What are expert tips for valve installation & replacement labor?

When a plumber is already at your house for another job, ask them to replace any questionable shut-off valves. The incremental cost is much less than a separate service call. If replacing the main shutoff, upgrade to a full-port ball valve. It flows better and never seizes. Ask the plumber to test the PRV output pressure after installation and show you the reading. For shower valve replacement, check if your shower has an access panel on the back wall. If it does, the job is much cheaper than cutting through tile.

What mistakes should I avoid with valve installation & replacement labor?

Paying a separate service call for each valve replacement. Bundle multiple valves into one visit. Trying to replace a main shutoff valve without shutting off at the meter first. The flow from a main line is unmanageable. Hiring a general handyman for PRV work. Incorrect PRV installation can damage your entire plumbing system. Not testing valves after installation. A new valve that doesn't fully shut off is worse than the old one.

Valve Installation & Replacement Labor

Cost Guide Reference guide $75-$400 labor depending on valve type and access

Created by Ryan Pietrzak Illinois Licensed Plumber · In the plumbing industry since 2009

Updated February 20, 2026

Key Takeaway

Valve installation labor ranges from quick and cheap (swapping a toilet angle stop) to significant (replacing the main shutoff or PRV). Access is the biggest cost driver -- a valve in an open basement is a 30-minute job. The same valve behind a finished wall takes three times longer and requires drywall repair.

Overview

Cost Breakdown

Fixture Shut-Off Valves

Replacing a toilet or sink angle stop: $75-$150 labor. These are accessible under fixtures and typically use compression fittings. A plumber can swap one in 15-30 minutes. If the pipe is copper and the old valve was soldered, add time for cutting and fitting a new compression valve.

Main Water Shutoff Valve

Replacing the main shut-off: $200-$400 labor. This requires shutting off water at the meter (which may need the utility company's involvement), cutting out the old valve, and installing a new ball valve. Access is usually good (near the meter or where the main enters the house) but the stakes are high -- this valve must work perfectly.

PRV Replacement

Replacing a pressure reducing valve: $200-$400 labor (including parts). The plumber shuts off the main, cuts or unscrews the old PRV, installs the new one, adjusts the pressure, and tests. Typically a 1-2 hour job. If the PRV is in a tight space or requires pipe modification, add $50-$100.

Mixing Valve Installation

Point-of-use TMV at a water heater: $100-$200 labor. Shower mixing valve replacement: $200-$500 labor (requires accessing the valve behind the wall). Whole-house TMV: $200-$400 labor. Shower valve replacement is the most expensive because it usually requires cutting into tile or an access panel.

DIY-Friendly Valve Jobs

Toilet and sink angle stops with compression fittings are very DIY-friendly. The main shutoff and PRV are doable for experienced DIYers with the right tools. Shower valve replacement is best left to pros due to the wall access required. Any valve on a gas line must be done by a licensed professional.

Pro Tips

When a plumber is already at your house for another job, ask them to replace any questionable shut-off valves. The incremental cost is much less than a separate service call.
If replacing the main shutoff, upgrade to a full-port ball valve. It flows better and never seizes.
Ask the plumber to test the PRV output pressure after installation and show you the reading.
For shower valve replacement, check if your shower has an access panel on the back wall. If it does, the job is much cheaper than cutting through tile.

Mistakes to Avoid

Paying a separate service call for each valve replacement. Bundle multiple valves into one visit.
Trying to replace a main shutoff valve without shutting off at the meter first. The flow from a main line is unmanageable.
Hiring a general handyman for PRV work. Incorrect PRV installation can damage your entire plumbing system.
Not testing valves after installation. A new valve that doesn't fully shut off is worse than the old one.

When to Call a Pro

Main shutoff replacement, PRV replacement, and any valve work that requires soldering or accessing pipes inside walls. Fixture shut-off valves with compression fittings are good DIY projects.

Bottom Line

Fixture valves: $75-$150 labor. Main shutoff: $200-$400. PRV: $200-$400. Shower valve: $200-$500. Bundle valve replacements into a single plumber visit to save on service call fees.