Dual reticulation estates, rainwater-to-toilet systems and commercial buildings with recycled water all have the same risk: someone, years later, connecting a drinking water fitting to the non-drinking supply. Identification is the main defence, and that includes the valves. That's why recycled water press ball valves come with lilac handles.
Why lilac?
Lilac is the identification colour for recycled (non-drinking) water in Australia. AS/NZS 3500.1 sets identification requirements for non-drinking water services so that pipework, fittings and outlets can't be mistaken for the drinking water system. A lilac valve handle tells the next plumber, maintenance worker or homeowner exactly what's in that line before they touch it. Check the identification requirements of your local water authority and the current standard for the full picture — pipe marking and outlet signage apply too, not just valves.
The PSA lilac range
All Austworld, lead-free, WaterMarked as listed by Austworld, pressing directly onto copper with no hot work:
| Valve | Ends | Sizes | From |
|---|---|---|---|
| Butterfly, lilac | CU x CU | DN15–DN25 | $14.05 |
| Butterfly, lilac | CU x FI | DN15–DN25 | $15.56 |
| Lever, lilac | CU x CU | DN15 up | $16.33 |
| Lever, lilac | CU x FI | DN15 up | $17.09 |
The lever versions run through DN32 ($83.80 CU x CU, $85.31 CU x FI) and beyond, which covers recycled water mains in commercial plant rooms as well as residential supply points.
Choosing between them
- Butterfly vs lever: same logic as standard valves. Butterfly for tight spaces like meter boxes and cupboards; lever for valves that will be operated regularly or need to be obvious. Our press ball valve guide covers the handle choice in detail.
- CU x CU vs CU x FI: CU x CU for inline isolation on a copper run; CU x FI where you're transitioning to threaded equipment such as a rainwater pump, toilet supply or irrigation controller — one valve does the isolation and the copper-to-thread transition.
Common mistakes
- Using a standard handle “for now”. A black or red handle on a recycled line defeats the point of identification. Fit the lilac valve from the start.
- Mixing stock on the van. Keep lilac valves bagged separately so a standard valve doesn't end up on the recycled side, or vice versa.
- Forgetting the rest of the system. The valve is one part of the identification. Pipe marking and outlet signage still apply.
Fittings for the rest of the run come from the copper press water range; the full valve range is in lead-free press ball valves.
Frequently Asked Questions
What colour is used for recycled water in Australia?
Lilac. It identifies recycled (non-drinking) water so it can't be mistaken for the drinking water supply, in line with AS/NZS 3500.1 identification requirements.
Can I use a standard ball valve on a recycled water line?
It may function, but it won't meet identification requirements for the recycled service. Use a lilac-identified valve.
Do lilac press ball valves need a special press tool?
No. They press onto copper like other press fittings. Confirm the press profile on the valve matches your jaws.
What sizes do lilac press ball valves come in?
At PSA, lilac butterfly valves come in DN15–DN25 and lilac lever valves start at DN15 and run through DN32 and larger.