Good video! A couple of small points could have been mentioned and be helpful to some. 1. It may be a gate valve and not a globe valve, particularly if it's on the main service line. In which case, of course, no washer. 2. It should be mentioned that valve stem assembly should be backed of (in the open position) prior to inserting and tighten back up.(Even though it was shown that way when it was put back.)
Thanks for taking the time to write the comment that adds valve to the video. It's contributions like yours that make the videos even better. I should have mentioned the two things you point out. I do my best to cover everything, though I'm human and sometimes miss something. I will pin your video to the top of the comments. Also, there are now over 200 videos on the channel, including videos that show how to find the main shut off valve, test a pressure reducing valve, fix a valve that is leaking at the stem and many more. Click on the channel name to find them, they are organized by playlist.
THANK YOU!! First off, I loved hearing your voice! Male plumbers tend to treat me like a complete nincompoop, so it's a relief to hear a woman's voice! It's difficult enough getting respect as a woman... but add on the years, and it's even worse!! I do what I can... but this time I don't think I'll try to fix it on my own... it's an OLD house with OLD pipes... and there's a kind man who helps me out so things get fixed at a fair (affordable) price. He'll double check that it's just this one pipe and not the whole system... but now, I was able to talk to him intelligently, and also didn't go right into panic mode. For that, I am grateful to YOU!
You are welcome, Ruth. As a female home owner, before calling anyone for service/repair, I investigate to see if I can fix it. I often find that I can fix it myself. If I decide the repair is beyond my skill level or I would have to buy expensive tools and have to hire someone, I am educated about it. It's never good to look like an easy mark. An honest fair contractor is golden.
@@Know-How-Now Refreshing to have a female DIYer videographer & encouraging & empowering. Yes, having an honest contractor is golden & one that is not trying to upsell everything. Also everything these days are made to be disposed of in very short periods of time. Bad for the consumer & Mother Earth. Thank you for your hard work. Please don't stop making videos!!
BS... Plumbers/Electicians/HVAC Service person usually Much prefer working with a woman rather than a man customer.... The Man usually "knows everything" and usually does not. The only femaole customer we don't appreciate is the "I know you are ripping off" woman.
Thank you. I'm a female doing my own plumbing work. I have found three leaky valves so far, the one to my hot water heater and two to my toilets. I've learned so much. It's good to know what is underneath one's own roof.
I think I'm going to end up breaking up with my boyfriend. He's driving me crazy, he doesn't want me to do repairs in MY house! Like I'm bothering him. why why why did I get involved? I'd be more likely to fix all my house's repairs than make a relationship work...
This is a great video! Well-edited and easy to understand. Most videos in this genre contain a lot of wasted time - I can't tell you how much I appreciate your effort to make this video as efficient as possible. You are a wonderful teacher. Thank you!
Thank you so much for your help. Only a wonderful person like you to help us struggling when we don't know what to do is an incredibly loving and awesome individual. Thank you!!!!
Thanks for the compliment David. There is also a washer or packing material under the nut closest to the handle. If the valve leaks from the stem, then that washer/packing needs to be replaced. I'm working on a video that will show how to fix that problem.
Yes, see the link below. You can find over 200 how to/repair videos on the channel by clicking on the channel name. Then click on the playlist tab, the videos are organized by playlist. th-cam.com/video/g8ORORWGsWw/w-d-xo.html
This was every shutoff in my new to me home. Even the main shutoff didn’t work and someone recently added a quarter turn ball valve, which saved me big time.
I have more videos about the compression style valves. Don't forget to turn them a couple of times a year so they do not get stuck. Watch to make sure they aren't dripping at the stem after they are turned. You might have to tighten the bonnet nut a 1/4 turn (make sure valve is open when you do this) to stop the leak. Link to Know How Now Playlist - Water Valve Repair: th-cam.com/play/PLvce66kQTjJRuwqmH0S5Shjfj5HeRdbMr.html
I just want to say.....Thank you for your video. It walked me through the process of fixing my shut-off valve. Had a major major leak. Thanks again. Happy Holidays to you❤❤❤🎉🎉🎉👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾
Excellent video and accompanied explanation! If I may add, when replacing washer holding screw,always use brass screws. If you use a different metal screw it creates electrolysis, which corrodes both the screw and the valve prematurely. Whenever different metals come into contact with each other in the presence of moisture (even just humidity), they corode each other. Even when I'm doing repairs on my exterior gutters and downspouts I make sure I'm using the same fasteners as materials I'm joining. Copper rivets with copper gutters, aluminum with aluminum etc. Not only does it make fasteners last longer,it prevents unsightly bleeding streaks.
To avert disaster it's always nice to have a 2nd wrench to keep the pipe from twisting and causing a leak. You were holding the wrench upside down by the way when you were retightening. Lol. Don't you think it might be a good idea to put something to keep the valve nut from leaking such as Teflon tape? Thanks for the video! My question was with the identification of proper replacement washers. I guess I'll have to take the valve with me. That's good to know.
This is actually the kind of valve I have for my shutoff for the whole house. I'll have to call the city to turn my water off at the street. They have a special tool to shut it off because I tried to use the one I got and it is way different. The city doesn't want people turning off their water. Lol. They got mad when I told them that I tried shutting it off. Lol. Thanks for the video.
I too had to pay the local water authority (up front, I think it was around $100) to close the curb stop so I could replace the main shut off valve. I read the rules. Interestingly, I am responsible for the curb stop. If it breaks I pay. I am not allowed to turn it to exercise it so it doesn't seize up.
Thanks for linking me to this video. I agree with Paul! Got a giggle out of the dirty hands. I know how that feels! Maybe 1/2 of the time we shut off the water to do a project, I remember to fill a sink .... just in case. You can add that as the first step to your already excellent plumbing videos!
I was thinking, "Oh, crap, I forgot to fill a sink." Well, that's reality plumbing. Thanks for the compliment, please support the channel and subscribe, it's free... and it will help me make more videos.
i attempted to replace the shut off valves under bathroom sink but the hot water side the water doesn’t stop even after 20 minutes of draining with the main water line turned off. do i also need to turn off the hot water tank line too? thank you for your help.
You shouldn't have to turn the valve at the hot water tank, but give it a try. Depending on where the valve is located, it can take a while until the water stops dripping. An old plumbers trick is to stuff some soft white bread in the pipe to stop the dripping. It is supposed to dissolve and wash away when you turn the water on.
@@Know-How-Now thank you for getting back to me. The hot water seems to come out way more than expected even after 20 minutes of having the main line turned off. The water is hot like fresh hot water coming out. i also noticed some noise by the hot water tank in the garage while this is going. sounds like pipe noise. thoughts?
I am a plumber you did a pretty good job of explaining. Something I've always wondered though why they never made the screw that holds the gasket with a brass screw from the factory that always puzzled me. Just like everything else it's about money. And it's not saving it's making you go out and buy a new faucet or whatever you were replacing
Thanks for the compliment, it's an honor to get it from a plumber. I agree, sadly, I find more things that seem to be designed to fail and are not repairable. I have a refrigerator that I bought from my aunt. It's been running non stop without a repair since the late 1970's. If you are lucky a new refrigerator will last 10 years.
Wow, you made that look so easy, and I was so looking forward to doing the same. But unfortunately, my valve does not have that nut that you loosened. It seems that it was soldered on, so now I'm stuck calling the plumber. Worse yet, I have to wait a week until I get paid. Thanks for the video, though. I'm sure you've helped a ton of people.
Is it possible Lily has a valve like some bib faucet with the single nut which is both the packing material and stop valve in a single assembly. Any assembly is screwed on, not soldered. I also cover the nuts with paper towel strips soaked with vinegar to dissolve any mineral or rust deposits before attempting to unscrew. Soak it overnight or when the vinegar evaporates or used up.
@@tonymanero5544 Thanks for your reply. A plumber did eventually fix it, and it wasn't too expensive. But that was 4 years ago, and just a year later, I moved to another house, so that's that! :) But I did take note of your tip about soaking in vinegar. Thank you!
Great video. I broke the head off the screw holding the washer in place, and the washer is shot also. How can I get the screw out? I doubt I can find another entire valve that would match mine, which is about 80 years old?
Sadly, my main supply valve is also a compression valve! But this will definitely come in handy. I swear every compression valve I have, even newer ones, leak at least a little. Makes it nigh impossible to do copper pipe additions/modifications.
Great video... I have a leaking valve in the basement that goes to the kitchen sink.... Valve was locked/corroded tight , would not turn off. I was going to just cut the entire valve out at the copper pipes and use a Sharkbite valve to replace... I'll try this first . Thanks..
