Projects

Installing Shutoff Valves and Supply Tubes

Project Overview

Shutoff valves let you turn off the water near your fixtures rather than shutting off water to the entire house. They attach by soldering, threading, or compression fittings. Compression fittings are easy to install and don't require pipe dope or compound—a metal sleeve makes the fitting watertight, as long as it's properly installed. Turn off the water before you start. Open the faucet you're working on and another one somewhere below it in the house so that the water will drain from the line.

Step 1

DISCONNECT THE SUPPLY PIPE

Disconnect the supply pipe. Turn off the main water supply. Unscrew the supply pipe at the wall. If it's soldered in place, cut with a mini-pipe tubing cutter or, as a last resort, a minihacksaw. (Cut carefully. If the tube is out of round, the compression fitting will leak.) Leave enough room between the escutcheon plate and the cut to install the fitting. Deburr the pipe with emery cloth. Slide the compression nut over the supply pipe as far back as possible.

Step 2

PUT COMPRESSION RING OVER END OF SUPPLY

Place the compression ring over the end of the supply pipe. The ring should completely cover the end of the supply pipe. Thread the compression valve into the compression nut. The valve should slide squarely and snugly over the ring. Hand-tighten. If the nut doesn't turn easily, add a tiny drop of oil to the threads. Don't use pipe compound; the fitting doesn't require it, and it can actually make the fitting leak.

Step 3

TIGHTEN COMPRESSION VALVE TO NUT

Tighten (but don't overtighten) the compression valve to the nut. Use one wrench to hold back the valve and keep it square and another to turn the nut. Follow the same procedure you used to install the valve to attach the supply lines. Turn the water on briefly (and let it flow into a bucket) to flush the lines before installing any new fixtures.

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Project Details

Skill Level: Beginner

Time: 1 hour

Before you start, read this »

Due to differing conditions, tools, and individual skills, The Home Depot® assumes no responsibility for any damages, injuries suffered, or losses incurred as a result of attempting to replicate any of the home improvement ideas portrayed in this website Before beginning any home improvement project, review it thoroughly to ensure you or your contractor can finish the project and if any doubts or questions remain, consult local experts or authorities. Because codes and regulations vary greatly, you always should check with authorities to ensure that your project complies with all applicable local codes and regulations. Always read and observe all of the safety precautions provided by any tool or equipment manufacturer, and follow all accepted safety procedures.

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