Home Owner Tips and Tricks

As we approach the time of “Spring Cleaning” I thought in an effort to give back to our community I would give some simple tips and tricks to help keep your house in good working order and help to keep your repair costs down. My Name is Tony Gonzales, Owner/Operator of Coastline Custom Homes.  I’ve been working as a General Contractor in South Orange County for the past 15 years.  Having been in my fair share of homes in the area, there is one thing most people don’t ever think about when doing the yearly house upkeep chores such as replacing the filter for the heater system, cleaning out rain gutters, etc. That one thing is exercising the water shut off valves under your sinks and behind the toilets.

When I use the term “exercising the valves” basically that means turn them off and back on. A very simple chore that can save you money in the long run.

What this action does “turning the valve off and back on” is prevent the valves from freezing up or locking into an “ON” positions. Typically what happens after years of sitting in one position, water deposits and calcium build up will freeze the valve, rendering it inoperable. Although water will still pass through it, you might notice a lack of flow, or in worst cases the valve will start to leak. The purpose of these valves is to isolate that particular water source should there be a water leak or a need for service.  It can be a big inconvenience should there be a need for repairs only to find out that the Plumber or Contractor needs to shut down the water supply to your entire house, possibly leaving you without water for hours. A simple twist can save you the inconvenience.

Should you find one of the shut off valves in your house unable to turn DON’T force it. Forcing it can break the valve or damage the piping inside the wall. The best course of action at that point is to change it. Keep in mind, changing the valve is not mandatory! Do it at your convenience or the next time you service the faucet or toilet.  If your handy with tools, changing the valve is relatively simple. However being a contortionist to get under the sink is another story!  You can purchase a new valve for around $10 at your local hardware store. And with a couple wrenches can be removed and replaced. Don’t forget to turn off the main water supply to the house before attempting this. And ALWAYS double check your connections to make sure no water is dripping after you make the change. A good way to check this is to use a paper towel and dry the valve before and after you turn the main water supply back on. After the water is back on wait five minutes and check it again by wiping it around the threads. Although many “Do it yourselfers” can repair this themselves. As a licensed professional I have to put a disclaimer recommending to get a professional to repairs. 

Once a year is all it takes to keep the Shut Off Valves in good working order. Take the time, save some money!

If you any questions or comments on my tips or tricks, or if you have any other ideas for me to write about. Please feel free to send me a note at: coastlinerepair@gmail.com