Leaking Toilets, Shut-Off Valves & Packing Nuts

Shut off valve types; gate, stop, ball valve description and instructions

At Certified Plumbing Company, the number one call is toilet operating problems. 

The second most frequent call goes something like this: “I just turned off my shut-off valve and now it’s leaking, can you come out and fix it?”  Yes we can, but I may not have to leave my office to solve your problem.  Many times this is true if you, the customer, have a crescent wrench or a pair of pliers and a little plumber inside you, the fix is almost 10 seconds away.

 The three most commonly used shut-off valves in your home would be: a gate valve that has a round handle that you turn clock-wise to shut off; a stop which has a oval handle that you turn clock-wise to turn off and a ball valve that has a lever handle that you pull up or down ¼ turn for on and off.  These three valves have one thing in common – a packing nut located behind the handle and around the stem.  The nut is 6 sided.  This packing nut tightens the packing around the stem so it won’t leak.  When the valve is opened and closed a lot or if not used very much, the packing will get loose, rip or just disintegrate. 

 Does this sound a little confusing or is this just a little bit too much information?  You’re right – Call 303-795-7498 and will will handle this repair for you!