How to Fix a Leaking Ball Valve?

Ball valves are essential components of both plumbing and piping systems. While they are normally quite sturdy and leak-proof, they are not impervious to harm.  

Fortunately, if you learn the precise phases of the procedure, repairing a ball valve is rather straightforward. 

Now we’ll go through how to repair a ball valve step by step. 

How to repair a leaking ball valve?

An adjustable wrench and a cloth are the only tools required for the initial portion of this technique.  

Depending on your conditions, you may later need a screwdriver, screws, and lubricating oil.  

Once you’ve gathered these tools, proceed with the instructions outlined below to accomplish your ball valve repair! 

Step 1: Disconnect the water supply 

This is a very crucial initial step because if the water is not correctly shut off, the replacement may be disrupted.  

The water flow interfering with this operation might squander not just time but also resources, thus risking the replacement’s success.  

Turning off the water supply ensures that no more water is wasted than has already been squandered due to the damaged ball valve. 

After turning off the water, remove any surplus water and dry the valve using a towel.

The handle may then be removed to reveal the location of the screws that hold the ball valve together.  

Then, using the adjustable wrench, remove it. You’ll be able to effortlessly remove and dismantle the ball valve from here, exposing the root of the issue. 

Step 2: Disassemble and remove the ball valve 

The key to completing the next phase of the process is organization.  

When removing and dismantling the ball valve, keep all of the pieces together. It will be more difficult to locate the cause of the issue if components are missing or misplaced.

This may cause you to be perplexed and may even induce you to spend more money than required. By keeping the ball valve pieces together, you ensure that if any of the ball valve parts are salvageable, the reassembling procedure will be simple and stress-free. 

Every ball valve is built somewhat differently. They have varied components to satisfy different purposes, but in general, if you are dealing with a compact PVC ball valve, you will be evaluating four main elements: the handle, the double stem O-ring, joint end extra O-rings, and the ball valve sphere. 

Step 3: Examine ball valve parts 

Inspecting the pieces of the ball valve needs some patience, but the time invested will be well worth it.

By inspecting each component, you should be able to detect fractures or wear and tear that may have resulted in a leaky or non-functioning ball valve.

If you detect a problem with one of the ball valve parts but observe that the rest of the ball valve components seem to be normal and functional, the best remedy is to purchase a new part.

After replacing the broken component, reassemble the pieces using the lubricating oil and screws.

If this is the case, you do not need to go to step four.

However, if you observe damage to many portions of your ball valve or it seems to be beyond repair, you will need to purchase a new ball valve.

Step 4: Change the ball valve 

If, after following the above-mentioned ball valve repair techniques, you realize that you need a complete ball valve replacement, consider some of the alternatives.

There’s a large selection of ball valves that are likely to satisfy your requirements.

And there you have it, following the above tips, you can easily fix a leaking ball valve.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What causes leaks in ball valves? 

Leaks in valves may occur for several causes, including, the valve is not completely closed (e.g., due to dirt, debris, or some other obstruction).  

The valve has been damaged. Leakage may be caused by damage to either the seat or the seal. 

Can ball valves fail? 

Ball valves can fail. Poor design (chemical compatibility, rated pressure/flow rate, etc.), defective installation, and/or inappropriate operation may all lead to ball valve failure. 

What is the cost of replacing a ball valve? 

The average national materials cost to install a water shut-off valve is $35 per valve, with a range of $33 to $37.00. The total cost of labor and materials per valve is $190, ranging from $175 to $205.