As its name implies the isolating valve carries out an‘on/off’ job in a plumbing system. If you have a dripping tap it is easier to isolate the tap on its own rather than an entire system. The isolation valves main component is a ball bearing, however it is drilled through leaving a hole. When this ball is turned so that it sits in-line with the pipe, it lets flow through the hole and when turned again at right angles to the pipe it will stop (or isolate) the water flow. It is a very effective yet low maintenance valve with few working parts. In order to actually operate the valve you can use a a screwdriver as a groove is cut in the valve body, which can be turned either on (in line with the pipe) or off (at 90 degrees to the pipe). Regents Park Plumbers fit isolating valves. This type of valve can also be operated by a lever, and so is it is called a ‘lever’ valve. The lever makes it much easier to operate. These valves are functional but not pretty on the eye so are nearly always put away in cupboards or in the loft. The lever valve is known as a ‘full bore’ lever valve as it has a hole drilled in the internal ball bearing that is the same diameter as the pipework.


A common fit in shower plumbing systems where you want a strong and unhindered flow of water. This isolation valve comes in compression and also push-fit types, the latter often being made entirely of plastic. A Regents Park Plumber is experienced with valves.


Sometimes if a plastic valve is used the actual operating groove for the screwdriver is often replaced with a stubby handle. You sometimes may come across an isolation valve of the push-fit type with a groove made from plastic but since the groove will wear out due to the constant use with a screwdriver for adjustment it is probably a good idea to avoid this type.