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

The commonly used valve to control water flow in plumbing is the ball valve. This valve features a spherical disc, or ball, that has a hole through its center. When the valve handle is turned, the ball rotates, allowing or blocking the flow of water. Ball valves are favored for their ability to provide a tight seal, quick on/off control, and durability, making them ideal for residential and commercial plumbing applications.

While other types of valves serve specific purposes in plumbing, they may not be as widely utilized for general flow control. Gate valves are typically used for isolation rather than regular flow control, check valves are designed to prevent backflow and allow water to flow in only one direction, and butterfly valves are often used in larger pipes and industrial applications.