In most cases these type of valves can be repaired by a homeowner. Good to hear you got the valve to turn. I exercise all of my valves 2 times a year to keep them from locking up. It's time well spent.
gonna subscribe to your channel. this is like the 4th time youtube has pointed me towards one of your videos over the years and they're always helpful.
Good video on how to change the rubber seats in the globe valves . My next door neighbor in a condo was having work done and couldn't shut off her main in the condo do to seats were bad so she had the city shut off the main out in the street to do the repairs, so I took advantage of the situation and changed all the seats in all my water shut off valves in my condo including my main , that valve wouldn't shut off water either , needles to say all of them work perfectly now .
My supply shut off came with the pedestal sink kit. The sink is fine. But a week after I purchased it, my hot supply shut off valve didn't shut off the water at faucet, but it did if I used the valve. I have replaced it but still having the same problem. What else c a n I look at.
Great video by the way i have a question for you i had plastic speedfit isolators fitted by plumbers who have done jobs in our house over the years not my choice the trouble is their a wasted space i'm having trouble turning them off am i using the correct tool ie screwdriver incidently they havve'nt been turned off since installation ten or more years ago.any ideas appreciated
Yeah, I should have mentioned that, if the text on one side lines up with the seat, it could leak a bit, though the writing is usually not on that area of the washer. Thanks for the good advice. Have a great day.
Simple, to the point and not any BS. I really like hearing it from a women, so much more less complicated! For I do my own repairs and am one to...men like to yack yack yack...
@@Know-How-Now If definitely makes you smarter than the men. In fact, NONE of there video's show to turn the first bolt 1/4 turn...my handle turned easy then, wouldn't budge before. You were the only one who mentioned this. In fact, there has been several key things you do this with and the guys do not...things that have worked and saved me time and money!
@@Know-How-Now Hello there smart lady! I need your help. Hope you see this tonight before I buy supplies I don't really need. I am replying to your reply from a week ago from the great help your video's have been. Anyway I had a kitchen leak around the faucet area. I put in the rubber or o-ring or gasket whatever you call it for some call it one and another...put in the rubber with the spring like I have been doing for years and it stopped the leak on the cold, the hot was fine. So the next day the very old line started leaking under the sink on the cold. I have never changed it in 20 years, so I changed it. The leak stopped yesterday. Ran the water all day then today, the center faucet line started leaking! Is this just a coincidence or can water pressure cause this? This line is also really old and doesn't look good. Do you think I am wasting my time and just need another faucet? Thank you so much!
If you have a pressure reducing valve, you may want to check the water pressure. I have a video for that see link below. If you are the original owner of the faucet, many manufacturers offer a lifetime warranty. Moen has sent me many parts free of charge. th-cam.com/video/ySfaBvV6e84/w-d-xo.html
Thanks!! ?: your spare washers...did you buy that at a home centre or online?? Also, I’ve had good luck with brass screws and bolts at Lee Valley. Even odd size and various head types. Great for fixing old wooden things. Ciao! 👋🏻
I bought the washers at one of the big box home stores. There is no standard for washers. If all of your valves are the same, figure out the best size that fits and buy a bunch of that size.
I've been trying to get some plumbing answers but haven't had a lot of luck. We have a lot of iron in our spring water and so put PVC pipe throughout the house. Metal shut offs seem to fail (water won't shut off) every few years and get replaced. The plumbers don't want to put plastic shut offs in because they "don't like them", they wanted copper piping but we knew from experience that they would get pin holes and leak. Right now our winter overflow shut off won't shut off, i believe it's a ball valve or a butterfly. Could you tell me if the plastic valves are any good or are these guys just not keeping up with the times?
Thanks I don't know anything about water treating. I'll have to look into that. There's no discoloration in our laundry which I thought was a sign of iron. I took the plunge and put in a new plastic ball valve this morning and the old metal one had no ball left to turn hence why it wouldn't shut off. I don't anything else that would do that and still have drinkable water. The old connector had a lot of rust colored sediment in it. I suppose because we don't have a lot of pressure from the gravity fed spring it doesn't get pushed out. We had the water tested a few times over the years and the state says it exceptionally pure maybe they don't test for iron.
Best wishes for a solution. If possible, try to find someone to analyze the situation who doesn't sell water treatment systems. It would be best to get an independent opinion before buying a treatment system.
JUNE 2021 i dont have 2 shutoffs on the main water valve but rather only the BIG turning red wheel.... So, what do i do in this case? should i get a plumber to put in a 2nd backup like what you have here? ps. my house is over 60 years old
THANKS!!!! My moms been having some landscaping done and one of our spigots outside wouldn’t turn off. Only had to turn it once and save her a couple of dollars on a repair.
If it leaks you could try wrapping a turn or two of teflon rope around it if you can't find a replacement gasket/washer. Also if it leaks at the stem after you turn it, tighten up the packing nut a bit. Here's a link to another Know How Now video showing how to do that. th-cam.com/video/HYS_6_dkkYE/w-d-xo.html
Thanks for the helpful video! I was just trying to work on my washer, and when I went to turn the hot water line off, the handle just turns without tightening. I've tried turning it both clockwise and counter-clockwise but it just spins. Will changing the washer and screw fix this? Or should I just buy a new valve? If the latter, is the size fairy standard? Thanks for any help you can offer. I don't have $$ for a plumber so am trying to learn what I need to know fast!
I sounds like the valve is broken. The folks at the plumbing department at the hardware store can help you get a replacement. I remember seeing a This Old House video that shows how to replace a valve using a compression fitting. You might want to try to find that video.
I have the same problem with my water shutoff valve. It spins (the shaft spins too) but doesn't turn move in or out from the pipe. Were you able to fix this on your own? Any tips? Did you find the This Old House video?
I have a question. When doing this type of repair, should you turn off the power to your hot water heater until you turn your water back on, if you have to leave the water off for a while while you run to Lowe's to match the screw?
great video - one thing, as you reinstall the renewed valve into the valve body, it appeared as though there was a larger thin gasket on the threaded valve part that went into the valve body but you never mentioned anything about needing a gasket there. I just want to make sure I have what I'll need before I try this myself. thank you
It's likely that you can just put the valve back together without doing anything with that gasket. If it leaks take the old gasket to a good plumbing supply house to get a replacement. You also might be able to put a round of teflon packing rope on it as a replacement. Some plumbers teflon tape might seal it up too.
A $5 tube of plumbers grease (kitchen safe) for lubing the stem, the screw threads , screw heads. I also use on handle female to male connections. The grease acts as an anti seize for possible metal to metal rusting. I also put on outdoor screw heads like hose faucets to insulate it from rusting. Although rain will abrade it off. The giant Colorado River, water to like 30+ million people, was formed by melting water cutting into rock and ground to be a river over millions of years.
I noticed there is a second valve (that can be turned) on the same line right next to my main water shut off valve. Do I also need to turn that one off in order to shut off the water?
You only need to close one of the valves. If the valves are the type shown in the video, then it is possible that one or both of those valves have a washer that needs to be replaced. Close one and then open a tap to make sure it shuts off the water, if no, then try the other one.
@@Know-How-Now I switched to the off position what the builder told me was the main shut off valve, but after about 10-15 minutes of trying to drain the whole house (1500 sq ft) by running all the faucets, showers, flushing toilets, draining dishwasher, the water still kept running. I'm thinking of also switching the 2nd valve that is right next to the main water shut off valve to see if that works. If it doesn't completely shut off the water it's 100% a faulty main shut off valve, correct?
Yes, try closing the other valve. It does take a while for the water to drain from the system... though it sounds like you have waited long enough. If the water meter is running with the valve closed then it is leaking. If you have both closed and the water stops running, then that would confirm the first valve you closed is bad.
If the main shut off valve is leaking/bad (the one at the meter or where water pipe enters your home), then you'll need to shut off the water at the main. When the water is shut off at the main, you can repair/replace the main shut off in your home. I have a video on the topic: th-cam.com/video/JzvRTo9ve0k/w-d-xo.html
I have a playlist with many videos about water shut off valves. See link below. Please subscribe to the channel. I am one of the few that will answer you. th-cam.com/play/PLvce66kQTjJRuwqmH0S5Shjfj5HeRdbMr.html
@@Know-How-Now yes. But the hose still trickles, so clealy, it's not off completely. Im hoping it's just the washer. My guess is I'll have to have the city shut off at the curb before i remove that handle? Im hoping its that simple...
To confirm that it's not just water still draining from the system, note the water meter reading, turn off water and wait to see if the meter moves. Yes, you would have to get someone to close the curb stop while you make the repair. Odds are good that it's just the washer. The city may charge you to turn off the water.
