Pressing a ball valve straight onto copper saves two joints and a pair of adaptors compared with fitting a threaded valve. The catch is choosing the right one: PSA's lead-free press ball valve range has butterfly, lever, extended lever and union versions, in CU x CU, CU x FI and CU x MI. Here's how to pick.
First choice: the ends
- CU x CU (press both ends): an inline isolation valve on a copper run. No threads, no sealant.
- CU x FI (press x female thread): copper in, threaded equipment or a male fitting out — hot water units, filters, pumps.
- CU x MI (press x male thread): copper in, screwing into a female port.
Second choice: the handle and body
Butterfly handle — compact spaces
The short butterfly (T) handle takes less room to turn, which suits valves in cupboards, behind access panels or close to walls. The Austworld butterfly CU x CU (WBWP15LF–25LF) is rated to 2500 kPa and runs $14.95 (15mm), $20.85 (20mm), $29.65 (25mm). The PST full-bore butterfly CU x FI (PFBV) is the same price ladder.
Lever handle — frequent operation
A lever gives more leverage and an obvious open/closed position (inline = open, across = closed). Good for main isolation where it'll be operated by owners or tenants. Options include the Elson LF73660 (DN15 x Rp1/2 FI, $26.76) and LF73662 (DN20 x Rp3/4 FI, $39.10), the Austworld DN25 CU x MI lever ($41.75), the DN40 CU x CU lever (WP40LF, $79.00), and the budget 15mm CU x FI lever (APCF15, $11.79).
Extended lever — lagged pipe
On insulated hot water, heating or chilled lines, a standard lever can sit inside the lagging. The extended stem lifts the handle clear so the insulation can run continuously around the valve body. The Austworld extended lever CU x FI runs DN15 ($28.55) through DN32 ($113.25) and up.
Union — equipment you'll need to remove
A union lets you undo the connection without cutting pipe. Put one on each side of a pump, filter housing or anything that will be serviced or swapped. The Austworld union lever valve runs $30.75 (DN15) to $124.25 (DN32); the extended union combines both features for lagged plant pipework.
Quick picker
| Situation | Pick |
|---|---|
| Inline isolation in a tight cupboard | Butterfly CU x CU |
| Hot water unit or filter inlet | Butterfly or lever CU x FI |
| Main isolation operated by occupants | Lever |
| Insulated hot water or heating line | Extended lever |
| Either side of a pump or filter | Union (extended union if lagged) |
| Recycled water | Lilac range — see our recycled water guide |
Water only
These are WaterMarked water valves. Gas isolation needs a gas-approved valve — see why water and gas press fittings aren't interchangeable. Most PSA press ball valves press with the same jaws as your copper press fittings, but confirm the profile on each valve.
Frequently Asked Questions
What pressure are press fit ball valves rated to?
The Austworld WaterMarked butterfly press ball valves at PSA are rated to a maximum of 2500 kPa. Check the listing for each specific valve.
When should I use an extended lever ball valve?
On insulated (lagged) pipework, where a standard handle would sit inside the insulation. The extended stem lets the lagging run continuously around the valve body.
Why use a union press ball valve?
A union lets you disconnect equipment such as a pump or filter without cutting the pipe, which makes servicing and replacement much faster.
Are press ball valves lead free?
The Austworld and Elson press ball valves in this range are lead-free brass and WaterMarked for potable water.