4 ways to loosen a stuck shut off valve fast!
Did you ever get stuck with a shut off valve at home or at the office? Have you tried several times to loosen the jammed shut off valve only to fail miserably? If you have tried using brute force methods, then I am writing this article for you. I have gathered some very useful tips that should help you loosen a stuck shut off valve without causing damage to the system. Follow these simple steps carefully and you will find out how to open the shut off valve easily (and safely).
Shut off valves are found everywhere from homes to offices to factories. They help prevent leaks and spills by stopping the flow of water inside pipes. Shut off valves also stop the flow of water into toilets, washing machines, dishwashers and sinks. Unfortunately, they sometimes become stuck closed and require forceful attempts to open them.
Here are four ways to loosen stuck shut off valves:
1) Use a wrench
A good way to loosen a stuck shut off is with a wrench. Wrenches come in many sizes and shapes. You can use one that has an adjustable handle so you don’t need to hold it tightly when tightening. Some wrenches even have handles made specifically for loosening stuck shut offs.
2) Use a pipe cutter
Another way to loosen a stuck close is to cut through the pipe itself. This method works best if the pipe is not too hard. A pipe cutter is a tool used to make cuts in metal piping. It usually consists of two blades attached to a handle. Using a pipe cutter, you can cut through the pipe and remove the stuck shut off valve.
3) Use a hammer
If all else fails, you may be able to loosen a stuck shutoff valve with a hammer. To do this, first take your time and try to figure out what size hammer would work best. Then, hit the shut off valve as hard as you can with the hammer. The idea here is to break the seal on the stuck shut off valve and allow the water pressure to push it open.
4) Try heat
If none of the above methods work, you might want to consider heating up the area around the shut off valve. This could cause the stuck shut off valve to pop open. However, there are risks involved with heating up the area around a shut off valve. For instance, if you accidentally turn on the hot water while trying to loosen a stuck shut-off valve, you could burn yourself. Also, if you leave the shut off valve turned on for too long, the water could overheat and burst the pipes.
So, before you attempt any of the above methods, check with a plumber to see if he/she can help you.
What are the most common plumbing mistakes one makes?
Plumbing problems are often caused by people who don’t know how to fix their own plumbing issues. Here are some common plumbing problems that homeowners face every day:
Using drain cleaners as a first choice
Drain cleaning products are designed to clean clogged drains. They contain chemicals that dissolve things like hair, soap scum, grease and other debris that build up in drains. Drain cleaners are sold in different types of containers such as squeeze bottles, aerosol cans or plastic bags. But using a drain cleaner as a first option to unclog a clogged drain is not recommended because these chemical substances can damage the pipes and lead to more serious plumbing issues.
Not replacing old faucets and fixtures
Fixtures such as faucets and shower heads are meant to last for years. If you notice that your faucet or fixture is leaking or doesn’t function properly, then it’s probably time to replace it. Old faucets and fixtures will eventually wear out and develop leaks. So, if you notice that your fixture is leaking or isn’t working correctly, then it’d be better to get a new one instead of spending money repairing it.
Overlooking small repairs
Small plumbing problems are easy to overlook. But they can quickly become big ones. So, if you spot something wrong with your home’s plumbing system, then it’ll be important to address them right away. Don’t wait until the problem becomes bigger than it already is. Otherwise, you won’t have much luck fixing it.
Tackling a plumbing job without spare parts
Spare parts should always accompany any repair project. Without them, you’re likely to make costly errors. So, if you plan to tackle a plumbing project, then make sure you bring along spares. You never know when you’ll need them.
Ignoring signs of a leaky pipe
Leaky pipes are usually an indication of a larger issue. So, if you see that your pipes are leaking, then it’s important to call a professional immediately. A leaky pipe may indicate a damaged sewer line, broken main line or even a cracked foundation wall.
If you think that your home has a leaky pipe, then you should contact a licensed plumber. He/she will inspect your home thoroughly and determine whether the leak is coming from inside or outside. Once this is done, he/she will recommend what needs to be done to stop the leak.
Not turning off the water
Turning off the water supply at the source is very important. It prevents water from going down the drain and into the sewage system. If you forget to do so, then you risk flooding your basement.
Using too much muscle on a stuck shut off valve
You shouldn’t use excessive force when trying to open a stuck shut off valve. Doing so could cause severe injury to yourself and damage your property. Instead, try gently twisting the handle clockwise to loosen it. Then, turn counter-clockwise to close it again.
Sweating copper pipes with water in the line
Copper pipes are prone to sweating. This happens when there’s excess water in the line. To prevent this from happening, you should keep your house dry. Also, avoid letting cold air enter through cracks around windows and doors. These areas are often where moisture collects.
Plumbing emergencies happen all the time. That’s why it’s essential to prepare yourself by learning how to fix minor issues before they grow into major ones. By following these tips, you’ll save both time and money.
Conclusion
Plumbing is essential to every household. However, it’s also a complicated subject. That’s why we’ve provided you with some tips above. Hopefully, they’ll help you avoid common mistakes.