I might be way off here so correct me, if I am. Every (gas) water heater we've ever had, has a plastic draining valve attached to the bottom of the tank (that allows a hose attachment). And every one of them drips water out AFTER I drain the tank for sediment, the 1st time. I wondered if you've done a video for that situation, because I really like ALL your videos so far! I came here first before going to any other TH-cam account on this subject. The water heater (our 3rd one) we currently have is over 5 years old, and I've never drained it..but I want to now because I think sediment is collecting at the bottom and the hot water runs out, while I'm in the shower, quicker than it used to. I don't want to increase the temp. We have a Water Softener installed and plumbed in (37 years ago), that feeds the water heater, which removes most of the calcium and iron. However, I think there still is a sediment build-up in the tank and I want to drain it out. I'm concerned that once I open that plastic valve and drain it, that it will leak once I shut it off. What do you recommend?? I searched through many of your videos, but didn't find one on my issue. Thanks again for all your great videos! Rick White
@@Know-How-Now I agree!! Thank you for the quick response. My next question is a request. Would you consider making a video that steps through replacing the plastic valve with a non-lead 3/4 brass full port valve? I know it's not an easy job, and I'm not that sure of myself, at my age (72), like I was 20 years ago. I think seeing it done by professional, you, would help a great deal. If you have already done a video for this, then please let me have the link. Thanks again for your response and help. I do appreciate it.😊
I do not have a video on replacing the plastic valve. It sounds like you are on the right track using the 3/4 brass full port valve. Most of the videos are made because I have to solve/fix/repair, so they just sort of happen. I am having fun making them and sharing/helping people. If you have not noticed, the videos are grouped by topic. Click on the playlist tab to find the videos grouped by topic. The other way to find something on the channel is to go to the channel page and enter a keyword in the search box for the channel.
@@Know-How-NowThank you again. I did find a video by "the "fix-it guy" that shows how to replace the plastic with a non-lead 3/4 brass valve. It's not an easy thing to do, though. He had to improvise once or twice and he also had to buy a special pair of channel locks that he had to use to unscrew the plastic from the inside. I'm not aware how much the new tool cost; but I was more interested in seeing him remove it without snapping it in half. He got it out in one piece anyway. I have an AO Smith water heater and I was told it's better than most. However, I don't get why the manufacturer puts those plastic junk valves in a good water heater?? It doesn't make sense to me. Thanks again for the quick response. I remain a fan of your videos.😊
I don't know why they put those crappy valves on either. My water heater is close to 20 years old. I'm scared to open my valve. If the water heater is older, you don't want to open the pressure relief valve either. Chances are good that the gasket/washer will fail and it will leak after it's disturbed. Best wishes for the valve replacement. If I have to take something apart like that, I give the connection a shot of PB Blaster penetrating oil a day before I try to break the connection loose. I'm not sure if PB Blaster vapors are combustible... it might not be a good idea if it's a gas water heater. Thanks for watching the videos.
Thank you for taking the time to write the compliment and for watching the videos, Steven. There are now over 200 how to/repair videos, organized by playlist. If you have a spare moment, click on the channel name to check it out. Thanks for watching!
When I fixed mine, I the head of the brass screw that held the washer in completely crumbled! I thought I was in big trouble! But I picked away all the rubber, and the screw was still solid where the washer protected it. I was able to unscrew the stub of a screw. I brought the part to the hardware store and found a matching brass screw and washer and fixed it. I was shocked that a brass screw would just crumble!
I've had the same thing happen. It's kind of scary because you think it's going to be big trouble. If there is enough of a stub, you can grab it with vice grips and turn it out.
Vampliers, sold by Amazon and others, are a line of precision screw extraction pliers designed to easily remove difficult screws, broken-off nails or bolts, and things like old nails coming up in a stair step or wooden floor. It’s cheaper to have the right tool than it is to replace a valve or make a trip to the hardware store. P.S. Engineer brand Screw Extractor Pliers, models PZ55 and PZ58 and others, are made in Japan by the same company that makes Vampliers, and are also sold by Amazon, but at generally lower prices. Japanese tool lines include designs for smaller hands, and some models of these wonderful pliers are less expensive than others, simply because they are smaller. Pick a size that fits your hand - you’ll be glad you did.
What if i can’t get to the water supply valve since I’m in an apartment? Trying to install a bidet (not totally sure I’m allowed or i would just call landlord). Need a way to shutoff toilet supply but the 1/4 turn valve installed does not impact flow at all for some reason regardless of what way it turns.
@@Know-How-Now you are correct. I ended up calling and they have a replacement valve on order. Frustrating situation but at least itll be fixed soon. Im honestly surprised and thankful i havnt had a reason to shut off the water previously since I wouldn't have been able to in the first place lol
Good to hear the valve is going to be fixed. It's not a bad idea to test shut off valves (I turn my twice a year so they don't get stuck), especially the main shut off valve. Imagine having a leak and no being quickly able to turn the water off.
You are welcome. There are more videos on the channel about repairing these valves. I think I have a link to a playlist in the box below the video or maybe a link in a comment pinned at the top of the comments.
Hi what would you suggest if the water main valve failed? How should it be replaced? Do I call the water company and ask them to shut off the valve at the street?
Hi Jae. You'll have to do a little detective work. I would recommend testing the curb stop prior to scheduling replacing/repairing the main shut off inside your home.(I don't know what you have, though there should be some sort of shut off in the yard close to the street.) Make sure it turns and does shut off the water to your home. You may or may not be responsible for the maint/repair of the curb stop. You may not be allowed to turn the valve. Check with your water company. When I replaced my main shut off valve, I had to pay money up front to the water company and schedule a time and date to have them close the valve. I am not supposed to turn the curb stop, though I have to pay to repair it if it is broken. The water company did come out and test the valve for free.
Thanks for contributing, I didn't know how far below the frost line. I could get the cover off (after a hunt with a screw driver, the cover had grass over it.), but my shut off valve was an odd size, a plumber friend's socket did not fit.
If you can find an identical new valve, take the “guts”out of the new one and place in the old valve. Fixed without soldering. You can use this trick on many repairs. Bath vent fan is my favorite change out the guts project.
Thanks for taking the time to write the helpful comment. If you can't buy an identical valve and the one that needs to be replaced is in a spot that's hard to access to solder. You likely have an identical valve somewhere else in your home that is easy to replace via soldering. Replace the easy access valve with a new one and transfer the "guts" to the one that is difficult to replace. I also have a video that shows how to rebuild valves. You may be able to rehab the valve and use it at another location. th-cam.com/video/g8ORORWGsWw/w-d-xo.html
If you are sure just the nut is stripped and it's a newer valve you may be able to buy a new valve and steal the nut off of it. Make sure you can get the handle off too.
Hi Ann, I just watched the beginning of the video. I don't mention the curb stop, so I'm kind of confused about your question. The curb stop is the valve that shuts the water off to the main water supply shut off valve in your home. I am closing the main supply valve to the house. If you close that valve and water continues to flow at your fixtures, then the main shut off valve is not working. Hopefully I have answered your question.
This is an old video so idk if you will see this but if you do & you can help please let me know. My issue is that my valve wont stop spinning when i try to clothes i spun it for 5 minutes it just kept spinning & spinning
You are welcome. My experience is that the screw head that holds the washer in place deteriorates and crumbles. I would be wary of putting anti-seize into a drinking water supply, though it would be highly diluted. Maybe you could put a very small piece of plumbers tape on the threads.
It's likely you'll have to have your water supplier turn the water off at the curb stop, even if you have the tool, some water suppliers don't allow you to turn the valve. I had to pay a fee to have mine turned off when I replaced my main shut off valve. I have a video that may interest you: th-cam.com/video/JzvRTo9ve0k/w-d-xo.html
No, there should be a gasket/washer making that seal. You only need to use Teflon tape on a connection that doesn't have some sort of gasket/washer to make the seal.
A good point would be to find a screw replacement before you start this removal so your water isn't shut off for two to three hours while you go search for a screw. So are these screws a common replacement that any hardware store attendant would know what your talking about? Or do you really have to take the screw with you to the store?And if I am making this trip to the hardware store could I just buy a replacement valve assembly that would screw into my existing valve?
In the past I've found packets of the screws at Home Depot. If the screw has been in there a long time they sometimes just crumble apart. It's hit or miss at the big box stores of having someone who is knowledgeable. If you have a plumbing supply house they are usually pretty good. Valves don't have a standard, so the chances of finding another identical valve is not good, especially if it's older. check out this link for home depot: www.homedepot.com/p/DANCO-Flat-Faucet-Washers-and-Screws-Assortment-14-Piece-80790/203193510
If the shut off valve looks similar to the one in the video (A handle that you turn multiple times.) , then it is likely that it has a rubber washer on the end of the valve stem that can be replaced.
