When you hear the sound of running water where it shouldn’t be originating from, you may end up worrying. No matter if you’re a homeowner or renter, dealing with a broken plumbing shutoff valve can cause major damage and disruption to your daily life.

And while it may seem like a daunting task to tackle, don’t worry – this post will guide you through what to do when this happens in order to make sure that the issue is properly fixed in no time!

Need help with your emergency plumbing? Consider hiring a professional to help you out.

What is a plumbing shutoff valve and what does it do?

A plumbing shutoff valve is an important part of any home’s plumbing system. It regulates the flow of water coming in and out of your household, allowing you to control the amount of water that flows through each individual fixture or appliance.

This piece of equipment also helps protect against potential flooding by providing an emergency shutoff feature in case there are any leaks or other issues.

The most common time to use a plumbing shutoff valve is when you need to turn off the water supply for maintenance or repairs in your home. It’s important that you familiarize yourself with the location of your shutoff valves so that you can quickly and easily turn off the water supply in an emergency situation.

Understanding the anatomy of a shutoff valve is also important. Generally, there are two types of shutoff valves – gate and ball valves. Gate valves have a wheel-like handle that you can turn to open or close the water flow. Ball valves have a lever handle and work using similar principles as gate valves.

Both types of valves are designed to be opened or closed all the way, so ensure you turn the handle until it is firmly in either the open or closed position.

The consequences of not having a functioning shutoff valve in your home’s plumbing system

If your plumbing shutoff valve is not properly functioning or if it has broken, it can lead to a number of consequences.

The most serious consequence is the possibility of flooding in your home, which can cause extensive damage. Additionally, without an effective way to regulate the water supply, you may find yourself dealing with water pressure issues that can lead to leaks and other plumbing problems.

It’s also important to note that without a functioning shutoff valve, you may not be able to repair or replace fixtures in your home as needed. This can become extremely costly over time if the issue is not properly addressed.

Finally, it’s important to keep in mind that having a broken shutoff valve can also lead to safety issues, as it is a key component in preventing water from entering your home in the event of an emergency.

How to know if your shutoff valve is broken and needs to be fixed or replaced

If you notice the valve isn’t shutting off water when in the “off” position, then it could be a sign that your shutoff valve is broken and needs to be fixed or replaced. Additionally, if you try to turn on the water from the source and it doesn’t come out of any of the fixtures/appliances, it could also be a sign that the valve isn’t functioning correctly.

Other signs of a broken shutoff valve include rattling noises, leaking water around the handle or stem, and a weak/inconsistent stream of water coming out of the tap even when it’s open all the way. In these cases, you’ll most likely need to call a plumbing repair in Akron, OH to help you fix the issue.

How to prevent a plumbing shutoff valve breaking

One of the best ways to prevent your plumbing shutoff valve from breaking is by regularly checking it for signs of wear and tear. Look out for any visible damage, such as rust or corrosion, and make sure that the handle moves easily and securely when you turn it on and off.

It’s also important to periodically inspect the valve for leaks, which can be caused by worn washers or loose connections. If you do find any leaks, it’s best to call a plumber right away so that the issue can be addressed before it causes further damage.

Finally, make sure to always turn off your shutoff valve completely when performing any repairs or maintenance in your home. This will ensure that no water enters the area while you’re working and can help to avoid potential flooding.

Conclusion

Dealing with a broken plumbing shutoff valve isn’t an ideal situation, but the good news is that it’s usually something that can be fixed relatively easily if you tackle the issue promptly. Just remember to always familiarize yourself with the location of your shutoff valves and inspect them regularly for signs of wear and tear in order to avoid any future problems.

If you do end up dealing with a broken shutoff valve, don’t hesitate to call a licensed plumber for assistance in order to get the issue resolved quickly and safely.