Every fixture in your home should have its own shut-off valve. If this isn't the case, it's worth spending the time to install them. When an emergency occurs, or when it's simply time to make a repair, you (and your family) will appreciate the fact that you can do the job without having to turn off the water for all, or even part, of the house, says Sacramento's expert plumber.
Mr. Rooter Tip of the Week
Tip #1 CUT THE PIPE: To install a shut-off valve, turn off the supply to the house (including the hot water line), drain the lines, and then cut the pipe with a tubing cutter where the valve is to be installed.
Tip #2 SWEAT ON A FITTING: Sweat-type fittings require more work than compression fittings but will provide a better seal. Start by sweating either a male or female transition fitting onto the pipe to match the valve.
Tip #3 APPLY TEFLON TAPE: When the fittings are cool to the touch, wrap a couple turns of Teflon tape around the threads. At the same time, wrap a couple turns of Teflon tape around the threaded end of the valve that will accept the flexible supply lines added later. It's a lot easier to do this now, before the valve is in place.
Tip #4 SCREW ON THE SHUT-OFF VALVE: Now you can install the shut-off valve by threading it onto the fitting. Whenever possible, adjust the valve's position so that the control handle is easily accessible.
Tip #5 CONNECT THE SUPPLY LINES: Finally, connect the newly installed shut-off valves to the faucet )or other fixture), using flexibly supply lines that can be bought at your local Sacramento plumbing supply or hardware store.
PLUMBING PRO TIP: Flexible supply lines are available in a variety of preset lengths, complete with captive connecting nuts. When purchasing flexible supply lines, you're better off long than short; any excess can bend to one side. If they are way too long, you can even loop them.