BQuicksilver
Well-known member
- Joined
- Aug 25, 2006
- Messages
- 560
I try to cycle the valves in my home at least once per year, but have a few that are seized this round. Any tips for getting them freed up outside a big pliers wrench/force?
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Getting frozen valves unstuck?
- Thread starter BQuicksilver
- Start date
disston
Well-known member
You are talking water shut off valves for under the sinks, toilet and outdoor hose?
I wouldn't think there's a problem with putting a large pair of pliers on them. They either work or you are going to have to replace them someday.
I wouldn't think there's a problem with putting a large pair of pliers on them. They either work or you are going to have to replace them someday.
OP
BQuicksilver
Well-known member
- Joined
- Aug 25, 2006
- Messages
- 560
Yeah, I typically do crank on them with my pliers wrenches, but was curious if anyone here had another approach.
frank001
Well-known member
I have some outside shutoff ball valves. If they haven't been used for awhile, the handles will bend before the valve moves. A shot of Kroil at the valve stem and waiting for a few minutes works for me.
disston
Well-known member
I'm a big believer in Kroil also but you sort of have to have it on hand. Not easy to find most places. I order mine on line.
When I was in training to be a Handyman, never got the job but I was in training, I was taught to always leave the valves partially turned the other way. If the valve is wanted open then turn all the way out counter clockwise, open, the turn the other way a quarter turn or so. Same with closed valves, turn them out a bit after turning them off. Not enough to cause a drip like you might do when leaving a valve drip to prevent freezing.
When I was in training to be a Handyman, never got the job but I was in training, I was taught to always leave the valves partially turned the other way. If the valve is wanted open then turn all the way out counter clockwise, open, the turn the other way a quarter turn or so. Same with closed valves, turn them out a bit after turning them off. Not enough to cause a drip like you might do when leaving a valve drip to prevent freezing.