Question:
My reducing valve is leaking at the threaded connection, and there’s a lot of hard water crust. Can I just unthread it, apply new Teflon tape, and tighten it, or do I need to replace the fitting and the valve?
Answer:
You may be able to fix the leak with new Teflon tape, but there are a few things to consider before proceeding. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
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Turn off the water supply: Always start by turning off the water supply to avoid any mess.
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Inspect the valve: If the valve is relatively new and the leak is only at the threaded connection, applying new Teflon tape may solve the problem. However, hard water crust can cause damage to the threads over time, so you may need to replace the fitting if it’s too worn or corroded.
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Remove the valve: Carefully unscrew the valve from the pipe. If the crusty buildup is causing difficulty, you can use a pipe wrench to loosen it, but be gentle to avoid damaging the pipe.
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Clean the threads: Once the valve is off, clean the threads on both the pipe and the valve fitting. Use a wire brush or vinegar to remove any hard water crust. This will ensure a tight seal when you reassemble everything.
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Apply Teflon tape: Apply new Teflon tape to the threads on the pipe. Wrap it around the threads in a clockwise direction, ensuring it’s tightly applied without overlapping too much.
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Reattach the valve: Screw the valve back onto the pipe, making sure to tighten it securely. Avoid overtightening, as this can damage the threads.
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Check for leaks: Turn the water supply back on and check for any leaks. If the leak persists, it may be time to replace the valve or the fitting.
If the threads are too worn or the valve is showing signs of age, replacing both the valve and fitting would be the best solution to prevent further leaks.
For more tips on plumbing repairs and fixing leaks, visit Plumbing 101.
I’m Chris Mayer, writing for Plumbing 101.
