How to solder a ball valve

Need to solder a ball valve? You’re in the right place. Watch and learn as we breakdown the supply list and demonstrate the technique. Happy soldering.
Note: Compliance with local codes and regulations is the responsibility of the installer. Follow all manufacturers’ installation instructions and guidelines. Safety is of utmost important when attempting any plumbing project.

[@powhoundus]

Very nicely done with one small error. I’ve seen at least a dozen “experts” videos on ball valve soldering. You are the only one that does not allow the valve to cool after doing one side before moving to the other side. If you are at all concerned about protecting the plastic in the valve, that seems like a no brainer thing to do. Also, many recommend a wet rag wrapped around the central part of the valve for the same reason. Otherwise, excellent video. If you wanted a complete tutorial maybe add a brief segment on soldering these valves in the vertical position but hey, there’s lots of other references out there for that anyway.

[@jbossnack]

I am no plumber but did this on my main shutoff in 2014 and have never had leaks. I think I did 200 or more solder joints that weekend. My arms were hurting after all that twisting/cutting and preparing the pipe. Copper lasts a lifetime.

[@erickdesart4246]

That was helpful. Thank you very much.

[@edflores1807]

You are applying too much heat... you almost cook the flux ... just look at the color of the pipe!! Excessive heat....

[@josephastier7421]

NIBCO wants people to install valves this way so they can sell them another one.

[@gregorsmith8541]

And you can also find opinions that the valve should be taken apart to protect the plastic seals, not sure how much heat is put into the valve body and how durable the seal materials are.

[@igorsukhenko1964]

Hi, why do I need to keep a ball valve in the closed position during soldering? I am going to solder a ball valve. I went to DYI forum and asked if I need to keep the ball valve open or closed? One "expert" replied that the valve must be in the open position to let the hit go away. So, should it be open or closed?

[@coreyk2998]

Depends on manufacturer. Some are open, some should be closed. Read ball valve label

[@gyver471]

Applying too much heat

[@gradylucas5265]

Is this type of valve directional? I mean, is it possible to install it backwards or can it go on the pipe in either direction?

[@RayMirshahi]

These are bidirectional. It doesn't matter which way you install them.

[@garymucher4082]

I realize this is an older video, but I ask, is there a directional way to install a ball valve? I mean is one side devoted to the input and the other output? On gate valves they have an arrow for direction. But ball valve have nothing. Just wondering...

[@mrdew9042]

With a ball valve there is no direction, just make sure its installed the handle can turn freely, and if two or more are installed in parallel, make sure they turn the same way for uniformity an example would be a boiler system. Hopefully that helps

[@myaccount13579]

Always include the WHY for each thing you say.

[@theprophetez1838]

I was told to have the valve in the open position. Why to you insist it should be closed? My guess would be to keep the heat so to speak.

[@Jimo225]

my guess is that if its in the open position then the ball is making a tight fit between the nylon and the copper so that the heat will transfer to the nylon that is pressed up tight in there. Maybe if its closed then the ball isn't squeezing the nylon up againsn't the hot valve body.