What is a common type of valve used in plumbing to control water flow?

A common type of valve used in plumbing to control water flow includes both ball valves and gate valves.

Ball valves are favored for their ability to provide a tight seal and are designed for quickly shutting off water supply. They have a spherical disc that opens and closes the flow of water, allowing for efficient control. Their design makes them excellent for both on/off control and can be used in high-pressure systems.

Gate valves, on the other hand, are primarily utilized for on/off control, similar to ball valves but are generally not preferred for regulating flow. Instead, they are used to either fully open or close the flow of water. When fully open, they do not restrict the flow. The mechanism involves a gate that lifts or lowers to allow or prevent flow.

Both types offer distinct advantages depending on the application. By recognizing that both ball and gate valves are common in plumbing systems, it becomes clear why the answer reflects the inclusion of both valve types as integral components for controlling water flow. Other options, which may refer to different types of valves such as check valves, are typically used for preventing backflow rather than direct control of flow.