Best Float Valve in 2023: Top 10 Models Revealed

A float valve is not a mechanism that everybody knows a lot about. We are pretty sure a lot of you have never even heard of these awesome tools. In short, it is a device that makes sure a tank doesn’t overflow. Don’t worry, we’ll explain in more detail soon enough.

If mechanical science isn’t your strong suit, we figure it will be really hard to sort out the best float valve for your application.

That is why we are here to help with a list of the top products commercially available today.

We’ve compiled a list of the most reliable float valves that you can find.

You don’t have to spend hours scouring the next for this simple component. Before we tell you about what we found, let’s talk about what a float valve even is.

Now, let’s have a look at the Float Valve that I’m going to discuss in the article below:

What Is A Float Control Valve And What Are The Advantages Of Using It?

Feel free to skip this part if you know what this nifty little device does. It’s okay if you don’t because we have a short guide on everything you need to know about these components. We’ve broken it down into three questions to make things easier for you.

1. What Does It Do?

A float control valve, as the name suggests, is a tool that controls the flow and level of liquid in a closed enclosure such as a tank.

2. Where Is It Used?

The tank float valve is mostly used for commercial use but you will find it in many common household applications too. For starters, it is an integral part of domestic overhead tanks, ensuring that the water system in your home doesn’t spiral out of control.

Secondly, it is also used in a flush tank. A very small version of it makes sure that your flush doesn’t start leaking.

Thirdly, it’s used in stock tanks to water livestock and plants. Similarly, it is used in a dog waterer. Keep your canine friend from overhydrating themselves with this tool.

Lastly, you can use it for pools as it gets rid of excess water. You won’t need it for the one with a proper drainage system.

3. Why Should I Use It?

Without float valves for water tanks, you’ll be in hot water. Pun intended. The float control valve is crucial for some water storage units as it is the sole mechanism that stops it from overflowing without the need to monitor it.

For example, if you didn’t have this device in an overhead tank, you’d find a tsunami wave approaching you every few weeks unless you manually regularly offload your tank. If you don’t have this mechanism, we strongly suggest getting it as soon as possible.

4. How Does It Work?

In essence, a water level float valve is a valve that opens allowing excess liquid to find its way out. It is completely a mechanical system to avoid any electrical hazards. There are two types of float control valves but we’ll discuss them in more detail soon.

Top 10 Best Float Valve On The Market Right Now

1. Rubbermaid Commercial Products Stock Tank Float Valve

We start the list with a bang. This is a very good product if you are looking for a water trough float valve for watering your plants or feeding your pets.

For starters, the size is pretty standard. With dimensions of 2.698×2.24×1.688 inches, you won’t have a hard time fitting this valve into your stock tank. It is really small, so make sure that you double-check the dimensions with your stock tank.

While the name may suggest otherwise, this float valve is not made of rubber. It is made of plastic. Pretty high-quality plastic for that matter. This makes it a fairly durable product that isn’t going to break any time soon.

The material is also completely waterproof and corrosion-resistant. We mean plastic doesn’t corrode. This means you won’t have to worry about your water becoming poisoned from your float valve.

The only downside is the fact that- as it is made of plastic, it may develop some cracks over the years. Nonetheless, you will get a few years of usage from it before that happens.

Highlighted Features:

• Perfect float valve for feeding pets and watering plants.
• Dimensions of 2.698×2.24×1.688 inches.
• Durable plastic body.
• Waterproof and corrosion-resistant.

2. Kerick Valve MA052 PVC Mini Float Valve

Kerick Valve is one of the biggest brands in the business. That said, does this product live up to the high standards of this top-notch brand? The answer is a resounding yes. This is arguably the best float valve for water tanks that employ a rod and float ball system.

The pipe inlet of ½ inch NPT means that you can connect it to your water tank easily. It is one of the most common sizes in the piping world.

The dimensions of 10.4 x 3.3 x 12.7 inches mean that- it is a little bigger than your average valve, but it is going to fit in pretty comfortably for most tanks.

