Common Valves Problems
Common valves problems and how to diagnose and fix them.
All Valves Problems 3
Stuck Shut-Off Valve
high
Usually discovered during an emergency -- something is leaking and the valve will not budge. Older gate valves seize after years of disuse. Fix ranges from penetrating oil and patience to full replacement.
Tools:
Penetrating oil (PB Blaster or WD-40 Specialist Penetrant)
Adjustable wrench (for packing nut)
Hair dryer or heat gun (for applying heat to metal valves)
Two pipe wrenches (for valve replacement -- one to hold, one to turn)
Teflon tape (for threaded connections)
Replacement quarter-turn ball valve
Pipe cutter (if removing a soldered valve)
Push-fit (SharkBite) fittings (optional, for solderless replacement)
Leaking Valve Stem
medium
Water dripping from around the valve handle or packing nut -- packing failure, not a pipe leak. Fix is usually tightening the nut or replacing the packing, often with the water still on.
Tools:
Adjustable wrench (for packing nut)
Graphite packing string (universal, $3-5 per package)
Pick or small flathead screwdriver (for removing old packing)
Needle-nose pliers (for extracting deteriorated packing material)
Fine emery cloth, 400 grit (for polishing corroded stems)
Plumber's grease (for O-rings and stem lubrication)
Replacement packing washer or O-ring (if applicable)
PRV Failure -- High Water Pressure
high
Pro
Failing PRV lets dangerously high pressure into the house. Bursts supply lines, damages appliances, causes hammer, shortens fixture life, leaks everywhere. Normal is 40-60 PSI. Above 80 is dangerous and needs immediate attention.
Tools:
Water pressure gauge (screw-on type for hose bib, $10-15)
Adjustable wrench (for PRV adjustment screw)
Pipe wrenches (two, for PRV replacement)
Replacement PRV (matched to main line size, typically 3/4 inch)
Plumber's tape or pipe joint compound (for threaded connections)
Thermal expansion tank (if needed, 2-5 gallon residential size)
Tire pressure gauge and bicycle pump (for expansion tank pre-charge)