Solenoid Valves

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JohnG

Candiru
MFK Member
Jun 28, 2010
781
4
48
Moses Lake, WA
I have seen some people mention they are using solenoid valves on there DIY projects. I am looking for some solenoid valves that will fit either 1 1/4" or 1 1/2" PVC. Was wondering if the ones homedepot sells for sprinklers are safe for fish, or if not where are people getting them? Only ones i can find online in that size are upwards of $200.
 
The ones for sprinkler systems are usually for 3/4" line. Finding one that is 1 1/2" would probably be pretty pricey.
 
Thanks, I could just split a 1 1/2" into 2 3/4" pipes easy enough.

Just remember with cross sectional math, two 3/4" does not equal 1 1/2". You would realistically need three to match the 1 1/2".
 
Four. When you double the radius or diameter, you are multiplying it by 2. That 2 gets squared in the area formula because it is part of the radius/diameter. The final result is that by doubling the diameter (or radius), you increase the area by four.
 
I have seen some people mention they are using solenoid valves on there DIY projects.

What kind of project are you doing? I'm kind of at a loss because I can't think of any freshwater DIY projects that would need solenoid valves that big.

One other thing, sprinkler valves need quite a bit of pressure in the plumbing to close them. Go on eBay and search for a dealer named valves4projects. They have valves of good quality that are very cheap.
 
Most irrigation solenoid operated valves only work under pressure. The solenoid doesn't usually operate the valve opening and closing. Usually it opens a smaller valve that bleeds of pressure from the high pressure side to move the actual flow valve. This is why they are always directional. Just something to keep in mind while you are designing.
 
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