What is the primary purpose of an isolation valve?

The primary purpose of an isolation valve is to seal off a section of plumbing. This type of valve is crucial for maintenance and repair work because it allows operators to stop the flow of water in specific areas of a system without disrupting service throughout the entire system. By effectively isolating sections of piping, these valves help to contain any potential leaks or issues to a confined area and facilitate safe maintenance activities. This makes handling repairs much safer and more efficient, minimizing the impact on overall water service.

While other functions like throttling water flow or controlling flow direction are important in certain contexts, they do not align with the specific and essential function of isolation valves. Isolation is their defining characteristic, making them vital components in water distribution systems for managing and responding to maintenance needs.