Watts LFQC8945S-M1 1/4" Lead-Free Ball Valve, Brass, Push-to-Connect (CTS)

The Watts LFQC8945S-M1 is a 1/4" lead-free AquaLock push-to-connect quarter-turn straight supply stop with a 1/2" Push-to-Connect (CTS) inlet and a 1/4" OD Compression outlet. It features a brass body and a epdm seat. Rated to 125 psi and up to 160°F. This model is certified lead-free for potable-water installations.

This 1/2 inch CTS x 1/4 inch OD compression AquaLock™ straight supply stop valve works with copper, CPVC, PEX, and CTS rated pipe. It is easy to install, no tools or tube inserts are required. The fitting can be used for hot and cold water applications. The unique O-ring guide feature provides a zero-leak connection. Unlike barb fittings, this fitting joins the tubing on the outside, increasing the flow capacity. After a connection has been made even under maximum pressure, the tubing is able to swivel, making the fitting ideal for vibrating and dynamic applications. It is made of lead free chrome plated brass and has a quarter turn handle for shut off. This product meets the reduced Q test statistic criteria of 0.5 ppb for lead per Section 9.5.1.1 of NSF/ANSI/CAN 61.

Features

• Straight pattern
• May be used on copper, CPVC, and PEX
• Meets the reduced Q test statistic criteria of 0.5 ppb for lead per Section 9.5.1.1 of NSF/ANSI/CAN 62
• May be removed and reused
• Quarter turn on/off ball valve design

Common Questions

Will this work on copper, CPVC and PEX?

Yes — all three. This is a Watts AquaLock push-to-connect (CTS) fitting, and a single CTS-sized connection accepts copper, CPVC, PEX or any CTS-rated tubing. No tools, no tube inserts, and no soldering: push the tubing in and the integral collet and O-ring seal it. Some listings tag these valves "PEX" — that is a supplier shorthand and understates them; PEX is one of several tubing types this connection accepts, not a restriction. The joint can be rotated under pressure after assembly, and released and reused with the collet.

Is this a quarter-turn or a multi-turn stop?

Quarter-turn. The handle moves 90° from full open to full closed against a ball, so there is no stem packing to seize or weep — the usual failure of an old multi-turn stop that has not been operated in years.

What outlet does this have?

1/4" OD compression — the standard North American supply-line outlet, so an off-the-shelf braided supply connector threads straight on. 1/4 in OD compression is the usual icemaker and humidifier size. The nut and ferrule make up onto the outlet; no soldering and no tube insert.

Can I use this on the hot side?

Yes — the AquaLock line is rated for hot and cold potable water, including behind-the-wall applications: 100 psi at 180°F, or 250 psi at 75°F. One caution from Watts: the polysulfone body must not contact pipe dope, solder flux, plastic-pipe primer/cement, or other solvents and caustics. Use PTFE tape on threaded joints.

Specifications

• Type: Ball
• Size: 1/4"
• Inlet Size: 1/2"
• Outlet Size: 1/4"
• Connection: Push-to-Connect (CTS)
• Body Material: Brass
• Seat / Seal Material: EPDM
• Max Pressure (psi): 125
• Pack Quantity: 50
• Country of Origin: China
• Warranty: 1 Year Limited
• MPN: LFQC8945S-M1
• Temperature: up to 160°F
• Certifications: NSF-61
• Lead-Free: Yes
• Body Pattern: Straight
• Turn Type: Quarter-Turn
• Inlet Connection: Push-to-Connect (CTS)
• Outlet Connection: OD Compression
• Outlets: 1
• Finish: Chrome Plated
• Automatic Shutoff: No
• Leak Sensor: No
• Hot & Cold Rated: Yes
• Contractor (Bulk) Pack: No