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Saddle Valves

Saddle valves are used to supply water to appliances where a low volume, low pressure source of water is required. This would typically be an ice-maker in a freezer, a hot water dispenser, or a humidifier.

A Saddle valve can be mounted without special tools anywhere on a cold water line, usually close to where it will be used. It is sold in pieces which bolt together to form a clamping device that straddles a water line, much like a saddle on a horse, thus the name.

Saddle valves are self-tapping devices. Once mounted on a line, with the included rubber seal in place, all that is required is to turn the valve clockwise until it pierces the water line. When the valve handle can no longer be turned, it is done. Turning the handle counter-clockwise opens the valve. These valves can be installed without shutting off the main water supply.

Saddle valves are designed to be used on ½" to 1" copper tubing. If a tap is to be made to a steel pipe, a 5 mm hole must be drilled first. The outlet will fit ¼" OD compression tubing.

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