Plumbing in the Home/Shut-off valve

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Expert: Dana Bostick - 11/8/2009


Question

Shut-off Valve
My shut-off valve to the toilet does not work. When it is turned off, it starts to leak so I think my best best is just to replace it. There is a nut to the valve from the toilet but the supply line to the valve is plastic and there is no nut to unscrew. There is simply some type of compression ring on it. How is this connected and how do I get it off to remove the valve? Once it's off, what is the method to get a new one on? Do I need a special tool? Can I put on one of those ferrules with a nut? What about those new push on quarter turn valves? I am a novice so need something easy and simple but my initial problem is determining how the valve is connected to the supply line.  

Answer
Hi Steve,
You have PEX or some other type of plastic piping. These valves are crimped on using a compression ring as you said. Difficult to replace without the right tools and know how. I don't recommend you tackling this. You may be able to stop the leak by just tightening the packing gland nut under the handle of the stop. This will tighten the packing around the stem.
Best,
Dana

Dana Bostick

Expertise

Pretty much any residential plumbing questions. For "item specific" details such as a specific model of fixture, I will need to research and there may not be any useful information available. Note: I live and work in Southern California. We do not, as a rule, use hot water or steam heating systems, oil fired boilers or private water wells so my knowledge in those areas is pretty limited. There are others here on AllExerts that can probably answer those questions better.

Experience

Retired Licensed General Contractor with Plumbing, HVAC and Electrical sub-licenses. Active Certified InterNachi Home Inspector and Infrared Thermographer

Organizations
InterNachi

Publications
SearchWarp, Article Alley, www.DIYHomeInspection.blogspot.com, ActiveRain.com "Rain Maker",

Education/Credentials
30 years in the trades, Licensed General Contractor, Certified Infrared Thermographer

Awards and Honors
InterNachi Certified Property Inspector, Listed FHA Fee Inspector, HUD Mobile Home Inspector

Past/Present Clients
Home buyers, sellers and owners, Investors, Commercial roofing companies (infrared roof scans for moisture intrusion)

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