I have a sprinkler valve which is running free in both directions and there is no water flowing in the sprinkler system. Any tips on how to fix it ? BTW very clear and no-nonsense videos. Thanks !
I don't have any experience with home sprinkler valves. We get plenty of rain here (too much this summer) so there is no need for sprinklers here. Sorry I can't help you with that problem. Thanks for the compliment on the videos. I try to make them informative & as short as possible.
@@Know-How-Now Thanks. Actually the valve head looks exactly same as one shown in this video. Valve head is moving freely i.e. neither shutting off nor opening the valve.
Do you know if the valve was stuck and broke when turned? If it is stuck & broken, then I doubt that it can be fixed. If you could buy an identical valve you could swap out the stem, but if it's stuck inside you may not be able to get it unstuck.
Hi Frederick, I've been a bit bogged down taking care of things that keep popping up that have to get to the top of the to do list lately. There are still new videos being posted, though not as many as I would like. After I clear a few more things out of the way, my goal is to post one new one per week. I was in the Army and repaired Hawk Radars 24J (electronic tech).
Thanks for the compliment, Jesse. Please consider supporting the channel and subscribe. Sadly, TH-cam often does not reward short and to the point videos (There is more money to be made the longer you watch). The more subscribers the channel has and complete views of it's videos will push these videos to top of the search list. Any help is appreciated.
I thought my HW valve handle wasn't shutting off the supply, though it turned like it should and felt normal...Turns out it was the valve to the dishwasher, lol! You might want to mention the possibility.
1:51 - "If it is hard to loosen, use another wrench to hold onto the valve body while you are turning the nut." Where is the valve body? Is it that "T" intersection to the left of the wrench? I don't see where I would put a wrench there. Do you mean put a wrench to the right of the first wrench, on the packing nut? Thanks!
The valve body is the hollow "T" into which the valve stem and handle screw into. The concept is to hold onto the body so that you are not putting stress onto the joints while trying to remove the stem/handle. You could break a joint or cause a leak.
@@squirrelattackspidy Best wishes. Be patient and you might be able to work it loose. I had a seat post that was stuck in a bike frame. I treated it with PB Blaster a couple of times a day and gave the post some taps with a hammer. It took 3 days of this treatment until I could finally break it loose.
Looks like I might need to call a plumber on this one. This is in the basement with no drains . Cold line is going through a hot water heater and then a furnace before getting to the shut off for the washer. Both hot and cold shut offs are stuck, even after scraping off the mineral buildup and three days of liquid wrench. The backup shutoffs between the furnace and washer are also frozen and covered in mineral build up. Wondering if even the water main in the basement is going to turn. Plumber is going to make his mortgage payment on this call.
thanks for this vid...I was worried I would have to call a plumber since my outside water shutoff valve was not turning off the outside water. The shutoff valve is in a very tight spot in my basement so I was worried I would have to call a plumber to solder a new valve!
I keep spinning mine to the right and doesn't ever stop, its at the top, so I could barely reach and kind of see it, only from its bottom and I'm 5'11. What does this mean? Is it broken or something?
Hi five lady! Impressive! After looking everywhere for this type of valve replacement I found your video. I have stop & waste valve and I want to replace with it with t-adapter, so I can hook up a branch water line. Do you think it will work?
Hit my bonnet nut with every wrench I had, PB blaster, hammer taps and my impact gun with no success. Ended up just tightening the gland nut as much as I could and that seemed to work.
It sounds like the stem is broken. Perhaps it was stuck, forced and then broken. If they the type of valve shown in the video are not periodically turned, they can become stuck.
Good video!
A couple of small points could have been mentioned and be helpful to some.
1. It may be a gate valve and not a globe valve, particularly if it's on the main service line. In which case, of course, no washer.
2. It should be mentioned that valve stem assembly should be backed of (in the open position) prior to inserting and tighten back up.(Even though it was shown that way when it was put back.)
Thanks for taking the time to write the comment that adds valve to the video. It's contributions like yours that make the videos even better. I should have mentioned the two things you point out. I do my best to cover everything, though I'm human and sometimes miss something. I will pin your video to the top of the comments. Also, there are now over 200 videos on the channel, including videos that show how to find the main shut off valve, test a pressure reducing valve, fix a valve that is leaking at the stem and many more. Click on the channel name to find them, they are organized by playlist.
@@Know-How-Now If you have a gate valve, replace it now with a ball lever valve. They have high failure rates.
Best to change any old valve to a full flow ball valve. If you cannot sweat fittings, use compression adapters.
@@lichub Here gate valve get filled with calcium , ball valves are higher quality .
Okay.
THANK YOU!! First off, I loved hearing your voice! Male plumbers tend to treat me like a complete nincompoop, so it's a relief to hear a woman's voice! It's difficult enough getting respect as a woman... but add on the years, and it's even worse!! I do what I can... but this time I don't think I'll try to fix it on my own... it's an OLD house with OLD pipes... and there's a kind man who helps me out so things get fixed at a fair (affordable) price. He'll double check that it's just this one pipe and not the whole system... but now, I was able to talk to him intelligently, and also didn't go right into panic mode. For that, I am grateful to YOU!
You are welcome, Ruth. As a female home owner, before calling anyone for service/repair, I investigate to see if I can fix it. I often find that I can fix it myself. If I decide the repair is beyond my skill level or I would have to buy expensive tools and have to hire someone, I am educated about it. It's never good to look like an easy mark. An honest fair contractor is golden.
Ruth Klein I'm in the same situation & you are absolutely right. Tired of it so taking matters into my own hands.
@@Know-How-Now Refreshing to have a female DIYer videographer & encouraging & empowering. Yes, having an honest contractor is golden & one that is not trying to upsell everything. Also everything these days are made to be disposed of in very short periods of time. Bad for the consumer & Mother Earth. Thank you for your hard work. Please don't stop making videos!!
BS... Plumbers/Electicians/HVAC Service person usually Much prefer working with a woman rather than a man customer.... The Man usually "knows everything" and usually does not. The only femaole customer we don't appreciate is the "I know you are ripping off" woman.
Thank you. I'm a female doing my own plumbing work. I have found three leaky valves so far, the one to my hot water heater and two to my toilets. I've learned so much. It's good to know what is underneath one's own roof.
Way to go on the successful repairs, Susan Keep up the good work. I find the more you do, the more you know and each repair gets a little easier.
I think I'm going to end up breaking up with my boyfriend. He's driving me crazy, he doesn't want me to do repairs in MY house! Like I'm bothering him. why why why did I get involved? I'd be more likely to fix all my house's repairs than make a relationship work...
This is a great video! Well-edited and easy to understand. Most videos in this genre contain a lot of wasted time - I can't tell you how much I appreciate your effort to make this video as efficient as possible. You are a wonderful teacher. Thank you!
You are welcome, Tom. I do my best to respect your time and still provide enough guidance to fix the problem.
I agree. So many videos take two or three minutes just to get started or get to the point. I never have this issue with Know How Now videos.
My sentiments exactly. Great video and straight to the point. Congratulations and thank you.
Just what I needed! So simple...saved me an unnecessary repair bill. Thank you!
You are welcome, Peter!
Thank you so much for your help. Only a wonderful person like you to help us struggling when we don't know what to do is an incredibly loving and awesome individual. Thank you!!!!
You are welcome, Nancy. It's my pleasure to help people solve common problems. Thank you for the kind words. Have a great day!
Thanks for the compliment David. There is also a washer or packing material under the nut closest to the handle. If the valve leaks from the stem, then that washer/packing needs to be replaced. I'm working on a video that will show how to fix that problem.
Do you have the video yet? thanks,
Yes, see the link below. You can find over 200 how to/repair videos on the channel by clicking on the channel name. Then click on the playlist tab, the videos are organized by playlist. th-cam.com/video/g8ORORWGsWw/w-d-xo.html
Thank you! The guy at Home Depot told me wrong! I went back with the stem and showed him your video. Thanks again!
You are welcome. It's always great to hear the video was helpful.
Your videos are the best you are a very good instructor especially with the presentation style pace with print overlay .
Thanks for the compliment. I do my best to make good and accurate content. If you celebrate them, have a great holiday.
@@Know-How-Now Yes I do both Chanukah and Christmas the fullness of which was coincident! Same to you and Happy New Gregorian New Year;) wink wink
This was every shutoff in my new to me home. Even the main shutoff didn’t work and someone recently added a quarter turn ball valve, which saved me big time.
