How to Replace a Kitchen Sink Shut-Off Valve

To replace a shut off valve in the kitchen sink, you need to locate the valves that turn the water supply on or off. Typically, there are two shut-off valves installed underneath the kitchen sink: one for the hot water supply and the other for the cold. The shut-off valves are easy to spot. Look for two sets of valves that have oval shapes.

After long use or damage, these valves lose their efficiency to shut off the water supply that goes to the kitchen sink. When they turn loose, they become difficult to shut off and they may leak. Replacing a kitchen sink shut-off valve is easier than shutting off a loose valve. Follow the simple steps below for a successful project.

Step 1 - Shut Off the Water Supply

Make sure you shut off the water supply that goes to the kitchen sink before you start the replacement process. Find out where to shut off the water supply. Usually, it is located somewhere in the yard. Turn off the water supply to make sure that the water does not interrupt your work.

Step 2 - Remove Water Supply Line

Remove the water supply line by using a wrench to loosen and remove the nut that secures it to the valve. The supply line connecting the valve to the sink is found on top of the shut-off valve. To loosen the nut, turn it counterclockwise. Keep turning until it is removed.

Step 3 - Remove the Shutoff Valve

Note that the shut-off valve is secured with a compression nut. To remove the shut-off valve, use a wrench to loosen the nut. Rotate the nut counterclockwise until it is taken off the valve. As the compression nut is removed, the shut-off valve will come off.

Take the valve to a home improvement store and purchase a replacement. Make sure you buy an identical part.

Step 4 - Install the New Valve

Remove the new valve from its packing, and secure it to the water supply pipe. Make sure the compression nut of the valve is tightly secured onto the pipe clockwise. Do not over-tighten to avoid causing damage to the nut or the pipe.

Reconnect the water supply line to the valve. Again, make sure you tighten the nut to the water supply line clockwise, and never tighten excessively.

Step 5 - Turn the Water Back On

Turn on the water supply to check if the connection is made secure. Turn on the shut-off valve to see if it works. Close the valve to double check if it shuts off the water supply completely. Check the entire connection for any signs of leaks. If there are loose connections or leaks in the fittings, remove the fittings and apply Teflon tape on the threads before tightening them back again. If Teflon tape does not work, try using a pipe dope.