Near Intersection of I-35 & I-90 Southern Mn. | GinNB - 6/29/2014 18:29
Ball valves handle low voltage and current at the valve better than solenoids as well. They just slow down a bit at the point that the solenoids bang shut. If you're the type to drain your system for winter rather than run antifreeze through it, remember that the balls can hold fluid inside them and break if they are closed, so cycling them open/closed and making sure they really are drained is a must.
Yes, there can be freezing problems with any ball valves (electric or manual). When stored in the closed position, there may be liquid trapped inside which can expand and cause damage if it freezes. For manual valves I would just leave them at least partially open.
For electric valves I would always wire them with some type of electrical disconnect. WeatherPak connectors are readily available and work well for this. Cycle the valves to the OPEN position and disconnect them. That way they will be stored in the open position and any remaining liquid will have an escape route |