Inner workings of a gate valve
When it comes to operating a valve on a main water line observing a few simple rules when opening and closing the valve can prevent damage and unnecessary repair work. Additionally operating a main control valve properly will add years of service life.
Opening a gate valve for a main water line
Click to enlarge
The proper way to open a gate valve is to gently turn the handle counter-clockwise (to the left) without applying excessive force – do not ‘jerk’ the handle. A typical 1″ main control valve for a water line will take about six full turns to fully open.¬† Stop turning as soon as there is any resistance. Turning the handle or stem too far with excessive pressure can cause damage and very often will cause a leak.
Helpful tip: If you meet resistance when trying to open a main control valve loosen the packing nut one turn. The packing nut is on top of the gate valve body. That will allow the stem to move more easily. Always remember to tighten the packing nut after you are finished opening or closing the water to prevent a leak.
Helpful tip #2: If there is no water in the plumbing system when opening the valve always open a faucet on the top floor of the building to let air escape from the plumbing system. Air left in the plumbing can cause ‘water hammer’ and blow apart piping causing considerable damage.
Closing a gate valve for a main water line
Click to enlarge photo
Applying excessive pressure to a gate valve to make it close “all the way” has the effect of bending the gate, its seat or seal and doing permanent damage. Sometimes excessive pressure or jerking the handle will cause the stem to snap – Excessive pressure will cause the valve to break in the closed position and cut off the water supply to the property.
Helpful tip: If a gate will not close the flow of water fully never apply excessive force. Frequently debris or sediment may accumulate inside the body of the gate valve preventing the gate from fully closing. With a faucet open inside the building gently work the valve handle open and closed to flush out the sediment of debris. In most cases this will allow the valve to fully close – Never try to force the gate to close by using excessive pressure or force. If the water flow still will not stop call a licensed plumber – Never risk damage to your property!
 This article is written by David Balkan as a helpful guide for the general public and is the sole property of Joseph L. Balkan Inc.
Joseph L. Balkan, Inc. | Sewer and Water Main Specialists
130-01 Jamaica Avenue Richmond Hill, NY 11418
Phone: (718) 849-0900 | Espanol (718) 943-5720 | Fax: (718) 849-9570
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