Solenoid Valve 220V AC 0.5 inch (1/2") - Electric Water Flow Control Switch (Normally Closed)

Specifications

• Operating Voltage: 220V - 240V AC (50/60Hz)

• Valve Type: Normally Closed (NC) - Stays closed when power is OFF.

• Flow Control: On/Off (Digital)

• Port Size: 1/2 inch (0.5") External Thread

• Working Pressure: 0.02 Mpa – 0.8 Mpa (Note: Requires pressure to open; not suitable for zero-pressure gravity feed).

• Fluid Medium: Water / Low-viscosity fluids

• Max Fluid Temperature: 60°C

• Filter: Built-in stainless steel mesh filter on inlet.

• Material: Durable Plastic & Metal Solenoid Housing

Key Applications & Projects

• Smart Home Irrigation: Connect to a Wi-Fi smart plug or relay to water your garden on a schedule.

• Automatic Tank Filling: Pair with a float switch to automatically refill overhead tanks without manual intervention.

• Industrial Cooling: Control water flow to cooling jackets or CNC machines directly from the mains panel.

• RO Water Purifiers: Replacement inlet valve for standard domestic RO systems.

Unlock New Capabilities (Project Evolution)

• Prerequisite: If you are used to manual ball valves, you know the pain of forgetting to turn the tap off.

• The Upgrade: This valve allows you to build "Set and Forget" systems. Combined with an ESP32 and Relay, you can build a weather-aware watering system that only opens the valve when it hasn't rained.

• Effort Level: Intermediate. Requires working with 220V AC Mains. Strict safety protocols apply.

Virtual Technician: Wiring & Safety Guide ⚠️

• DANGER - HIGH VOLTAGE: This device operates on 220V AC. Risk of Electrocution. Ensure all wiring is insulated and placed inside a waterproof junction box. Never touch terminals while powered.

• Microcontroller Logic: You cannot connect this directly to Arduino/ESP32. You MUST use a 5V/12V Relay Module or a Solid State Relay (SSR) to switch the 220V power.

• Directionality: The valve is unidirectional. Look for the Arrow (➜) embossed on the bottom of the plastic body. This indicates the direction of water flow. Installing it backward will cause leakage.

Accessories

• Included: 1 x Solenoid Valve 220V AC 0.5 inch (1/2")

• Required (Sold Separately):

  • 1-Channel Relay Module (5V or 12V)

  • 1/2" Female Threaded Pipe Connectors

  • Teflon Tape (for leak-proof sealing)

  • Waterproof Junction Box

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I control the flow rate (make it half open)?

   • No, this is a digital valve. It is either fully Open (ON) or fully Closed (OFF).

2. Will this work with gravity feed (bucket 1ft high)?

   • Likely not. This is a pilot-operated valve that relies on incoming water pressure (min 0.02 Mpa) to assist in opening the diaphragm.

3. Does it get hot during operation?

   • Yes, the solenoid coil will get warm to the touch if left ON for long periods. This is normal.

4. Can I use this for hot water?

   • It is rated for up to ~60°C. Boiling water will damage the internal rubber diaphragm.

5. Is it waterproof?

   • The valve body handles water, but the electrical terminals are NOT waterproof. You must shield the connections from splashes and rain.

6. Does it consume power when closed?

   • No. Since it is Normally Closed (NC), it consumes zero power in its default state. It only consumes power when you energize it to open.

7. Can I use this for gas or air?

   • It is designed for liquids (water). While it may work with air, it is not sealed for gas safety standards.

8. What happens if the power goes out?

   • The valve will automatically close (fail-safe), stopping the water flow.

9. Can I use it with a Raspberry Pi?

   • Yes, but you need a Relay Module to act as the switch between the Pi (3.3V) and the Valve (220V).

10. What is the thread type?

    • Standard G1/2" external plumbing thread. Fits standard bathroom/garden pipe fittings.

11. How long can I keep it ON?

    • It is designed for intermittent use (e.g., 1-2 hours). Keeping it ON 24/7 may shorten the coil life.

12. Why is water leaking even when closed?

    • Check if you installed it backward (arrow direction). Also, ensure debris isn't stuck in the diaphragm.

13. Do I need a check valve?

    • The valve itself acts as a check valve when closed, preventing backflow, but strictly only when unpowered.

14. Can I use this for drinking water?

    • It is a general-purpose industrial plastic. For certified potable water, look for food-grade specific valves.

    • Probots™ Source-Trace: We source these for general automation; they are not medical/food grade certified.

15. What is the coil power consumption?

    • Approx 5W to 8W.

16. Is there a DC version of this?

    • Yes, we also stock 12V DC versions if you prefer low-voltage safety.

17. Can I submerge this valve?

    • Absolutely not. The electrical coil is exposed.

18. Why does it make a "click" sound?

    • That is the sound of the metal armature engaging. It confirms the solenoid is working.

19. Does it need a driver circuit?

    • No, just a switch (Relay) to connect/disconnect the 220V live wire.

20. Is the filter removable?

    • Yes, the metal mesh on the inlet can be pulled out for cleaning if it gets clogged.