I have more videos about the compression style valves. Don't forget to turn them a couple of times a year so they do not get stuck. Watch to make sure they aren't dripping at the stem after they are turned. You might have to tighten the bonnet nut a 1/4 turn (make sure valve is open when you do this) to stop the leak. Link to Know How Now Playlist - Water Valve Repair:
th-cam.com/play/PLvce66kQTjJRuwqmH0S5Shjfj5HeRdbMr.html
0:38 "The main water supply" turn off might be the valve out at your water meter in the sidewalk for some people.
I just want to say.....Thank you for your video. It walked me through the process of fixing my shut-off valve. Had a major major leak. Thanks again. Happy Holidays to you❤❤❤🎉🎉🎉👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾
You are welcome, it's my pleasure to help. Happy Holidays to you and your family too.
Excellent video and accompanied explanation!
If I may add, when replacing washer holding screw,always use brass screws. If you use a different metal screw it creates electrolysis, which corrodes both the screw and the valve prematurely. Whenever different metals come into contact with each other in the presence of moisture (even just humidity), they corode each other.
Even when I'm doing repairs on my exterior gutters and downspouts I make sure I'm using the same fasteners as materials I'm joining. Copper rivets with copper gutters, aluminum with aluminum etc.
Not only does it make fasteners last longer,it prevents unsightly bleeding streaks.
I've found that some of the new screws are plated and look like chrome, but are made for water valves.
Neat. Hoping this is the issue for my parents' toilet so we won't have to call a plumber tomorrow. Thanks for the simple and straightforward video!
To avert disaster it's always nice to have a 2nd wrench to keep the pipe from twisting and causing a leak. You were holding the wrench upside down by the way when you were retightening. Lol. Don't you think it might be a good idea to put something to keep the valve nut from leaking such as Teflon tape? Thanks for the video! My question was with the identification of proper replacement washers. I guess I'll have to take the valve with me. That's good to know.
Just buy a new fiber washer that fits the stem body.
Good video. I never thought of just replacing the washer in a valve that is a shut off. The vice grips is a great idea! Thanks.
This is actually the kind of valve I have for my shutoff for the whole house. I'll have to call the city to turn my water off at the street. They have a special tool to shut it off because I tried to use the one I got and it is way different. The city doesn't want people turning off their water. Lol. They got mad when I told them that I tried shutting it off. Lol. Thanks for the video.
I too had to pay the local water authority (up front, I think it was around $100) to close the curb stop so I could replace the main shut off valve. I read the rules. Interestingly, I am responsible for the curb stop. If it breaks I pay. I am not allowed to turn it to exercise it so it doesn't seize up.
Thanks for linking me to this video. I agree with Paul!
Got a giggle out of the dirty hands. I know how that feels!
Maybe 1/2 of the time we shut off the water to do a project, I remember to fill a sink .... just in case.
You can add that as the first step to your already excellent plumbing videos!
I was thinking, "Oh, crap, I forgot to fill a sink." Well, that's reality plumbing. Thanks for the compliment, please support the channel and subscribe, it's free... and it will help me make more videos.
I've watched a friend do this several times. Of course, I forgot. This video is perfect! Thank you:)
You are welcome.
4:18 Before reinstalling the valve stem into the body, it is worth putting a new seal on the valve stem joint too (where it joins the body)
Who ask you!!🤣🤣🤣🤣
You would think you could buy a replacement stem ass’y
I find putting some anti seize compound on the screw as well as all threads helps with future removal.
Spend $5 on plumber grease which is deem kitchen safe. Anti seize is toxic and not for potable water use.
i attempted to replace the shut off valves under bathroom sink but the hot water side the water doesn’t stop even after 20 minutes of draining with the main water line turned off. do i also need to turn off the hot water tank line too? thank you for your help.
You shouldn't have to turn the valve at the hot water tank, but give it a try. Depending on where the valve is located, it can take a while until the water stops dripping. An old plumbers trick is to stuff some soft white bread in the pipe to stop the dripping. It is supposed to dissolve and wash away when you turn the water on.
@@Know-How-Now thank you for getting back to me. The hot water seems to come out way more than expected even after 20 minutes of having the main line turned off. The water is hot like fresh hot water coming out. i also noticed some noise by the hot water tank in the garage while this is going. sounds like pipe noise. thoughts?
I am a plumber you did a pretty good job of explaining. Something I've always wondered though why they never made the screw that holds the gasket with a brass screw from the factory that always puzzled me. Just like everything else it's about money. And it's not saving it's making you go out and buy a new faucet or whatever you were replacing
Thanks for the compliment, it's an honor to get it from a plumber. I agree, sadly, I find more things that seem to be designed to fail and are not repairable. I have a refrigerator that I bought from my aunt. It's been running non stop without a repair since the late 1970's. If you are lucky a new refrigerator will last 10 years.
Great help. I used a standard spark plug socket & ratchet wrench instead of a crescent wrench to avoid stripping the nut.
Wow, you made that look so easy, and I was so looking forward to doing the same. But unfortunately, my valve does not have that nut that you loosened. It seems that it was soldered on, so now I'm stuck calling the plumber. Worse yet, I have to wait a week until I get paid. Thanks for the video, though. I'm sure you've helped a ton of people.
Sorry the video did not help with your problem, Lily. Thanks for watching. Hopefully it will be small bill from the plumber.
Is it possible Lily has a valve like some bib faucet with the single nut which is both the packing material and stop valve in a single assembly. Any assembly is screwed on, not soldered. I also cover the nuts with paper towel strips soaked with vinegar to dissolve any mineral or rust deposits before attempting to unscrew. Soak it overnight or when the vinegar evaporates or used up.
@@tonymanero5544 Thanks for your reply. A plumber did eventually fix it, and it wasn't too expensive. But that was 4 years ago, and just a year later, I moved to another house, so that's that! :) But I did take note of your tip about soaking in vinegar. Thank you!
Great video. I broke the head off the screw holding the washer in place, and the washer is shot also. How can I get the screw out? I doubt I can find another entire valve that would match mine, which is about 80 years old?
I have a video for that problem: th-cam.com/video/fdGgog4q_NA/w-d-xo.html
Sadly, my main supply valve is also a compression valve! But this will definitely come in handy. I swear every compression valve I have, even newer ones, leak at least a little. Makes it nigh impossible to do copper pipe additions/modifications.
Great video... I have a leaking valve in the basement that goes to the kitchen sink.... Valve was locked/corroded tight , would not turn off. I was going to just cut the entire valve out at the copper pipes and use a Sharkbite valve to replace... I'll try this first . Thanks..
In most cases these type of valves can be repaired by a homeowner. Good to hear you got the valve to turn. I exercise all of my valves 2 times a year to keep them from locking up. It's time well spent.
any raised writing on the rubber washer should go opposite side of valve seat
Another wonderful DIY video, Diane. Thank you so much!
You are welcome!
I just flipped the washer around and put it back together. Did this for two and fixed the issue... Not sure how long this'll last though :)
gonna subscribe to your channel. this is like the 4th time youtube has pointed me towards one of your videos over the years and they're always helpful.
Thanks for subscribing, Alex. I try to make quality videos. I have them organized by playlist.
Good video on how to change the rubber seats in the globe valves . My next door neighbor in a condo was having work done and couldn't shut off her main in the condo do to seats were bad so she had the city shut off the main out in the street to do the repairs, so I took advantage of the situation and changed all the seats in all my water shut off valves in my condo including my main , that valve wouldn't shut off water either , needles to say all of them work perfectly now .
Way to go on taking advantage of an opportunity to repair the main shut off valve. I had to pay a fee to the water company to fix mine.
All you needed to do is change out your main valve, then take your time doing the rest.
Thank you so much!!! Had a leaking faucet that I’m replacing next week and both valves are dripping under the sink $1.59 problem fixed.
You are welcome, Erin!
My supply shut off came with the pedestal sink kit. The sink is fine. But a week after I purchased it, my hot supply shut off valve didn't shut off the water at faucet, but it did if I used the valve. I have replaced it but still having the same problem. What else c a n I look at.
Should you use teflon tape on the threads before putting it back into the valve?
You only need teflon tape on tapered threads. There are gaskets/washers on other types of connections.
Great video by the way i have a question for you i had plastic speedfit isolators fitted by plumbers who have done jobs in our house over the years not my choice the trouble is their a wasted space i'm having trouble turning them off am i using the correct tool ie screwdriver incidently they havve'nt been turned off since installation ten or more years ago.any ideas appreciated
I will be attempting this tomorrow. Thank you for your video and insight. It is greatly appreciated.
Best wishes for the repair, I hope it goes well.
Nice video. Just want to add that when you put in the new washer, expose the flush side of the washer, and hide the text side.
Yeah, I should have mentioned that, if the text on one side lines up with the seat, it could leak a bit, though the writing is usually not on that area of the washer. Thanks for the good advice. Have a great day.
Very helpful video, so much appreciated, and you did a fantastic job of explaining things!!
Simple, to the point and not any BS. I really like hearing it from a women, so much more less complicated! For I do my own repairs and am one to...men like to yack yack yack...
I do my best to not waste your time. Who wants to hear some lady yakking? lol
@@Know-How-Now If definitely makes you smarter than the men. In fact, NONE of there video's show to turn the first bolt 1/4 turn...my handle turned easy then, wouldn't budge before. You were the only one who mentioned this. In fact, there has been several key things you do this with and the guys do not...things that have worked and saved me time and money!
I have to admit, I learned a lot of what I know from men. lol. I'm having fun making the videos and helping people. Have a great day!
@@Know-How-Now Hello there smart lady! I need your help. Hope you see this tonight before I buy supplies I don't really need. I am replying to your reply from a week ago from the great help your video's have been.
Anyway I had a kitchen leak around the faucet area. I put in the rubber or o-ring or gasket whatever you call it for some call it one and another...put in the rubber with the spring like I have been doing for years and it stopped the leak on the cold, the hot was fine. So the next day the very old line started leaking under the sink on the cold. I have never changed it in 20 years, so I changed it. The leak stopped yesterday. Ran the water all day then today, the center faucet line started leaking!
Is this just a coincidence or can water pressure cause this? This line is also really old and doesn't look good. Do you think I am wasting my time and just need another faucet?
Thank you so much!
If you have a pressure reducing valve, you may want to check the water pressure. I have a video for that see link below. If you are the original owner of the faucet, many manufacturers offer a lifetime warranty. Moen has sent me many parts free of charge. th-cam.com/video/ySfaBvV6e84/w-d-xo.html
Video makes this look doable. I have a different shape of valve. Here's to trying!
I like you attitude, Mary Anne! Best wishes for a successful repair.!
great video. just fixed mine, all it needed was the washer. thanks so much!
Way to go on the successful repair! You are welcome.
Thanks!!
?: your spare washers...did you buy that at a home centre or online??
Also, I’ve had good luck with brass screws and bolts at Lee Valley. Even odd size and various head types. Great for fixing old wooden things.
Ciao! 👋🏻
I bought the washers at one of the big box home stores. There is no standard for washers. If all of your valves are the same, figure out the best size that fits and buy a bunch of that size.
I've been trying to get some plumbing answers but haven't had a lot of luck. We have a lot of iron in our spring water and so put PVC pipe throughout the house. Metal shut offs seem to fail (water won't shut off) every few years and get replaced. The plumbers don't want to put plastic shut offs in because they "don't like them", they wanted copper piping but we knew from experience that they would get pin holes and leak. Right now our winter overflow shut off won't shut off, i believe it's a ball valve or a butterfly. Could you tell me if the plastic valves are any good or are these guys just not keeping up with the times?
Have you looked into treating your water?
Thanks I don't know anything about water treating. I'll have to look into that. There's no discoloration in our laundry which I thought was a sign of iron. I took the plunge and put in a new plastic ball valve this morning and the old metal one had no ball left to turn hence why it wouldn't shut off. I don't anything else that would do that and still have drinkable water. The old connector had a lot of rust colored sediment in it. I suppose because we don't have a lot of pressure from the gravity fed spring it doesn't get pushed out. We had the water tested a few times over the years and the state says it exceptionally pure maybe they don't test for iron.
Best wishes for a solution. If possible, try to find someone to analyze the situation who doesn't sell water treatment systems. It would be best to get an independent opinion before buying a treatment system.
Yo! I love you. I'm new to this so I kept looking up the wrong things. Your visual was great and explanation.
Can you buy a new valve, and swap the innards? Or are they all configured differently
There is no standard. You would have to find the same valve. The ones in the video are 75 years old and the company that made them no longer exists.
7 years later and this video is here to remind me of what I forgot when my grandpa showed me 20-30 years prior. 😂
JUNE 2021 i dont have 2 shutoffs on the main water valve but rather only the BIG turning red wheel.... So, what do i do in this case? should i get a plumber to put in a 2nd backup like what you have here? ps. my house is over 60 years old
THANKS!!!! My moms been having some landscaping done and one of our spigots outside wouldn’t turn off. Only had to turn it once and save her a couple of dollars on a repair.
It's nice of you to fix your mom's spigot and save on a plumber's bill.
Good video. Looks easy. I just worry about it leaking at the valve body after I turn it back in.
If it leaks you could try wrapping a turn or two of teflon rope around it if you can't find a replacement gasket/washer. Also if it leaks at the stem after you turn it, tighten up the packing nut a bit. Here's a link to another Know How Now video showing how to do that. th-cam.com/video/HYS_6_dkkYE/w-d-xo.html
@@Know-How-Now Thank You.
You are welcome.
Thanks for the helpful video! I was just trying to work on my washer, and when I went to turn the hot water line off, the handle just turns without tightening. I've tried turning it both clockwise and counter-clockwise but it just spins. Will changing the washer and screw fix this? Or should I just buy a new valve? If the latter, is the size fairy standard? Thanks for any help you can offer. I don't have $$ for a plumber so am trying to learn what I need to know fast!
I sounds like the valve is broken. The folks at the plumbing department at the hardware store can help you get a replacement. I remember seeing a This Old House video that shows how to replace a valve using a compression fitting. You might want to try to find that video.
I have the same problem with my water shutoff valve. It spins (the shaft spins too) but doesn't turn move in or out from the pipe. Were you able to fix this on your own? Any tips? Did you find the This Old House video?
this video is the best one I've seen on this topic. very detailed in every respect. thank you!
You are welcome!
Thanks! Now to see if the washing machine valves can be repaired rather than sweated out.
You are welcome, Andy. I hope the repair goes smoothly.
I have a question. When doing this type of repair, should you turn off the power to your hot water heater until you turn your water back on, if you have to leave the water off for a while while you run to Lowe's to match the screw?
You don't need to turn the water heater off.
3:30 What is the best material for a washer to be made of? There must make superior washers that don't deteriorate?
I don't know of any washers that don't deteriorate. Some people like ball valves, but I'm sure after some time they have problems too.
@@Know-How-Now I Googled. Apparently neoprene are good, if you can get them.
great video - one thing, as you reinstall the renewed valve into the valve body, it appeared as though there was a larger thin gasket on the threaded valve part that went into the valve body but you never mentioned anything about needing a gasket there.
I just want to make sure I have what I'll need before I try this myself.
thank you
It's likely that you can just put the valve back together without doing anything with that gasket. If it leaks take the old gasket to a good plumbing supply house to get a replacement. You also might be able to put a round of teflon packing rope on it as a replacement. Some plumbers teflon tape might seal it up too.
A $5 tube of plumbers grease (kitchen safe) for lubing the stem, the screw threads , screw heads. I also use on handle female to male connections. The grease acts as an anti seize for possible metal to metal rusting. I also put on outdoor screw heads like hose faucets to insulate it from rusting. Although rain will abrade it off. The giant Colorado River, water to like 30+ million people, was formed by melting water cutting into rock and ground to be a river over millions of years.
I noticed there is a second valve (that can be turned) on the same line right next to my main water shut off valve. Do I also need to turn that one off in order to shut off the water?
You only need to close one of the valves. If the valves are the type shown in the video, then it is possible that one or both of those valves have a washer that needs to be replaced. Close one and then open a tap to make sure it shuts off the water, if no, then try the other one.
@@Know-How-Now I switched to the off position what the builder told me was the main shut off valve, but after about 10-15 minutes of trying to drain the whole house (1500 sq ft) by running all the faucets, showers, flushing toilets, draining dishwasher, the water still kept running. I'm thinking of also switching the 2nd valve that is right next to the main water shut off valve to see if that works. If it doesn't completely shut off the water it's 100% a faulty main shut off valve, correct?
Yes, try closing the other valve. It does take a while for the water to drain from the system... though it sounds like you have waited long enough. If the water meter is running with the valve closed then it is leaking. If you have both closed and the water stops running, then that would confirm the first valve you closed is bad.
@@Know-How-Now Thank you so much for this advice.
Thank you very much. This made it easy to fix a problem that's been bothering me for years.
You are welcome. Way to go on fixing the problem.
Hey what do If I don't have a main water shut off? I only have the compression style valve for main water shut off.
