Repair Leaking Globe Valves and Gate Valves
With gate valves and globe plumbing valves, the most common problem is leakage around the stem. To repair, first shut off the water at another valve between the leaking unit and the water source, or at the main house intake. With an adjustable or open-end wrench, loosen the packing nut. Hold a bucket beneath the valve to catch the water remaining in the line, then remove the packing nut. Remove the old packing and wrap new packing around the stem, then replace the packing nut.
When a gate valve does not do its job of regulating or closing off the flow of water through a line, it usually indicates either an obstruction or damage in the valve seat that prevents the valve wedge from closing properly. It may also mean wear of either the wedge or the seat. Whatever the cause, the entire valve should be replaced.
Globe valve repairs are similar to faucet repairs. After removing the packing nut, screw the stem out of the valve body. Inspect the disc or washer at the bottom of the stem. If it is worn or damaged, unscrew the locknut that holds it in place and replace it with a new one.
Ground key valves may become grooved or worn by tiny particles in the water rubbing against the metal, allowing the water to leak through. The surfaces must be re-polished. Shut off the water supply and un-fasten the nut or screw at the bottom of the valve that holds the plunger in place. Pull out the plunger. Smear a small amount of valve-grinding compound on the sides of the plunger and replace it in its sleeve. Rotate the plunger back and forth to wear the two surfaces smooth, fonning a leakproof joint. Remove the plunger and wipe it clean. Wipe clean the inside of the sleeve, then reassemble the valve. If the parts are too badly worn to respond to this treatment, replace the valve.
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Tags: gate valve, globe valve