The PVC material is almost perfect for this purpose. Not only is it durable, but it is also corrosion-resistant. Few materials are better suited for a float valve.

The estimated rate of flow on this valve is 1.5 GPM under a pressure of 60 psi. This is a good rate as it means that it can get rid of any excess water quickly.

One inconvenience of this product is that- its setting is time-consuming. The buoyancy on this valve is hard to get right because of its shape. You need to position it right.

Highlighted Features:

• Great rod and float ball valve.
• Dimensions of 10.4 x 3.3 x 12.7.
• Corrosion-resistant and durable PVC body.
• Good rate of flow of 1.5 GPM at 60 psi.

3. MUDUOBAN 2 Pack Float Valve

Are you looking for a great deal? This is the budget option on this list as you are getting two top-notch float valves for the price of one. You read that right. If that isn’t a bargain, we don’t know what is.

Muduoban may not be a household name in the industry, but this product surely does not show that. Despite the low price, it is a good shout for the best water tank float valve.

In terms of size, this is a moderately sized valved. Dimensions of 9.4 x 6.5 x 2 inches mean that- it is going to be a comfortable fit for most tanks.

The material is 304 stainless steel. We know a lot of you are freaking out over the fact that this is metal. Fret not, this is nothing like other metals which can rust underwater.

It is rust-proof and has no deformations when exposed to water. It is thoroughly cleaned and very sanitary. As this is a metal, there is no reason to worry about it breaking.

While we’re on the topic of durability, there is one thing to look out for. This product is not 100% safe against the elements. Clean it thoroughly every winter and make sure that it doesn’t freeze up.

Highlighted Features:

• Budget option (two for the price of one).
• Dimensions of 9.4 x 6.5 x 2 inches.
• Rust-free and clean 304 stainless steel.
• Great durability.

4. Hudson Valve V Hudson Tank Valve

While installing valves isn’t rocket science, this product stands out for just how easy it is to install. It doesn’t matter how big or small your tank is, it fits seamlessly into any water container.

What makes this valve so easy to install? Firstly, there are no moving parts. It is a very simple mechanism that can carry loads of liquid with little to no effort. Well, a valve doesn’t ever put in the effort, but you get what we mean.

The size adds to its compatibility as its dimensions of 5 x 3.75 x 5 inches make it a good fit for most traditional tanks.

The Nylon resin material is waterproof and rust-resistant. So again, you don’t have to worry about the valve damaging your water supply or vice versa. This water storage tank float valve is the closest thing you have to plug and play.

There is a price to pay for its simplicity, however, and that comes in the form of its durability. This isn’t the sturdiest valve on the planet. We’re not saying it will break easily but it isn’t as strong as some of the other products on this list. It will still last a while though.

Highlighted Features:

• Easiest to install.
• Dimensions of 5 x 3.75 x 5 inches.
• Waterproof and rust-resistant nylon resin.

5. Meekoo Float Ball Valve

An automatic float valve for water tank may be a redundant term. As these mechanisms are automatic by nature, the process does not get any more self-sufficient than this.

This product needs very little maintenance. You just install it and the valve does the rest. If automation is your top priority, this is the valve to go for.

The blend of materials on this product makes the zero-maintenance system possible. The PVC body is something we’ve sung praises for already. But in case you’ve forgotten, here’s a quick rundown- it is reliable.

The abs plastic arms and the stainless-steel finish ensure that you get a little boost in terms of durability. The coating is rust and corrosion-proof. If it wasn’t, it wouldn’t exactly be easy to maintain.

The size of this float valve is not going to cause you any problems as well with a universally available ½ NPT inlet pipe. Dimensions of 7×1.57×3.35 inches are also common.

It is important to note that this too does not stand out in terms of durability. It isn’t a weak product but it isn’t particularly strong either. The durability is so-so.

