(416) 231-3331
Anta
We've all been in that situation: You want to replace your vanity or some other plumbing project that requires that you turn off the water using the shutoff valve. It sounds easy enough until you discover the shutoff is either leaking or that the handle has seized in the open position through years of unuse. That means you have to back up a bit and make replacing your shutoff valve the first priority on your to-do list.
So fill a bucket with water and ask the neighbors if you can use their toilet as a backup because you'll be without water for a few hours. Now, before you head over to your nearest plumbing supply store, first consider your options. The last thing we want to do is discourage you from attempting DIY projects, but this one is slightly more complex than the average. However, if you have extensive experience in DIY projects involving plumbing, this shouldn't be too hard.
Here's What You'll Need
- Tongue and groove pliers
- Pipe cutter, PVC cutter or hacksaw
- Adjustable wrench
- Steel-wool and sandpaper
- Rags
- Anta Plumbing's number (just in case!): +1 416-231-3331
How to Replace the Shut Off Valve
Now that you have your tools handy, locate the water main shut-off valve in your basement, garage, or outside. Once it is closed, head to the fixture where the valve you want to replace is located and follow the directions below.
1. How is the fitting connected? It could be a compression fitting, screwed-on fitting, or soldered connection.
2. You now need to remove the old valve in order to get the exact replacement and take it with you to your hardware or plumbing supply store.
3. The first step to installing the new compression fitting, is to clean the end of the pipe over which the fitting will fit, using steel wool or sandpaper.
4. Now slide the compression nut over the waterline, and, if you're using a new one, slide the ring over the waterline.
5. With everything in position, slide your new valve over the waterline and position the handle for ease of access.
6. Next. you need to tighten the compression nut against your valve, using an adjustable wrench to tighten the connection. Some plumbing suppliers recommend using some pipe joint compound on the threads, and this is a good time to do that.
7. No, install the supply line, and connect the valve to the faucet. You may need to repeat this for multiple fixtures.
8. Once you are satisfied with the connections, turn the water main supply back on. Look for seepage, and if there is, tighten the connection slightly. If tightening the connection doesn't solve the seepage, you need to turn off the main supply again and examine the fitting.
These are the basic steps involved in replacing water shut-off valve. However, depending on your level of expertise and your unique setup, you may find it more or less complicated. We recommend getting in touch with Anta Plumbing before your small job turns into a big plumbing emergency.
