What type of fittings control the direction of water flow?

Valves are critical components in plumbing and water systems that regulate the flow of water through pipes. They can stop, start, or throttle the flow, allowing for precise control over the direction and volume of water. For instance, a valve can be closed to stop water from flowing, opened fully to allow maximum flow, or positioned at a partial opening to control the flow rate, which is essential in systems requiring specific pressure levels or flow rates.

While elbows are used to change the direction of pipes, they do not control the flow; they merely redirect it. Adaptors are utilized to connect different types of pipes, and couplings join two sections of pipe together. Neither of these options provides the functionality to control the flow of water in the way that valves do.