/isolation
Body: Cast Iron, Stainless Steel (CF8M)
Disc: SS304, Aluminum Bronze
Chilled water systems, AHUs
Refrigerant/steam line shutoff
Body: Brass (CW617N), SS316
Ball: PTFE-coated stainless
Heat pumps, chillers, boiler feed
Prevent backflow
Body: Cast Iron, SS304
Disc: Nylon + SS spring
Pump discharge, condenser lines
Main pipeline isolation
Body: Ductile Iron (QT450), Carbon Steel (WCB)
Gate: SS304
Steam mains, fire sprinkler lines
Precise flow regulation
Body: Brass, SS304
Stem: SS304
Boiler feedwater, manifold control
Balancing Valve
Hydronic system flow distribution
Body: Ductile Iron
Measuring ports: Copper alloy
HVAC branch circuits, radiant floors
Pressure Reducing Valve
Maintain downstream pressure
Body: Carbon Steel
Diaphragm: EPDM rubber
Steam stations, high-rise water supply
Solenoid Valve
Automated refrigerant/condensate control
Body: Brass, SS304
Coil: Class H insulation
Chillers, humidifier water lines
 

Gate Valves – For Straight-Line Flow Shutoff

 
Best for: Main water supply lines, steam systems, and infrequent operation points
 
Gate valves provide unrestricted flow when fully open, making them ideal for isolation applications where minimal pressure drop is critical.
 
Key Benefits:
* Full-bore design – Zero flow restriction when open
* Bi-directional sealing – Works for both forward/reverse flow
* Durable construction – Often used in high-temperature steam systems
 
Common HVAC Uses:
 
* Main water supply shutoff
 
* Steam boiler isolation
 
* Large-diameter piping systems
 
Note: Not suitable for throttling – use only for fully open/closed applications.
 

Butterfly Valves – The Go-To for Large HVAC Systems

 
Best for: Chilled water systems, cooling towers, and air handling units
 
Butterfly valves are lightweight, cost-effective, and easy to install, making them a popular choice for HVAC applications requiring large-diameter flow control.
 
Key Benefits:
* Low pressure drop – Minimizes energy loss in water distribution
* Compact design – Saves space compared to gate valves
* Quick operation – Ideal for systems requiring frequent adjustments
 
Common HVAC Uses:
 
* Cooling tower isolation
 
* Chilled water shut-off
 
* Air handling unit (AHU) control
 
Looking for durable butterfly valves? Check our HVAC valve series.
 

Ball Valves – Reliable Shut-Off for Refrigerant & Heating Lines

 
Best for: Refrigeration systems, heat pumps, and hydronic heating
 
Ball valves provide bubble-tight shut-off, making them essential for HVAC refrigerant lines and heating systems where leakage must be avoided.
 
Key Benefits:
* Zero leakage – Critical for refrigerant and gas applications
* Durability – Stainless steel or brass options for corrosion resistance
* Full-port design – Reduces flow restriction
 
Common HVAC Uses:
 
* Refrigerant line isolation
 
* Boiler feed water control
 
* Heat exchanger shut-off
 

Check Valves – Preventing Backflow in Chiller Systems

 
Best for: Pump protection, chillers, and condenser water systems
 
Check valves (or non-return valves) ensure one-way flow, preventing costly damage from water hammer or reverse flow in HVAC systems.
 
Key Benefits:
* Automatic operation – No manual intervention needed
* Reduces pump wear – Protects against backflow damage
* Silent vs. swing check options – Choose based on system requirements
 
Common HVAC Uses:
 
* Chilled water pump discharge
 
* Condenser water systems
 
* Boiler feed lines

Globe Valves – Precision Flow Control

 
Best for: Boiler feedwater, condenser water, and throttling applications
 
Key Benefits:
* Excellent throttling capability
* Finer control than gate/butterfly valves
* Available in angled designs for compact spaces
 
Common HVAC Uses:
 
* Boiler feedwater control
 
* Condenser water balancing
 
* Steam radiator control
 
Pro Tip: Use Y-pattern globe valves for high-pressure steam to reduce erosion.
 

Pressure Reducing Valves (PRVs) – System Protection

 
Best for: Steam systems, high-rise HVAC, and pump discharge
 
PRVs automatically lower downstream pressure, preventing pipe damage and ensuring consistent operation.
 
Key Benefits:
* Maintains safe system pressures
* Reduces water hammer risk
* Self-adjusting for load changes
 
Common HVAC Uses:
 
* Steam distribution networks
 
* High-rise building water supply
 
* Pump discharge protection
 
Spec Check: Always size PRVs based on max flow rate, not just pipe diameter.
 

Bonus: Valve Selection Checklist

 
When specifying HVAC valves, always verify:
 
* Pressure/temperature rating vs. system requirements
 
* Material compatibility (e.g., brass for water, stainless for refrigerant)
 
* Flow characteristics (full-port vs. reduced-port)
 
* Actuation method (manual, electric, pneumatic)
 
* Certifications (ASME, ANSI, ISO for industrial projects)
 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About HVAC Valves

 

* What is the best valve for chilled water systems?

 
Butterfly valves are ideal for large-diameter chilled water pipes, while ball valves work best for smaller refrigerant lines.
 

* How do I prevent water hammer in HVAC systems?

 
Use slow-closing check valves or install pressure surge arrestors to minimize hydraulic shock.
 

* Can I use brass valves for refrigerant applications?

 
Yes, but stainless steel or forged brass valves are recommended for high-pressure refrigerant systems.
 

* What’s the difference between a balancing valve and a regular globe valve?

 
Balancing valves have calibrated flow measurement ports, allowing precise hydraulic balancing in HVAC systems.
 

* How often should HVAC valves be maintained?

 
Annual inspections are recommended, with lubrication and seal replacement as needed.
 

* Where can I buy high-quality HVAC valves in bulk?

 
WEIZIDOM Solution supplies ISO-certified valves for HVAC systems—contact us for wholesale pricing!
 

Need Custom Valve Solutions?

 
As a leading valve manufacturer, WSD Solution provides:

* HVAC-specific valve designs

* Material customization (brass, stainless, Ductile Iron)

* Bulk order discounts
 
Contact Us: