Plumbing Valve Repair Greenfield

Your plumbing valves could be on the brink of repair if you notice any of the following: they leak; they make strange noises when activated; they're hard to turn; or they're making yet another entry in the great library of Undeniably Awful Plumbing Noises. And if your water pressure has suddenly dropped and you don't live anywhere near a construction site, it's time to give your valves more than a cursory glance. Water pooling at the base of a valve—that's a sign you've got a problem. Valve issues aren't something to ignore; they're the kind of thing that can lead to big, expensive remodels if you let problems fester.

Homes most commonly have four types of plumbing valves: gate, ball, globe, and check valves. Turning off the water supply in a house is usually accomplished by using a gate valve. To addresses repair needs associated with the other three valve types, it's beneficial to understand their configurations and how they work. For instance, precise control of water flow can be achieved using a ball valve. You can also use a globe valve for this purpose, but it's a less efficient option. A check valve is used in plumbing to prevent backflow. Once you understand the basics, you'll be better equipped to handle any necessary plumbing repairs associated with these valve types.

Although minor plumbing valve repairs may be within the capabilities of some homeowners, it is vital to know when to stop and call in a pro. Two of the simplest plumbing repairs you can make—dealing with a loose handle and a minor buildup—don't even really involve the valve itself, and they can be accomplished effectively with the right tools and guidance. If you have plumbing valves that need replacing, serious leaks to fix, or more complex issues at hand, this isn't the time to DIY. You need a licensed pro who can ensure the repairs are done right and rule out the possibility of a do-over.

The fundamental implements of plumbing valve repair consist of an adjustable wrench, a pipe wrench, pliers, and various types of screwdrivers. A pipe cutter may also be necessary, should your valve issues necessitate repairs to the piping. Similarly, you'd want to have solder or some sort of sealant on hand to ensure that your connection is watertight, post-repair. A bucket is useful for managing any water that might spill during the undertaking, and safety gear—gloves and goggles—can protect you from accidents that might occur while you're removing a valve that's stuck due to mineral buildup.

Preventing plumbing valve problems starts with maintenance. You should regularly check your valves for any indication that they might be failing—like unusual noises, vibrations, or temperatures—and make sure they're not leaking. Keeping your plumbing system clean and free from buildup can help your pipes and their parts last longer. And even though flushing your plumbing system can remove debris that might interfere with valve operation, using a professional is probably the best way to do this.

When a plumbing valve is discovered to be leaking, the first thing to do is turn off the water supply. This fundamental step halts the flow of water and stops any further damage. With the water now at a standstill, try slight adjustments to the valve. Many leaks occur because the assembly is simply too loose, and a few gentle turns of the wrench will send the water packing right back into the pipes. If your valve continues to dribble after you've given it a good talking-to, it may be time to remove it and install a fresh valve in its place.

It is crucial to repair a faulty plumbing valve as soon as possible. It can be tempting to put off a simple plumbing repair, but the main reason why so many homeowners neglect it is that they don't see (or hear) any clear evidence that they should be fixing it now. The valve isn't doing its job if it's letting water escape instead of controlling its flow; and that, of course, presents a real risk of water damage to the house and the pipeline itself—and a risk of mold if the moisture isn't swiftly dealt with.

Repairing a plumbing valve can be a hit-or-miss job where the price you pay depends on how badly the valve is damaged, how easy or difficult the valve is to work with, and how many parts are needed to bring the valve back to a like-new condition. If you have an average plumbing problem with an average valve, you're looking at paying anywhere from $50 to $150 for a fix. However, if you have a particularly troublesome valve or a valve that isn't commonly used (like a microwave oven shutoff), you might be forking over $200 or more to get it working again.

To replace a plumbing valve, first cut the water supply and drain the plumbing system. This should take only a few minutes, but it is essential to avoid a watery mess during the actual work. Next, remove the old valve by first turning loose any nuts or bolts that hold it in place. If the valve is really stubborn, you can use a pipe cutter to cut it out, though this will take a bit longer. With the old valve out, the new valve is ready to be put in. Make sure all connections are secure and sealed using either plumber's tape or a suitable sealant, and then turn the water supply back on to test the new valve.

Ensuring that repairs to valves are done efficiently and to a high standard can minimize future problems and save you money. The experience and expertise of professional plumbers enable them to quickly find the underlying cause of valve trouble and apply effective solutions. They also have the specialized tools and equipment to safely and effectively handle complex repairs. Moreover, hiring a certified plumber ensures that work will be done according to local plumbing codes and that the work will be guaranteed.