The 8 Best Electric Ball Valves
This wiki has been updated 21 times since it was first published in January of 2019. When you need a electric ball valve for a project, you want it to be safe and dependable, and, hopefully, offer a headache-free installation. To help you with the decision-making process, we've researched a number of motorized choices to provide information on uses, compatibility and ease of operation, so you can spend more time hooking things up, and less time looking up specifications. When users buy our independently chosen editorial selections, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. U.S. Solid MSV00003
2. Bacoeng P0308
3. Misol 1/2"
Editor's Notes
October 14, 2019:
It’s important to note that most options on this page are made available in multiple sizes by their manufacturers. So, if you see an option that looks just right for you, but in the wrong size, don’t be afraid to dig a little deeper, as there’s a good chance that the product you need is in fact available. With this in mind, we removed a couple redundant options during this update (the same product that was listed more than once – but in different sizes), in order to help declutter things for our readers.
A few things to keep an eye out for in this category:
Size: As was just mentioned, most of these devices are available in more than one size, so make sure you start by looking for choices that match the size of piping you’re looking to hook up to. In addition to this, make sure that the switches port size doesn’t restrict flow any more than it’s supposed to. Full-port valves should open up to be the same size as the water-/gas-line you’re hooking up to.
Compatibility: If you’re looking to control the flow of gas, make sure your device is rated for that. If you’re looking to control potable water, make sure your device is rated for that. If you’re looking to control any material that’s warmer than ambient temperature, make sure your device is rated for that.
Enclosure Rating: While full protection against dust and debris seems to come standard in this category, there is some discrepancy between models and just how water resistant they are. Depending on the environment where you’re planning on installing these, you might want to pay attention to each unit's IP waterproof rating.
Hint: The higher the second digit in the number is, the more water resistance the unit offers
May 29, 2019:
With electric ball valves the basics are simple, a user will need an actuator to click over and either open or close a circuit for the installed application. Where variables can begin to cause confusion is at the build material (typically brass or stainless steel), the number of fittings needed along with the need for a full port (for unrestricted flow) or standard/reduced port (for reduced flow). Another factor that can cause frustration is wiring configuration (2-, 3-, or 5-wire, one position, connection of an indicator/switch, etc.) and input power (AC or DC, fixed or wide-ranged). Doing the research on the front end limits the frustration of needing to stop in the middle of setup in order to go back to a hardware store or initiate an online return.
4. HSH-Flo CR5-02
5. Bokywox NPT CR2-01
6. Misol CRO1
7. HSH-Flo 3/4"
8. Akent 3/4"
After deciding that the pen was mightier than the pliers, Canadian electrical contractor William Rhoda abandoned his career and headed back to college, where he majored in marketing and advertising and won a scholarship along the way to earning a diploma in creative communications. His past career landed him a depth of knowledge in tools and hardware, while his current career schooled him in audio, video and camera equipment. During his leisure time, he’s learned lots about outdoor gear, and years of tiresome backyard maintenance have taught him all about pools and hot tubs. His recreational pursuits include rest, relaxation and revolutionary action, and his roommate’s a hairless cat.