Stuck valve or am I doing this wrong?

19 years ago

Hi

When I bought this house last summer, I had to replace a section of galvanized pipe to keep the insurance company happy.

As part of the upgrade, the plumber installed this valve (see below) leading to the section that goes to the outside hose faucet.

When I just went to turn on the water, the valve refuses to budge. It doesn't even move a little. It's like something is stuck in the mechanism or something, preventing ANY movement.

As part of the valve, you see that little thumbscrew there on the right. No idea what that's for. Below it is an arrow pointing to the right. When I turned it, I heard a little hiss, like gas escaping. When I keep turning it, the screw comes right out and a little bit of water drips out. So I guess I better leave that alone, eh?

Anyway, I can't imagine this thing is seized up after less than a year. It certainly worked last fall, when I turned the water off. There was no water in the pipe and there is no visible damage to any part of the surrounding pipes.

Is there a trick to this thing, or do I call the plumber?

Chris

Sort by:Oldest

Comments (2)

rjoh878646
19 years ago
It looks like a ball valve. Try a pair of pliers on it. if it still won't move don't force it. The little thumbscrew is a drain for the line on that side of the valve.
geniere
19 years ago
Chris "ÂAs part of the valve, you see that little thumbscrew there on the rightÂ"

ThatÂs a bleeder valve and is used to drain water from the hose faucet. When the weather turns cold, close the main valve and open the bleeder and outside faucet (hose bib) to drain the water so it doesnÂt freeze and burst the pipe.

Chris "ÂWhen I just went to turn on the water, the valve refuses to budge Â"

Below the knob you are trying to turn is a packing nut that can be loosened. The nut squeezes the rubber seal (packing in the old days) around the valve stem. It may be too tight. Loosen it only one or two turns or you will be sorry. A little leak is ok while you try to open the valve. After your done, tighten the nut until leak stops.

You will not be able to replace the valve yourself if itÂs bad because your plumber used PEX tubing and crimp rings to install it. ItÂs good stuff but requires special tools.
Related Professionals
Mount Vernon General Contractors · Ardmore General Contractors · Fergus Falls General Contractors · Del Rio General Contractors · Concord Home Remodeling · Sugar Land Home Remodeling · Worcester Home Remodeling · Traverse City Home Remodeling · Palm Desert Home Remodeling · Washington Bathroom Remodelers · Florence Bathroom Remodelers · Annapolis Bathroom Remodelers · Corpus Christi Bathroom Remodelers · Anniston Bathroom Remodelers · Santa Fe Bathroom Remodelers