Replacing inside water shutoff valves
#1
06-17-17, 11:12 AM
Replacing inside water shutoff valves
Got an awful setup (great how they ran the gas pipe for the water heater right on top of the water meter, huh?), currently, and I want to replace the two old, adjacent valves. I'm going to use a ball valve as the water enters from the floor. Do you recommend the ones with the bleed valve or is that unnecessary? Also, I've seen it mentioned that there should be a shutoff on either side of the meter. I do have one for the pipe entering the water heater, but there isn't one directly after the meter itself. What's the correct approach? Finally, any reason to avoid using Sharkbite valves for the main shutoff? Pipes are 1/2". Photo attached. Thanks! 
#2
06-17-17, 12:55 PM
Member
Two valves to isolate is always good, but a water meter is pretty robust so personally I would not add secondary valve.
Bleed valves inside are not needed.
Do not use shark bites, I understand their appeal but they are a simple quick connect type fitting and you never want any fitting to let loose on a water supply.
I use them as temp fitting, but would never, ever, use them as a replacement for a soldered or threaded fitting.
Bleed valves inside are not needed.
Do not use shark bites, I understand their appeal but they are a simple quick connect type fitting and you never want any fitting to let loose on a water supply.
I use them as temp fitting, but would never, ever, use them as a replacement for a soldered or threaded fitting.
#3
06-18-17, 05:06 AM
Member
Shark Bites are approved for behind walls and can be relied on. BUT, I agree with Marq1. I would use them in exposed areas but not behind walls.
Using two valves on either side of meter is a good idea. If you have a need to work on inside piping the bleed valve will allow you to drain the inside piping and not have to shut off service to the house. If you're going through a major plumbing job then now is the time to spend the extra and do it up to give you the most flexibility.
Using two valves on either side of meter is a good idea. If you have a need to work on inside piping the bleed valve will allow you to drain the inside piping and not have to shut off service to the house. If you're going through a major plumbing job then now is the time to spend the extra and do it up to give you the most flexibility.
#4
06-19-17, 08:14 AM
Thanks, and a follow-up question
Thanks for the helpful comments. I'll likely just sweat the new valves on - feels less risky for a main shutoff. Could use some recommendations on parts to replace that whole ugly section (from the 3/4" threaded pipe on the meter, down to below the two shutoffs). How would you experts do it, parts-wise? I'll be replacing the old water heater shutoff and will probably add the recommended shutoff after the meter. Thinking about using Sharkbites for those. Thanks again for your advice!