If the main shut off valve is leaking/bad (the one at the meter or where water pipe enters your home), then you'll need to shut off the water at the main. When the water is shut off at the main, you can repair/replace the main shut off in your home. I have a video on the topic: th-cam.com/video/JzvRTo9ve0k/w-d-xo.html
So where is the water when changing the main shut off valve? Please help as I have issues with main shut off valve.
I have a playlist with many videos about water shut off valves. See link below. Please subscribe to the channel. I am one of the few that will answer you. th-cam.com/play/PLvce66kQTjJRuwqmH0S5Shjfj5HeRdbMr.html
My main water turn off isn't quite off as the hose runs even though a trickle, but constant. Is it just a washer issue? Do you have that video?
I'm not super clear on your question. Are you saying that you are closing the valve that shuts off all of the water to your home?
@@Know-How-Now yes. But the hose still trickles, so clealy, it's not off completely. Im hoping it's just the washer. My guess is I'll have to have the city shut off at the curb before i remove that handle? Im hoping its that simple...
@@Know-How-Now thank you for responding! I know the video is a little older
To confirm that it's not just water still draining from the system, note the water meter reading, turn off water and wait to see if the meter moves. Yes, you would have to get someone to close the curb stop while you make the repair. Odds are good that it's just the washer. The city may charge you to turn off the water.
@@Know-How-Now I've been really lucky with them, they pop by then back again to turn ot back on. Of course , now they will.
I might be way off here so correct me, if I am.
Every (gas) water heater we've ever had, has a plastic draining valve attached to the bottom of the tank (that allows a hose attachment).
And every one of them drips water out AFTER I drain the tank for sediment, the 1st time.
I wondered if you've done a video for that situation, because I really like ALL your videos so far!
I came here first before going to any other TH-cam account on this subject.
The water heater (our 3rd one) we currently have is over 5 years old, and I've never drained it..but I want to now because I think sediment is collecting at the bottom and the hot water runs out, while I'm in the shower, quicker than it used to. I don't want to increase the temp.
We have a Water Softener installed and plumbed in (37 years ago), that feeds the water heater, which removes most of the calcium and iron.
However, I think there still is a sediment build-up in the tank and I want to drain it out.
I'm concerned that once I open that plastic valve and drain it, that it will leak once I shut it off. What do you recommend??
I searched through many of your videos, but didn't find one on my issue.
Thanks again for all your great videos!
Rick White
Hi Rick, you might consider replacing the plastic drain valve with a ball valve. As you have experienced those drain valves tend to leak.
@@Know-How-Now I agree!! Thank you for the quick response. My next question is a request. Would you consider making a video that steps through replacing the plastic valve with a non-lead 3/4 brass full port valve? I know it's not an easy job, and I'm not that sure of myself, at my age (72), like I was 20 years ago. I think seeing it done by professional, you, would help a great deal. If you have already done a video for this, then please let me have the link. Thanks again for your response and help. I do appreciate it.😊
I do not have a video on replacing the plastic valve. It sounds like you are on the right track using the 3/4 brass full port valve. Most of the videos are made because I have to solve/fix/repair, so they just sort of happen. I am having fun making them and sharing/helping people. If you have not noticed, the videos are grouped by topic. Click on the playlist tab to find the videos grouped by topic. The other way to find something on the channel is to go to the channel page and enter a keyword in the search box for the channel.
@@Know-How-NowThank you again. I did find a video by "the "fix-it guy" that shows how to replace the plastic with a non-lead 3/4 brass valve. It's not an easy thing to do, though. He had to improvise once or twice and he also had to buy a special pair of channel locks that he had to use to unscrew the plastic from the inside. I'm not aware how much the new tool cost; but I was more interested in seeing him remove it without snapping it in half. He got it out in one piece anyway.
I have an AO Smith water heater and I was told it's better than most. However, I don't get why the manufacturer puts those plastic junk valves in a good water heater?? It doesn't make sense to me. Thanks again for the quick response. I remain a fan of your videos.😊
I don't know why they put those crappy valves on either. My water heater is close to 20 years old. I'm scared to open my valve. If the water heater is older, you don't want to open the pressure relief valve either. Chances are good that the gasket/washer will fail and it will leak after it's disturbed. Best wishes for the valve replacement. If I have to take something apart like that, I give the connection a shot of PB Blaster penetrating oil a day before I try to break the connection loose. I'm not sure if PB Blaster vapors are combustible... it might not be a good idea if it's a gas water heater. Thanks for watching the videos.
Excellent, this is the second video I watched in your series, the first was a great instruction and this is every bit as much.
Thank you for taking the time to write the compliment and for watching the videos, Steven. There are now over 200 how to/repair videos, organized by playlist. If you have a spare moment, click on the channel name to check it out. Thanks for watching!
what about if a saddle valve wont close al the way, its closed all the way but water still flows ?
I don't know of a way to repair saddle valves.
I like your thorough explanation of everything, very good job. Now off to stop the leak.
Thanks for the compliment, Rick.
When I fixed mine, I the head of the brass screw that held the washer in completely crumbled! I thought I was in big trouble! But I picked away all the rubber, and the screw was still solid where the washer protected it. I was able to unscrew the stub of a screw. I brought the part to the hardware store and found a matching brass screw and washer and fixed it. I was shocked that a brass screw would just crumble!
I've had the same thing happen. It's kind of scary because you think it's going to be big trouble. If there is enough of a stub, you can grab it with vice grips and turn it out.
I've been looking for a video on this forever! Great video
It's my pleasure to help!
Vampliers, sold by Amazon and others, are a line of precision screw extraction pliers designed to easily remove difficult screws, broken-off nails or bolts, and things like old nails coming up in a stair step or wooden floor. It’s cheaper to have the right tool than it is to replace a valve or make a trip to the hardware store.
P.S. Engineer brand Screw Extractor Pliers, models PZ55 and PZ58 and others, are made in Japan by the same company that makes Vampliers, and are also sold by Amazon, but at generally lower prices. Japanese tool lines include designs for smaller hands, and some models of these wonderful pliers are less expensive than others, simply because they are smaller. Pick a size that fits your hand - you’ll be glad you did.
ugh. Wish I'd seen your comment before I mangled the nut getting it off. Hard time finding replacement.
What if i can’t get to the water supply valve since I’m in an apartment? Trying to install a bidet (not totally sure I’m allowed or i would just call landlord). Need a way to shutoff toilet supply but the 1/4 turn valve installed does not impact flow at all for some reason regardless of what way it turns.
Sounds like the 1/4 turn valve is not working. I'd think your landlord should be responsible to fix/replace the valve.
@@Know-How-Now you are correct. I ended up calling and they have a replacement valve on order. Frustrating situation but at least itll be fixed soon. Im honestly surprised and thankful i havnt had a reason to shut off the water previously since I wouldn't have been able to in the first place lol
Good to hear the valve is going to be fixed. It's not a bad idea to test shut off valves (I turn my twice a year so they don't get stuck), especially the main shut off valve. Imagine having a leak and no being quickly able to turn the water off.
THANK YOU!!!! The guy at Lowes told me "Nope, it's way too old to fix, ya gotta replace the whole entire fitting." Why no sir, I do not! Yay!
You are welcome. There are more videos on the channel about repairing these valves. I think I have a link to a playlist in the box below the video or maybe a link in a comment pinned at the top of the comments.
I would have thought there would be a gasket between the valve stem and the body at final install ?
Thank you so much! I had a flooded mess all over my kitchen and this helped me fix it. Xoxoxo!
You are welcome, it's my pleasure to help.
Hi what would you suggest if the water main valve failed? How should it be replaced? Do I call the water company and ask them to shut off the valve at the street?
Hi Jae. You'll have to do a little detective work. I would recommend testing the curb stop prior to scheduling replacing/repairing the main shut off inside your home.(I don't know what you have, though there should be some sort of shut off in the yard close to the street.) Make sure it turns and does shut off the water to your home. You may or may not be responsible for the maint/repair of the curb stop. You may not be allowed to turn the valve. Check with your water company. When I replaced my main shut off valve, I had to pay money up front to the water company and schedule a time and date to have them close the valve. I am not supposed to turn the curb stop, though I have to pay to repair it if it is broken. The water company did come out and test the valve for free.
@@Know-How-Now Usually street shut offs are 3 feet down below the frost line. They require a special 5 sided socket to open the access cover.
Thanks for contributing, I didn't know how far below the frost line. I could get the cover off (after a hunt with a screw driver, the cover had grass over it.), but my shut off valve was an odd size, a plumber friend's socket did not fit.
If you can find an identical new valve, take the “guts”out of the new one and place in the old valve. Fixed without soldering. You can use this trick on many repairs. Bath vent fan is my favorite change out the guts project.