Highlighted Features:

• Easiest to maintain.
• Dimensions of 7×1.57×3.35 inches.
• Blend of PVC, ABS, and stainless steel.
• Rust-free and corrosion-proof.

6. Kerick Valve MA252 PVC Mini Float

Kerick is the only brand on this list to feature two products. This is a testament to just how good of a brand it is. That’s what happens when you nail the design of the water float ball.

This is virtually identical to the previous entry from Kerick, but it features one key difference. We’ll get to that later, let’s start with a quick recap.

The rate of flow is just as effective as the other entry. A rate of 1.5 GPM under a pressure of 60 psi is going to make sure of that. If your tank ever has some access water influx, you can get rid of the water quickly.

The durability is also reliable because it features the tried and tested PVC. As you already know, we are massive fans of this material. The sturdiness coupled with the corrosion resistance makes it a solid option.

The difference? This is considerably a smaller valve. The dimensions of 4 x 7.5 x 1.5 inches and ¼ inch pipe inlet make this the pocket variant of its cousin. If you are looking for a tiny valve, this is the one for you.

On the flip side, it won’t do a great job with a large tank. It will still get the job done. It just won’t be very efficient.

Highlighted Features:

• Fantastic tiny ball valve.
• Dimensions of 4 x 7.5 x 1.5 inches.
• Corrosion-resistant and durable PVC body.
• Good rate of flow of 1.5 GPM at 60 psi.

7. Blulu Float Ball Valve

While the name of the brand doesn’t roll off the tongue, rest assured that this is an excellent water storage tank float valve. Much like MUDUOBAN’s product, this too will pack a bang for your buck. It’s a 3-in-1 deal.

However, this 3-in-1 is less about economics and more about functionality. The three different parts mean that you don’t need to buy a new one if you have more than one tank, or even go through the trouble of removing it and installing it again for a new tank. That makes this the perfect multitasker.

Speaking of multitasking, this float valve also has a great pretty standard pipe inlet size of ½-inch NPT. This means- it will be compatible with most tanks. The dimensions of 7.87 x 4.72 x 1.57 inches also mean that it won’t be taking up much room.

The durability of this valve is also not-worthy. The components are solid. For example- the adjustable arm is made of high-quality ABS plastic so that it doesn’t break down. The body itself is made of the ever-reliable stainless steel which is both corrosion and rust-resistant.

The rate of flow of this valve stops it from being the most versatile device on this list. Unfortunately, it might be too slow for a large tank. However, you could try using multiple valves for one tank to fix this issue.

Highlighted Features:

• Great multitasker.
• Dimensions of 7.87 x 4.72 x 1.57 inches.
• Corrosion-resistant, rustproof strong stainless-steel body and sturdy ABS arm.

8. MMonDod Mini Float Ball Valve

If you thought the last company’s name was hard to digest, get a load of this one. We struggled quite a bit to pronounce the name of this company. Fortunately, the product itself is much less convoluted.

This is arguably the best stock tank float valve when it comes to ponds and aquariums. What makes this product so well-equipped for this purpose? The size and connectivity of this valve make it a perfect fit for most home water ecosystems.

The ½-inch NPT inlet which has been featured in so many of the products on this list is tailor-made to slide right into these settings. The dimensions of 11 x 4 x 1 inch may seem a little big but that’s including the adjustable arm.

The adjustable arm makes installation pretty easy as you can have a good amount of control over where the valve goes. In other words, you can keep it out of the path of your aquatic life. Additionally, the rate of flow is going to make sure your pond never overflows.

The material ABS plastic is used for the entire device, meaning that it is completely safe against corrosion and rust. It is important to note that the material for this particular valve feels a little cheap, but rest assured that it going to keep your water storage facilities from overflowing for a good while.

Highlighted Features:

• Ideal float valve for pools and aquariums.
• Dimensions of 11 x 4 x 1 inches.
• Corrosion-free and rustproof ABS body.

