When a valve has a general operational problem, simple maintenance tasks can be very challenging because the flawed mechanisms will impact efficiency. However, by following a few easy steps, you can continue to operate a valve after environmental elements build up on the metal hardware.

General Maintenance Strategies

By using a wrench and elbow grease, you can repair a valve that doesn’t rotate properly. Strategic prep is required before tackling a maintenance project using traditional tools, so you’ll need to visit the main water valve to shut off the water that runs to the house. While the water is off, gradually spray a protective solution on the rusty valve in the home. A proper oil should have a low viscosity because a product that’s very thick won’t access narrow nooks and crannies where rust typically generates on a valve.

After the valve is thoroughly coated, strategically grip the metal housing with a wrench. Then, gradually tap the valve with a mallet. While using the mallet, don’t smash the valve intensely because this maintenance tactic may damage the hardware.

Prevention Tactics

Most valves develop mechanical issues when they’re not operated on a regular basis. Many things can impact the mechanisms on a valve over time, such as rust and hard water. In some cases, debris can also cause operational problems by blocking zones around a valve. Depending on the conditions in an environment, debris and thick dirt can lodge in spaces where key hardware must rotate. The easiest way to prevent these problems is by operating each valve in low traffic areas while seasonal maintenance procedures are implemented.

These strategies can help you tackle plumbing problems that involve defective valves. General tactics are very effective because many professional crews use wrenches and greases during prv testing California projects.