Can you replace main water valve?

Author: Arlo Muller  |  Last update: Sunday, March 9, 2025

Most of the time it is recommended that a professional perform this replacement, however, if you want to give it a crack yourself, we provide an easy, step-by-step guide for doing so. Follow our easy guide to replacing your main water shutoff valve.

How much does it cost to have a main water valve replaced?

The average cost to replace a main water shut-off valve is $500, but most homeowners pay between $375 and $600 depending on the valve type, material, and whether trenching is involved. The cost can reach as high as $800 for stainless steel valves that require a trench.

How to change a water main valve?

Replace Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve
  1. Get a replacement valve. Head over to your local hardware store and grab a replacement valve. ...
  2. Detach the water supply lines. ...
  3. Remove the old water shut-off valve. ...
  4. Prepare the pipe for the new water shut-off valve. ...
  5. Install the new water shut-off valve.

What is the life expectancy of a water main valve?

The good news is that they can last for 20 to 25 years. The bad news is that if they are not used and exercised every two years (at least), they may freeze in the open position and need replacement. While true, you cannot ignore the importance of shut-off valves to your home's plumbing system.

How much does it cost to replace a main water pressure valve?

For a standard PRV replacement, expect to pay around $400 to $800. This includes the new valve, plumber fees, permit charges, and any additional materials or labor.

SHUT-OFF valve installs on a LIVE WATER PIPE - Aladdin EasyFit Isolator

How much will a plumber charge to change a valve?

The last thing that affects shut-off valve replacement costs is where you want to install the new valve and how easy it will be to reach there. The average cost to replace a water shut-off valve is between $375 and $600.

How do I know if my water pressure valve is bad?

How do I know if my pressure-reducing valve is bad?
  1. Diminishing or fluctuating water pressure…
  2. No water pressure.
  3. Thumping, banging, hammering, or vibrating noises in the walls…
  4. High water pressure, water leaking from faucet, toilet running constantly…

How long does it take to replace a main water valve?

How long does it take to replace a main shut off valve? The time required for replacing a main shut off valve varies based on factors like accessibility, complexity of the job, and any unforeseen issues. On average, it can take anywhere from 1 to 3 hours.

How to tell if a water valve is bad?

Test the water flow by turning on a faucet—no water should flow if the valve is functioning correctly. Check for leaks around the valve and ensure it turns smoothly. If the valve is hard to turn or water continues to flow, it may need repair or replacement.

Who is responsible for replacing the main water shut-off valve?

Should a main valve not operate or shut the water off to the home, it is the homeowner's responsibility to have it repaired or replaced. To do this work the water will need to be shut off by Public Works at the curb stop which is typically located in the front yard.

How do you fix a leaky water main valve?

Try fixing it yourself — gently tighten the packing nut with a wrench, turning it only one-eighth to one-quarter of a turn; then open and close the valve several times. If tightening the packing nut doesn't stop the leak, turn off your home's main water line, remove the packing nut, and install a new valve.

What does the main water valve look like in a house?

The water main shut-off valve will look like a slightly large pipe with some sort of handle stuck in the middle of it. It's not a massive pipe or valve, so it can easily blend in with the rest of your fixtures.

Is it easy to replace a water valve?

A threaded valve screws directly onto the water supply line and is easy to replace. In a compression connection, the valve screws into a hexagonal nut that fits around the supply line. The most difficult type to replace is a sweat valve, which is soldered onto the supply pipe.

How much does it cost to replace the main water line in a house?

Expect costs to rise from 4% to 8.5% over 2023 for any plumbing project, including main line installations. The national average for replacement ranges from $1,500 to $12,000, with most homeowners paying around $3,750 for replacing a 25-foot long main line with galvanized steel using a trenchless installation.

How much should a valve replacement cost?

Hospital and Surgeon Fees

According to a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, the average hospital charges for heart valve replacement range from $50,000 to $200,000.

How do you know if a valve needs to be replaced?

Is it time to replace your shower valve?
  1. Dripping or Leaking. A leaking shower valve is one of the more common signs that it could need to be replaced. ...
  2. Low Water Pressure. ...
  3. Inconsistent Water Temperature. ...
  4. Difficulty Turning the Valve. ...
  5. Age of the Valve.

Why is water still running when main water is turned off?

The simple answer? You have a plumbing leak. Although you may not find a leaky faucet or a clogged drain in your home, there can be somewhat mysterious reasons why your plumbing may have a leak. There may be a hidden plumbing leak in the walls of your home, or maybe your toilet is running when it's not in use.

How often should water valves be replaced?

Over time, the water main valve in your home can deteriorate due to wear and tear. If your home is over 20 years old and the water main valve hasn't been replaced, it's likely time for an upgrade. An aging valve may not function as effectively, increasing the risk of leaks and water damage.

Does every house have a main water valve?

Every home was required to have a main water shut-off valve installed inside the home when it was built. For most emergencies or repairs, shutting off the proper inside valve is all you will need to do. However, there are also underground shut-off valves installed outside at the property line.

How do I know if my main water valve is off?

Shut off the water by turning the ball valve 1/4 turn to make it perpendicular to the water pipe. If the ball valve is parallel, it is ON; if it is perpendicular (90° angle), it is OFF. The water meter should also be able to tell you if you have a plumbing leak somewhere in your home.

How much does it cost to replace a water pressure valve?

The average cost to replace a water pressure regulator ranges from $300 to $650 for most homes, including labor and materials. However, the cost to install a water pressure-reducing valve can vary significantly depending on your location, the regulator type, and the installation complexity.

How do you fix a bad water valve?

Steps:
  1. Shut the water off to the house.
  2. Pull the handle off the shutoff valve using the screwdriver.
  3. Loosen the gland nut behind the handle using the wrench.
  4. Unscrew and remove the valve.
  5. Screw in the new valve from the repair kit.
  6. Tighten the gland nut back over the new valve with the wrench.

What is causing low water pressure in my house?

Problems with water system infrastructure, high water demand in your home, and mineral build-up are all common causes of low water pressure.

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