Fumoto Vs EZ Oil Drain Valves
There are two main brands in the Australian oil drain valve market. The Fumoto Oil Drain Valve and the EZ Oil Drain Valve. We thought we'd grab them and do a comparison. This is not a performance comparison, but more a side-by-side feature listing. The fundamental design of both is essentially the same, so their operation is the same.
Fumoto Vs EZ
Fumoto Oil Drain Valve
EZ Oil Drain Valve
Construction
Summary: Both valves look and feel extremely robust. All individual pieces fit perfectly together with fine tolerance on both brands. The lever action feel similarly solid and precise. Spring tension is near identical.
Appearance
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Semi-gloss, brass finish |
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Gloss, silver finish |
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Summary: The EZ is a bit more "bling", if you prefer that.
Installation
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Ease of installation |
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No special tools required |
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Can install on recessed sumps |
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Ease of installation |
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No special tools required |
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Can install on recessed sumps |
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Summary: Both simply install like replacing the sump plug. Both have a range of adaptors and extensions to suit recessed sumps.
Sealing method
Summary: The EZ seems more modern with it's Viton o-ring, but Fumoto's fibre gasket has remained unchanged since it's inception as proof it must work.
Operation
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Double-action lever motion to activate |
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Double-action lever motion to activate |
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Summary: Identical. Dual motion lever to prevent accidental opening.
Hose ends
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Fixed or none, depending on type |
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Not interchangeable |
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Plastic elbow |
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Removable |
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Interchangeable |
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Brass elbow |
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Summary: This is where the EZ comes into it's own. The optional removable hose ends can be removed for extra clearance. If clearance is not an issue, the N-series Fumoto work the same as an EZ with straight hose end.
Price
Summary: Similarly priced. Both valves are low in cost considering the build quality and important job they perform.
Warranty
Conclusion
The Fumoto Oil Drain Valve and The EZ Oil drain valve are very similar in operation, pricing and warranty. The main difference between the two brands are the way the hose ends are attached. The Fumoto offers a few valve variants with no hose end, long hose end and short hose end. The hose ends cannot be changed and are not interchangeable. The EZ only has one type and offers removable hose ends (a straight and a 90 degree elbow) that are interchangeable. This feature may be more desirable for some applications where clearance is an issue. It can make valve selection easier as you can purchase the standard valve and opt for one or both hose ends.
Quality-wise, both look to be extremely well made and durable. The size charts for both brands show a large range of sizes and applications.
For more information on the Fumoto Oil Drain Valve
For more information on the EZ Oil Drain Valve