Choosing ACCOR push-fit valves

I’ve always used compression, crimp-on or glue-style valves. Why is push-fit style better?

Compression valves permanently damage the pipe and require the right amount of tightening, which can vary depending on the installer. Over- or under-tightening is the major cause of plumbing water-damage complaints, and this will increase with the new, lead-free requirement for metal valves. 

Crimp-on valves give a home job an industrial look. The plumbers usually stub-out excessively because they are worried that in case of a valve leak, they need enough pipe to cut off and install a new valve. This means the pipe is showing with paint and mud and doesn’t look aesthetically pleasing.

Glue-on CPVC valves are messy and require additional time for solvent-welding and setup.

Can ACCOR push-fit valves replace any old valve I have, even metal ones?

The only valves we can’t replace are the ones threaded on iron pipe. Our R-SERIES valves will fit right over the old brass ferrule on copper or CPVC pipe. This is the only stop valve that can be installed over the old ferrule, saving the cost of expensive in-wall repairs.

I have copper/CPVC plumbing in an older home. Will ACCOR still work for me?

Both the FlowTite 4ALL or PUSHON® PEX, and the FlowTite® R-SERIES® and PUSHON® R-SERIES® valves work on copper and CPVC pipe.

With so many ACCOR valves available, how do I know I have the right one to replace my old one?

We’ve broken down our products per application so you can easily find what you need. From the navigation on the top page, follow the Application drop-down menu option and choose either the new pipe or the replacement option to see a listing of the products based on your need.

I’ve found several brands claiming to do the same thing. Is ACCOR really different?

ACCOR has patented technology and our valves are made in the USA on automated machines with 100 percent air testing and sophisticated sensors that ensure quality.
We differ in three major ways:

1. We use two gripper rings for new housing — all our competitors only use one. The dual-gripper design gives us a higher margin of safety, especially on PEX pipe, compared to any other supply stop or fitting on the market.
   
   
2. Other valves also use an easy-release mechanism for removing their valves, which can be accidentally triggered in some situations. The ACCOR design requires a tools-free, manual twist-off action to remove the supply stop, ensuring no accidental valve failures.
   
   
3. Our pull/press on/off handle features a unique design. We have been able to confidently warrant this positive shut-off for 10 years because our technology works with the water flow, which means no friction or torque is present. Competitive valves have stop-mechanism designs that constantly fight the water pressure, which means friction. And the internal seals and materials required for this type of design tend to break down under friction or compression, making it harder to shut off the valve over time and eventually creating the potential for a leak.

What’s the big deal about the dual gripper rings?

ACCOR started with one internal gripper ring for new construction in 1988. When PEX pipe was introduced into the U.S. market, we found that the OD dimension of the PEX pipe varied compared to copper pipe. We realized that holding onto the minimum .621 OD (or even slightly lower), along with this softer and out-of-round material, created an issue with a single-ring design.

ACCOR then added a second internal gripper ring to get a better long-term grip on PEX. This design margin of safety has paid off by eliminating issues with low-end OD PEX pipe.

The change made ACCOR the leader in push-fit valves in the new homes industry. Other push-fit valves only have a single gripper ring and require an insert fitting.

I’m not sure about plastic. All the valves I’ve seen are metal and seem more durable.

Plastics, technically known as polymers, have replaced metals in many products, including plumbing. Automobiles, appliances, golf clubs, guns and even airplanes now are made from these advanced polymers. That’s because they are noncorrosive and have strong physical properties that can be designed for a longer life.

Plumbing has changed, with plastic pipe taking over the new residential construction market. Brass — which is increasingly imported — has less control on the quality. Water treatment and quality are also a challenge for the industry, as the environment changes from city to city.

I’ve heard about a new law requiring plumbing products to be lead-free. How do I know the ACCOR product I’m buying doesn’t have lead?

ACCOR started in 1988 by making lead-free, heath-safe valves and became a leader in this field. All ACCOR valves are lead-free.

All metal stop valves had been made with up to 8 percent lead, and with the recent change in the laws, all of these products that look like the old brass stop valves now contain alloys in place of the lead. The change to less malleable alloys brings a disadvantage because it increases potential cracking of brass ferrules and metal valve outlets from overtightening.

Alloys that are being used are more brittle than the old, leaded metal while the ACCOR lead-free solution is proven for over 20 years.

Is it really that easy to install? I’m skeptical.

It’s very easy to install. Just clean the pipe, then use the provided gauge and ring to ensure that the valve is pressed all the way on the pipe to engage the gripper rings and internal O-ring. ACCOR’s valves do not require using an insert fitting for PEX pipe.

To see the easy installation, go to accortechnology.com/accor-supply-stop-valves-installation-videos.

What exactly does the warranty cover?

Our 10-year residential warranty includes a prorated labor cost for any defective valve replacement.

What if I have any problems after buying an ACCOR product?

Call our customer service at 800-447-5848 at our plant in Wenatchee, Washington.