Saddle valve on hot water line
#1
01-05-17, 05:15 AM
Saddle valve on hot water line
I want to install a an ice maker type saddle valve on hot water line in crawlspace to be use just to assist is draining down the system seasonally (lines don't slope in one direction) . Will the rubber seal stand up to the heat (approx 130-150f). I know it is not the best thing to do (vs sweating in teed tee and valve) but do I stand a reasonable chance of success ? - Thanks
#2
01-05-17, 05:17 AM
Group Moderator
If you don't want to sweat on the proper fitting I would go for a Shark/Gator Bite fitting. They push into place with no sweating required and are designed to work on hot water lines.
#3
01-05-17, 08:13 AM
Member
Agree with PD. I realize saddle valves are widely used, but most of them are really marginal quality and prone to leak over time. Not only that, the flow rate through them when not under pressure (as in your example of using to drain a line) is so low as to be almost worthless. You'd be far better off installing a sharkbite Tee and a full size valve that you could even connect a hose to for the draining process. It will cost a little more but you will be much happier with the results.
