Replacing Shut-Off Valves
Shutoff valves are used in order to stop water supply to something like a sink or a toilet. While these are rarely used, you may not realize that they don’t work until after you try to shut them off. When you discover that you need a new shutoff valve, you will need to know what kind of valve you need and how to install it.
Can I Replace a Shut-Off Valve Myself?
There are three types of shutoff valves used in plumbing: a straight stop, angle stop, or a three-way stop. Be sure to get the proper one to make the right repairs.
When replacing a shut-off valve:
- Turn off the main water valve to the house and open up some faucets in the house to relieve any water pressure that has built up in the pipes.
- Use a small, adjustable wrench, to unscrew the water supply line from the shut-off valve.
- Remove the old valve using a wrench and even a small propane torch.
- Place the compression nut for the new value on the copper water pipe.
- Lubricate the compression threads with pipe dope and tighten with the valve attached.
- Reconnect the water supply line once the new valve is in place.
- Turn the water supply back on and check for leaks in the value.
Replacing a shut-off valve takes time and tools you may not have, so be sure you have all the necessary components before turning off the main water line and removing a valve that can cause a water leak. In addition, valves are very size and thread-specific, so bringing the old valve to the plumbing supply shop to ensure that you are getting the product you need.
As always, if you need help with day-to-day plumbing tasks or even larger projects, the licensed plumbing team at Excalibur Plumbing is here to help. Give us a call today to schedule an appointment.