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The purpose of a flow control valve is to manage water flow in showers and taps. Not only does the device control the movement of water, but it contributes to saving water because it limits the quantity of water exiting the shower head or tap spout.
A flow restrictor and a flow regulator are both flow control valves, but there is a difference in how these devices operate to limit the water passing through
We will explain how a flow restrictor works in showers and taps compared to a flow regulator, how each valve controls water flow and how you can determine the flow rate.
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How does a flow restrictor work?
A flow restrictor is a solid ring (small enough to fit inside a shower or tap pipe) with a fixed aperture. Picture a mini doughnut. Because of its stable structure that does not change in size, the flow restrictor constantly limits the water stream resulting in less water passing through the pipe before exiting. Thus, it also controls the quantity of water used.
What does a flow regulator do?
A flow regulator in taps and showers normalises the water flow. Unlike a flow restrictor, this flow control valve keeps the water flow constant across different pressures. So, no matter the pressure level pushing the water through, the flow regulator always provides a consistent flow rate.
Typically a flow regulator has a plastic exterior with inner indentations and a unique type of rubber washer inside the ring. Sometimes, flow regulators may come with a main cartridge which is just a way of housing the device.
Where are the valves located?
Flow regulators and flow restrictors are typically in the water pipe behind the tap, but in most cases, you could fit a water control valve somewhere in a tap or tap outlet. Flow regulators can also fit into aerators.
Controlling the water flow in showers and taps
Whether you install a flow restrictor or a flow regulator in showers and taps, both valves will control the water flow. The difference between the two is in the functionality of how they alter water flow and the effects of how high or low pressure will impact the flow rate.
The flow restrictor limits the volume of water with its stable and fixed structure, whereas the flow regulator normalises the water flow with its contracting and expanding rubber washer.
To determine the flow rate with a flow restrictor, you must know the pressure you are getting in the pipes. With a flow regulator, it does not matter whether the pressure is high or low because it still allows a consistent stream of water to pass through as the rubber washer adjusts.
Do you know which flow control valve is best for your showers and taps? We encourage you to reach out to our commercial washroom specialists, who will be happy to explain the advantages and disadvantages of both valves so that you can make an informed decision.