9. M.Z.A Water Float Valve

The penultimate item on our list is no slouch. This ball float valve for the water tank is the most versatile product on this list. Taking the crown from the great multitasker in Blublu’s product.

The reason is it excels where Blublu’s product falls slightly short- the rate of flow on this product is excellent. You can rest assured that it will clear out any excess inflow, no matter how large your tank is.

Other than the size of your size, the ¾-inch thread inlet and the dimensions of ‎8.31 x 6.65 x 3.66 inches mean that it will comfortably be accommodated by any water system you wish to use it in.

By any, we do mean any. This valve can be used in water troughs, water pumps, humidifiers, fountains, aquariums, ponds, and even animal waterers. There are no tanks that it won’t work for.

If we were being nitpicky, we’d say the durability could use some work. The ABS and Polythene body may be resistant to corrosion and rust, but it doesn’t offer the same rigidity as metal. That said, it will still serve you for a long time without any hiccups.

Highlighted Features:

• Most versatile float valves.
• Dimensions of ‎8.31 x 6.65 x 3.66 inches.
• Corrosion-free and rustproof ABS and Polyethene body.

10. Watts 1000-01 Float Valve

Last but not least, we have the heavy-hitter of this list. We mean it in the most literal sense- this is the go-to heavy-duty float valve for the water tanks. This product is built like a tank and no, we’re not still talking about water tanks!

Much like a military tank, this product has a metal body. Not just any metal, it has a naturally rust-proof bronze body. Typically, bronze is equally as strong as the stainless-steel bodies we’ve seen so far, but Watt’s engineering prowess shows as it is a tier above the rest in terms of longevity.

Furthermore, it has an incredibly high tolerance to pressure. It can withstand a maximum pressure of 165 psi. That is much more pressure than you will ever experience in a standard situation, both for commercial and professional usage.

The rate of flow follows the trend, as it too is heavy-duty with an astonishing 100 GPM at 50 psi. You can rely on this valve to ensure that even large quantities of inflow don’t make their way into your tank if there is a risk of overflowing. The size of 3x4x1 inches is also fairly compatible.

The sacrifice that had to be made to facilitate this amazing feature set is the high price point. It is going to cost a bit, but rest assured you are making a wise investment.

Highlighted Features:

• Heavy-duty float valve.
• Dimensions of 3x4x1 inches.
• Rustproof and super durable bronze body.
• Super high rate of flow of 100 GPM at 50 psi.

What Features To Look At Before Buying The Float Valve

Now that you know what the most effective products in the market are, you have to choose the best float valve for yourself. Easy, right? Unfortunately, the answer is no.

This is a long and boring process that needs to consider a lot of factors. Don’t worry though, we are with you every step of the way with a comprehensive buying guide.

1. Purpose

The first criterion is pretty obvious. The type of tank you are dealing with plays a major role in selecting a water storage tank float valve. You may be dealing with water troughs, pumps, fountains, humidifiers, ponds, aquariums, or animal waterers. Not all valves work for all these functions.

If you want a valve that is truly a jack of all trades, M.Z. A’s product is the right pick for you.

2. Size

While valves may serve the same primary role, they come in all different shapes and sizes. The shape serves little to no practical value, but the size is a different story.

We have valves ranging from dimensions of 2.698×2.24×1.688 to 10.4 x 3.3 x 12.7 inches and these are just the first two products. There are a lot more variations in terms of dimensions.

You need to find a valve that is small enough to fit your tank. This is going to be easy as no valve on this list is all that big. The second part is tricky. You need to make sure that it isn’t too big, or it will let too much water out at once, or too small, or it won’t let enough out.

Also, it is important to note that dimensions aren’t the only factor at play here. For example- although Rubbermaid has the smallest unit, Kerick valve ma252 is better suited for small tanks.

3. Durability

You don’t need a float valve for a water storage tank that can withstand explosions, but you do need one that will at least last you for a few months, if not years. This should not be a purchase you make every other Sunday.

