How plumbing innovation is saving installers time

Technology is all around us – and advancements are known to make our lives easier. Whether it’s keeping us connected, improving performance, or changing how we work, there’s no doubt that technology is critical to development.

In the world of plumbing, things are no different. Technology has long had a role to play in the creation of plumbing systems and the components that bring them together, elevating levels of performance and efficiency as new technological advancements have emerged.

Today, as well as improving the performance of plumbing systems, technology is having a direct impact on installers. In this blog, we’ll explore:

• The need for new technology in the plumbing and heating industry
• How technology is saving plumbers time on the job
• The latest push-fit valve technology from JG Speedfit and Reliance Valves

Every plumber knows the importance of valves in creating plumbing systems that are efficient, reliable and safe. However, when installing valves in domestic properties, a few challenges can stand in the way of getting jobs completed smoothly.

It’s no secret that modern homes are getting smaller, often making it trickier for plumbers to access some parts of plumbing systems easily. Add to that the evolution of design trends which are seeing most of the pipework neatly hidden from view, and plumbers can regularly be faced with difficult installations.

Where valves need to be fitted, these requirements for compact designs are heightened. Plumbers require valves that are reliable, that can deliver tangible improvements to plumbing systems, and that can be installed easily – even in hard-to-reach places.

In short, innovations in valve technology are what is needed to drive forward the potential of water control valves and make them a practical addition in every home.

Many plumbers will be familiar with the JG Speedfit and Reliance Valves brands. As the pioneer of push-fit technology, JG Speedfit underpins installation efficiency while enhancing system quality and longevity. Similarly, Reliance Valves is the go-to specialist for water control – be it pressure or temperature – to strengthen system performance, efficiency and safety.

By combining the technologies of Reliance Valves and JG Speedfit, plumbers can confidently and quickly install critical water control valves with the ease of push-fit technology. In practice, that means improved installation speed and less complexity when working in tight spaces.

A key feature of the Reliance Valves with JG Speedfit connections range is that there are no tools required for installation. Instead, pipework – both copper and plastic – can be pushed into the valve with a simple twist, with the innovative collet doing the rest. Here, stainless steel teeth grip onto the pipe to create a leak-proof connection – no hot works required!

As well as improving installation safety by removing the need for hot works, being able to install water control valves by hand – requiring only pipe cutters – makes working in tight spaces much easier. In most properties, where space is limited, this equips installers with a practical solution – all backed by the proven expertise of two leading brands.

1. Nickel Plated Lever Ball Valve

Isolating the water supply to appliances or specific parts of a plumbing system is essential for minimising disruption when carrying out maintenance work, negating the need to drain down the entire system. The Nickel Plated Lever Ball Valve makes that possible and is suitable for use alongside appliances like washing machines and dishwashers, as well as under sinks to facilitate control of hot and cold water supplies.

2. Easifit TMV2/3 Thermostatic Mixing Valve

Thermostatic Mixing Valves (TMVs) are essential for delivering water at safe temperatures. They do that by mixing hot and cold water ahead of each outlet, and in some applications – such as under baths – they are a legal requirement. The compact and lightweight design of the Easifit TMV makes it a popular option for plumbers working in tight spaces, while push-fit technology further simplifies installation.

3. 312 Compact Pressure Reducing Valve

Managing water pressure throughout a property is critical to system efficiency and performance, making Pressure Reducing Valves (PRVs) an important feature. The compact 312 PRV is adjustable between 1.5 and 6.0 bar, making it perfect for domestic systems, while its design means all working components are housed within a single cartridge, streamlining future maintenance.

By combining the potential of Reliance Valves and JG Speedfit, RWC is ensuring innovation in plumbing technology. In practice, the innovative water control valves with hassle-free connections are moving the industry forward, supporting plumbers to strengthen the performance of individual domestic systems, while navigating the complexities of tight spaces with straightforward and easy-to-use solutions.