Plumbing valves are an important part of a functioning home plumbing system. In fact, they’re often the key to whether you have running water or not. As a homeowner, it’s important to know where all the plumbing valves are in your home. You should also know how to check them so you can recognize when they may need to be repaired or replaced by some of the best plumbers in Houston.
Replacing faulty plumbing valves is an essential part of keeping a plumbing system working properly. Leaks are the most common problem caused by faulty valves, and can lead to the headache of dealing with unexpected water damage. Plus, unsuspected leaks can impact your utility bills, adding up to a higher water bill for you later.
If you need plumbing repairs, call on the best plumber in Houston for efficient, quality service—Santhoff Plumbing.
Plumbing Valves Around Your Home
As homeowners, we rely on our home plumbing system to function properly day in and day out. Plumbing valves may seem insignificant, but they play a crucial role in regulating the flow of water throughout your plumbing system. With proper care and maintenance, high-quality plumbing valves can be a reliable and long-lasting solution to ensure the efficient functioning of your plumbing system.
The standard valves found in your home are fixture shut off valves. These valves are also called stop valves and they control water flow to individual plumbing fixtures. Different types of shut-off valves you may have installed throughout the house can include:
- Ball valves have a small handle that you turn 90 degrees to open or close. These generally last longer than other types of valves, and are less likely to get stuck.
- Gate valves have a small wheel that turns many times, making them slower to get all the way open or closed. They tend to seize up if not used regularly, and can develop leaks over time.
- Compression valves have a plastic stem that tends to break when it’s tightly closed and you try to open it, resulting in a necessary valve replacement.
Valves are located all throughout your home, and there are probably more than you think! You’ll find valves at each of the following locations:
- Bathroom sinks
- Washing machine
- Kitchen sink
- Dishwasher (also under your kitchen sink)
- Utility sink in laundry room
- Toilets
- Hot water tank
Over time, the valves in your plumbing system can become worn and faulty, leading to potential leaks. They could also become corroded, or develop a mineral buildup from Houston’s hard water, preventing them from closing easily in the event of a leak. That’s why it’s crucial to check your plumbing valves on a regular basis, and call in one of Houston’s best plumbers if repairs are needed.
How to Test Plumbing Valves for Every Sink and Toilet
Have you noticed a slow leak under your kitchen or bathroom sink, or heard a strange noise in the water line? It could be due to a faulty valve. To ensure that your plumbing system is working as it should, it’s important to test the valves in your home. Don’t worry – it’s a simple process.
- Turn off the water supply to the fixture you want to test. You may have a panel with individual shut-offs for each area of your home, or you may just have one single water shut-off valve that serves your whole house.
- Open the faucet or flush the toilet to release any remaining water.
- Test the valve by slowly turning the handle counterclockwise. If the valve is stuck and will not move, do not force it, or it will likely break and could start leaking. If the valve is working correctly, no water should come out of the faucet or begin filling up the toilet tank.
By following these step-by-step instructions, you’ll be able to ensure that your plumbing valves are in good working order. We suggest you perform this shut-off test on a weekday early in the week, rather than on a weekend or holiday. That way, if you do find a broken valve you can call us for a quick fix during regular hours, saving you from having to pay for emergency repairs.
Trust an Experienced Professional for Reliable Valve Replacement
When it comes to checking your home’s plumbing, there’s a lot to keep in mind. That’s why it’s always a good idea to call one of Houston’s best plumbers for advice and guidance.
As homeowners, it can be tempting to tackle plumbing issues on our own in an attempt to save money. However, there are certain jobs that should be left to the professionals. One common issue that requires the help of an experienced plumber is replacing a faulty valve. Signs of a faulty valve can include leaks or drips, low water pressure, and strange noises coming from your pipes. Remember, investing in professional help now can save you time and money in the long run.
Quality Service from Best Plumber in Houston
Everything in your home needs regular maintenance, even something as small as plumbing valves. Knowing how to test valves is also key for a well-functioning and safer home. Need help with plumbing valves, or any other major system in your home? Reach out to our team at Santhoff Plumbing for support. An experienced Houston best plumber can further advise on best practices and approaches for maintaining or repairing the plumbing valves in your home. Contact us today with all your residential needs!