Your product needs to be able to stand the test of time and other factors such as the weather and intense water pressure in some cases.

The durability depends on two factors: the build quality and the material. Plastics are not naturally very sturdy but decent build quality can change that. For example, both Rubbermaid and Kerick only use plastic and yet their products do not fall back in terms of durability.

Stainless steel is an excellent candidate for reliable durability. However, if you are looking for the durability king- there is no match to Watts’ product which is made of the finest quality bronze. It may survive an explosion.

4. Corrosion Resistance

Another feature that material has a big hand in determining is the resistance to corrosion and rust. However, we separated this point from durability as rust and corrosion don’t necessarily render your product useless. They can be responsible for something much more dangerous.

It may poison your water supply, especially corrosion from copper and lead. Rust doesn’t poison you, but it does change the color and the taste of the water. All the products on our list are resistant to both these phenomena.

5. Estimated Rate Of Flow

Pinpointing the exact rate of flow provided by an automatic water float valve is impossible because it depends on a lot of factors. Even when estimating the rate of flow, we need to account for pressure.

This estimated rate can sway your decision, as faster rates are a lot more reliable. The tricky thing is most companies don’t calculate or share this rate with you.

However, if you can get a hand on this value, a rate of 1.5 GPM at 60 psi is more than good enough for most domestic purposes. Watts’ product is a clear standout in this category, as it has a rate of 100 GPM at 50 psi. We won’t lie, that is a bit of an overkill.

6. Operating Temperature Of Water

Lastly, the operating temperature of your water may come into play when choosing a float valve as well. For example, you can’t use all control valves for a boiler water tank, as the incredibly high temperature may melt them.

We suggest only opting for metal control valves for such a purpose or in any case where extreme temperatures are involved. Metal is just better equipped to handle them than plastics or other materials.

Types Of Float Valves: Explained

There are primarily two types of float valves based on their working principle- direct and pilot operated. There is no special advantage or disadvantage offered by either working principle. They are both equally efficient, and the difference depends on the quality of the material and components.

1. Direct Float Control Valve

The direct float control valve is a valve that is opened by the movement of an arm. This is a very simple mechanism where the force of excess water pushes an arm which then activates the valve.

2. Pilot-Operated Float Control Valve

A pilot-operated float control valve is a much more complicated device with a lot of moving components. When the water level rises, a water float ball rises, and this moves some control piping that opens up isolation valves in the actual control valve, which is located below the ball.

This complex mechanism causes the isolation valves to open and close as the water level in a tank changes.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are There Any Alternatives To Using A Float Valve?

Unfortunately, there is no other tool to ensure that your water storage facility does not overflow. The only other option you have is to manually keep an eye on it 24/7, which is not very practical.

2. What Size Should I Be Going For?

This depends on the size of your tank. Smaller tanks don’t need large float valves. In some cases, they can’t even fit larger float valves. Do not use a small one for a large tank as it won’t be able to push out water fast enough.

3. How To Install A Float Valve?

For more complicated applications such as an overhead water tank or boiler, we suggest going to a professional as these jobs carry a few risks. However, for simpler ones such as aquariums and stock tanks, it’s as simple as drilling a hole and putting your valve’s pipe inlet into that hole & screwing it shut.

4. How Long Do Float Valves Generally Last?

There is no clear-cut answer to this. It depends on several factors such as the material used to make the valve, the frequency of use, and weather conditions. In most cases, these components last for a few years comfortably.

Final Words

With that, we have tried to narrow down the best float valve for you. Now, it’s up to you. Each float valve has varying qualities and you need to understand which one suits your needs.

For example, while MUDUOBAN’s product is a great deal, it will not as durable as Watt’s bronze foundation. Alternatively, Meekoo’s easy maintenance will not make up for the versatility you lose if you don’t buy M.Z. A’s a product.

As you can see, each product has its specialties, so you need to know exactly what you are looking for before making a purchase. We wish luck on your hunt for the perfect float valve for your home or business.