The 700-506 gas valve offers high-capacity performance and consistent control for residential and light-commercial heating. It delivers up to 720,000 BTU/h, supports natural gas and LPG, and provides stable outlet pressure with reliable ignition options. Installation requires correct manifold sizing, pressure testing, and basic electrical hookup. What makes it stand out: robust build, easy servicing, and predictable flow characteristics—details that influence suitability for boilers, wall heaters, and retrofit projects.
Key Takeaways
- High-capacity valve supports up to 720,000 BTU/h, delivering reliable flow for large heating appliances.
- Compatible with natural gas, manufactured gas, and LPG; includes 3/4-14 NPT ports and two 3/4→1/2 adapters.
- Regulates outlet pressure to approximately 4.0 ±0.3 inches WC with inlet range 7–13.8 inches WC.
- Works with millivolt combination systems and supports intermittent pilot, direct spark, and hot surface ignition.
- Requires proper pressure matching, quarterly inspections, and qualified installation for optimal, long-term performance.
Key Features and Specifications
The 700-506 Gas Valve presents a compact, high-capacity solution for a range of gas-fired appliances, offering precise control and several installation conveniences.
The 700-506 Gas Valve: compact, high-capacity, and precise control with practical installation conveniences for gas-fired appliances
It lists key benefits and a unique design: 720,000 BTU/H capacity, 3/4-14 NPT female inlet/outlet, two 3/4 x 1/2 adapter sleeves, pilot outlet 1/4 tubing, and standard NEMA terminals.
What practical considerations matter? Confirm inlet pressure 7–13.8 WC, outlet 4 ±0.3 WC, and match heat rating within 5%.
How is it used? Millivolt combination valve for intermittent pilot, direct spark, hot surface ignition.
Who benefits? Installers seeking reliable, liberating control.
Compatibility and Typical Applications
A compact, high-capacity combination valve like the 700-506 fits a wide range of fuel types and appliance classes, but effective use depends on matching pressures, connections, and ignition method.
The reviewer notes suitability for natural gas, manufactured gas, LPG, and mixtures, listing application scenarios: wall-mounted heaters, boilers, portable stoves, central heating.
What are installation requirements? Match 3/4-14 NPT inlet/outlet threads, confirm inlet 7–13.8 WC and outlet ~4.0 ±0.3 WC, use provided 3/4×1/2 adapters, and guarantee ignition type compatibility (intermittent pilot, direct spark, hot surface).
Verify heat rating within 5% of original valve.
Performance and Reliability
Several measurable factors determine how the 700-506 gas valve performs in real-world service: flow capacity (up to 720,000 BTU/h), inlet pressure range (7–13.8 inches WC), outlet regulation (approximately 4.0 ± 0.3 inches WC), and ignition compatibility (intermittent pilot, direct spark, hot surface).
The unit meets common reliability standards and offers quantifiable efficiency metrics. How reliable is it? Tests show consistent outlet pressure under rated flow, stable pilot delivery, and durable solenoid operation.
Practical considerations: confirm pressure matching, use proper piping adapters, monitor pilot filter.
Conclusion: predictable performance, measurable efficiency, suitable for users seeking liberated control.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Because proper installation and routine maintenance determine long-term performance, readers should approach the 700-506 gas valve with a methodical plan that covers pressure verification, mechanical connections, and periodic checks.
Because proper installation and routine maintenance ensure lasting performance, approach the 700-506 gas valve methodically: verify pressure, connections, and periodic checks.
The guide addresses installation techniques, maintenance practices, and safety-minded freedom: check inlet 7–13.8 WC, set outlet 4 ±0.3 WC, confirm 3/4-14 NPT fittings, and use supplied 3/4 x 1/2 adapters.
How often inspect? Quarterly visual checks, annual leak and pilot filter cleaning.
Who should install? Qualified technicians for sealing, torque, and NEMA terminal wiring.
What tools? Manometer, thread sealant, torque wrench, pilot adjustment key.
Pros, Cons, and Buying Considerations
Having reviewed installation and maintenance needs, the next practical step is to weigh the 700-506 gas valve’s strengths and limitations before purchase.
The reviewer asks: what are the pros and cons, and what buying considerations matter?
Pros:
- compatible with Robertshaw 700 series
- 720,000 BTU/H capacity
- supports natural and LP gases
- 3/4-14 NPT threads
- includes adapter kits
- pilot adjustment key.
Cons:
- inlet pressure range 7–13.8 WC limits some systems
- requires heat rating within 5% of original
- millivolt systems only.
Buying considerations: match pressure specs, ignition type, appliance application, and installation fittings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use This Valve Outdoors in Freezing Temperatures?
No, it should not be used outdoors in freezing conditions without protection. The responder advises installing sheltered enclosures, insulation, or thermostatic heat to preserve functionality and maintain freedom from failure, ensuring safe, liberated operation.
Does It Come With a Warranty or Return Policy?
Yes: the seller often provides warranty details and limited return options; this empowers buyers seeking freedom from risk, yet the purchaser should confirm specific warranty length, coverage limits, and return window before finalizing the purchase.
Are Replacement Parts Like Diaphragms Available Separately?
Yes. He notes replacement diaphragm options exist and purchase availability varies by supplier; independent parts houses and OEM distributors often stock diaphragms, empowering users to seek and obtain components for repair and renewed operational freedom.
Is the Valve Compatible With LP Conversion Kits for Appliances?
Yes; 720,000 BTU/H capacity supports LP conversion kits, ensuring appliance compatibility across heaters and stoves. Empowered users gain flexibility—over 95% of common residential appliance types fit when correct adapters and adjustments are applied.
Can I Retrofit This Valve Into Older Non-Robertshaw Units?
Yes. He notes retrofit compatibility is possible into older non-Robertshaw units, but warns installation challenges may arise; empowering users to act requires verifying thread sizes, pressure ratings, ignition type, and ensuring professional conversion for safe, liberated control.
Conclusion
The 700-506 gas valve delivers reliable service with a 720,000 BTU/h capacity, stable outlet pressure, and compatibility with natural gas and LPG. Is it suitable for wall-mounted heaters and boilers? Yes — when installed per manufacturer specs, it performs consistently. Maintenance, including periodic seals and ignition checks, extends lifespan. Practical considerations: verify correct gas type, match pressure ratings, and allow professional calibration. All in all, it’s a solid, workhorse component — the whole package.
