Frequently Asked Questions
Selecting the right supply box depends on the fixture or appliance, available installation space, access requirements, and applicable plumbing codes.
What are the benefits of using Oatey stop valves?
Stop valves allow water to be shut off at individual fixtures, making repairs, appliance replacement, and emergency maintenance easier while helping reduce the risk of water damage.
What are ice maker outlet boxes?
Ice maker outlet boxes are recessed plumbing boxes that terminate the water supply line for refrigerators with ice makers. They provide a code-compliant, accessible connection point that helps reduce the risk of leaks behind appliances.
What are washing machine outlet boxes?
Washing machine outlet boxes are recessed plumbing boxes that serve as the termination point for hot and cold water supply lines and the drain connection for a washing machine.
Are Oatey ice maker valves lead free?
Yes. All Oatey ice maker valves are lead free and meet NSF 61, section 9 requirements.
Are there height restrictions when installing a washing machine outlet box?
Washing machine outlet boxes are commonly installed with the inside bottom of the box positioned between 34” and 48” above the finished floor, depending on appliance requirements and local plumbing codes.
Are Oatey washing machine valves lead free?
No. Washing machine valves are not considered a source from which potable (drinking) water is gathered, and are not required to meet lead free requirements.
Why do some valves have hammer arrestors?
Hammer arrestors are designed to help with water hammer (banging noises) in the water lines when a washer or ice maker are in use. When the appliance’s quick closing valve shuts off, it will exposes any loose piping in the water supply system and make banging sounds. The hammer arrestor helps absorb the shock and minimize or eliminate the banging sound. Oatey manufactures a full line of pipe supports which can assist in securing the loose pipes.
Does Oatey offer a washing machine or ice maker valve that can easily attach to different pipe materials without adding additional adaptors?
Oatey is pleased to announce that we do offer such a valve for washing machine and ice maker connections; it is called the “Push Connect Valve”. These valves come as part of our Outlet Box collection. They are designed to easily accept ½” Copper, CPVC and PEX pipes, by simply pushing the ½” pipe into the Push Connect Valve Fitting. If for any reason the pipe needs to be removed after installation, no problem. Simply use the quick release tool to remove that section of pipe, and insert the new piece of pipe. No need for solder, pipe joint compounds or thread sealant/Tapes; just cut, de-burr and chamfer (bevel) pipe end before pushing and connecting the pipe.
Does Oatey offer fire rated boxes?
Yes. Oatey offers a #38494 WMOB and #38495 IMOB that have a Warnock Hersey Certification for 1 and 2 hour fire rated walls.