Thanks for taking the time to write the helpful comment. If you can't buy an identical valve and the one that needs to be replaced is in a spot that's hard to access to solder. You likely have an identical valve somewhere else in your home that is easy to replace via soldering. Replace the easy access valve with a new one and transfer the "guts" to the one that is difficult to replace. I also have a video that shows how to rebuild valves. You may be able to rehab the valve and use it at another location. th-cam.com/video/g8ORORWGsWw/w-d-xo.html
Any ideas where to find replacements? I've looked everywhere and cannot find it. The nut to tighten it back up is stripped. =(
If you are sure just the nut is stripped and it's a newer valve you may be able to buy a new valve and steal the nut off of it. Make sure you can get the handle off too.
Thanks @@Know-How-Now
What about a tub shut off that is new and never used?????
you said that if the taps in the house don't stop flowing your curbstop is also bad. Shouldn't it be the house shut off that is bad in this case ?
Hi Ann, I just watched the beginning of the video. I don't mention the curb stop, so I'm kind of confused about your question. The curb stop is the valve that shuts the water off to the main water supply shut off valve in your home. I am closing the main supply valve to the house. If you close that valve and water continues to flow at your fixtures, then the main shut off valve is not working. Hopefully I have answered your question.
This is an old video so idk if you will see this but if you do & you can help please let me know. My issue is that my valve wont stop spinning when i try to clothes i spun it for 5 minutes it just kept spinning & spinning
It's likely broken. You'll have to replace the valve or you can try to find a matching stem and replace that part.
Great video, thanks! Would it pay to put a little anti-seize on the screw or would that damage the washer.
You are welcome. My experience is that the screw head that holds the washer in place deteriorates and crumbles. I would be wary of putting anti-seize into a drinking water supply, though it would be highly diluted. Maybe you could put a very small piece of plumbers tape on the threads.
Know How Now You're right about the anti-seize, what was I thinking, lol. Thanks for responding!
0:40 What if the valve you are trying to repair IS the main valve. What should I do if the main valve is not working properly?
It's likely you'll have to have your water supplier turn the water off at the curb stop, even if you have the tool, some water suppliers don't allow you to turn the valve. I had to pay a fee to have mine turned off when I replaced my main shut off valve. I have a video that may interest you: th-cam.com/video/JzvRTo9ve0k/w-d-xo.html
Know How Now Wow
Dry ice wrapped around the main in a towel. The water freezes unless the valve allows a trickle to pass.
So no Teflon tape needed when reinstalling valve?
No, there should be a gasket/washer making that seal. You only need to use Teflon tape on a connection that doesn't have some sort of gasket/washer to make the seal.
A good point would be to find a screw replacement before you start this removal so your water isn't shut off for two to three hours while you go search for a screw. So are these screws a common replacement that any hardware store attendant would know what your talking about? Or do you really have to take the screw with you to the store?And if I am making this trip to the hardware store could I just buy a replacement valve assembly that would screw into my existing valve?
In the past I've found packets of the screws at Home Depot. If the screw has been in there a long time they sometimes just crumble apart. It's hit or miss at the big box stores of having someone who is knowledgeable. If you have a plumbing supply house they are usually pretty good. Valves don't have a standard, so the chances of finding another identical valve is not good, especially if it's older. check out this link for home depot: www.homedepot.com/p/DANCO-Flat-Faucet-Washers-and-Screws-Assortment-14-Piece-80790/203193510
Our valve outside is doing the exact same thing, so our sprinklers are leaking. Does this work for the outside valve also?
If the shut off valve looks similar to the one in the video (A handle that you turn multiple times.) , then it is likely that it has a rubber washer on the end of the valve stem that can be replaced.
Short and to the point. I like it.
Thanks for the feedback, Mario. I do my best to keep the videos brief, but full of good content. Have a great day.
@@Know-How-Now well you are doing a great job. Wish you all the best!
I have a sprinkler valve which is running free in both directions and there is no water flowing in the sprinkler system. Any tips on how to fix it ? BTW very clear and no-nonsense videos. Thanks !
I don't have any experience with home sprinkler valves. We get plenty of rain here (too much this summer) so there is no need for sprinklers here. Sorry I can't help you with that problem. Thanks for the compliment on the videos. I try to make them informative & as short as possible.
@@Know-How-Now Thanks. Actually the valve head looks exactly same as one shown in this video. Valve head is moving freely i.e. neither shutting off nor opening the valve.
It sounds like the stem is broken and the valve is in the closed position.
@@Know-How-Now Is there a way to replace the stem ? Thank you.
Do you know if the valve was stuck and broke when turned? If it is stuck & broken, then I doubt that it can be fixed. If you could buy an identical valve you could swap out the stem, but if it's stuck inside you may not be able to get it unstuck.
This is great, why did you stop making videos? Any chance you were a Navy HT ? :)
Hi Frederick, I've been a bit bogged down taking care of things that keep popping up that have to get to the top of the to do list lately. There are still new videos being posted, though not as many as I would like. After I clear a few more things out of the way, my goal is to post one new one per week. I was in the Army and repaired Hawk Radars 24J (electronic tech).
Good video👍 she was very thorough!
Thanks for the compliment, Jesse. Please consider supporting the channel and subscribe. Sadly, TH-cam often does not reward short and to the point videos (There is more money to be made the longer you watch). The more subscribers the channel has and complete views of it's videos will push these videos to top of the search list. Any help is appreciated.
Great, easy-to-understand video, keep up the good work!
Thanks for the compliment, I do my best to make quality videos.
I thought my HW valve handle wasn't shutting off the supply, though it turned like it should and felt normal...Turns out it was the valve to the dishwasher, lol!
You might want to mention the possibility.
1:51 - "If it is hard to loosen, use another wrench to hold onto the valve body while you are turning the nut." Where is the valve body? Is it that "T" intersection to the left of the wrench? I don't see where I would put a wrench there. Do you mean put a wrench to the right of the first wrench, on the packing nut? Thanks!
The valve body is the hollow "T" into which the valve stem and handle screw into. The concept is to hold onto the body so that you are not putting stress onto the joints while trying to remove the stem/handle. You could break a joint or cause a leak.
@@Know-How-Now Thank you for the clarification! :) I've got a washer shut off that hasn't been turned in 25 years and bracing for the worst....
@@squirrelattackspidy Best wishes. Be patient and you might be able to work it loose. I had a seat post that was stuck in a bike frame. I treated it with PB Blaster a couple of times a day and gave the post some taps with a hammer. It took 3 days of this treatment until I could finally break it loose.
Looks like I might need to call a plumber on this one. This is in the basement with no drains . Cold line is going through a hot water heater and then a furnace before getting to the shut off for the washer. Both hot and cold shut offs are stuck, even after scraping off the mineral buildup and three days of liquid wrench. The backup shutoffs between the furnace and washer are also frozen and covered in mineral build up. Wondering if even the water main in the basement is going to turn. Plumber is going to make his mortgage payment on this call.
Best wishes. I turn open and close (exercise) all my valves 2 times a year to prevent them from ceasing up.
thanks for this vid...I was worried I would have to call a plumber since my outside water shutoff valve was not turning off the outside water. The shutoff valve is in a very tight spot in my basement so I was worried I would have to call a plumber to solder a new valve!
You are welcome. It's great to hear that you were able to fix the valve.
I keep spinning mine to the right and doesn't ever stop, its at the top, so I could barely reach and kind of see it, only from its bottom and I'm 5'11. What does this mean? Is it broken or something?
It sounds like it is broken :(
Broken gate valve, replace it.
J'adore vs tutoriel sont tré clair et transparent. Bravo. Chapeau
Merci pour les compliments.
Well done video, clear and to the point. Thank you.
You are welcome, thanks for the compliment.
Hi five lady! Impressive!
After looking everywhere for this type of valve replacement I found your video. I have stop & waste valve and
I want to replace with it with t-adapter, so I can hook up a branch water line. Do you think it will work?
It's hard to give an accurate answer without knowing all the details, it doesn't sound like a bad plan.
Teflon tape on valve body threads wrapped in "the direction of..." the threads would have been a nice touch...
Hit my bonnet nut with every wrench I had, PB blaster, hammer taps and my impact gun with no success. Ended up just tightening the gland nut as much as I could and that seemed to work.
what is the problem if you turn the valve handle either way and it just keeps turning and never stops?
It sounds like the stem is broken. Perhaps it was stuck, forced and then broken. If they the type of valve shown in the video are not periodically turned, they can become stuck.
Thanks for posting, resolved my problem
You are welcome, Steven.
Damn thing breaks every 3 to 5 years for me. I got so tired of replacing I just buy compression tight valves. This video will save me some money.