Main Water Shut Off Valve Leaking From Stem

So if there is a leak at the valve stem it most likely means the valve is not shut off all the way.

Main water shut off valve leaking from stem.

When you tighten the packing nut on your main water shut off valve it binds down the packing material against the washer to stop any water from getting through. It s not uncommon for a brand new shut off valve to leak around the handle area whenever you turn it on. Is probably occurring around the water valve stem. Required tools for this project.

Place a bucket or a thick towel on the floor under the leaky valve just in case some residual water leaks out during work. If you have a water leak or just need to turn off the water in your home for remodeling or repairs you must turn off your water upstream at some point. The first thing you should do to stop the leak is to tighten the packing nut. A water shut off valve leaking can make a mess and waste water.

For instance a standard stop and waste valve has three other washers that can leak in addition to the washer that shuts the water off. Over time though this packing material can form a solid seal because it hardens or disintegrates which causes the valve to leak. Step 3 remove the screw in the center of the shutoff valve handle using a screwdriver. Locate and shut off water supply to the line that feeds the leaking valve.

If the valve leak persists turn off the main water shutoff valve then disconnect the valve and replace it. Water shut off valves can also leak at various points on the valve. Turn on all the faucets and flush all the toilets associated with the main shutoff valve to empty the pipes of water. In the old days fiber was packed tightly around the stem hence the name.

This turns off water to the entire house even outside spigots. Avoid gumming up the inside of the shutoff valve. Don t use any pipe dope or plastic tape on the valve stem s threads. In all homes you can shut off the water at the main water cut off valve.

Open a faucet to relieve back pressure on water line. Not sure if this is your problem. This guide reviews the types of water shut off valves how they are used and where to find them inside and outside your home. Tighten the packing nut the packing nut is responsible for making a watertight seal where the valve stem meets the water line.

The water valve stem passes through a packing nut and washer which provide a watertight seal.