a ball valve repair
A BALL VALVE is also known as a float valve and this important part can affect
your toilet system when damaged. A faulty ball valve is relatively simple to
repair with basic tools and steps that are easy to follow. Most people are under
the impression that such a repair is too advanced and complicated so a majority
will hire a professional to do the job instead.
It is not wise or
cost-effective to leave the faulty ball valve as is because further damage to
your cistern pipe from excessive overflow of water. The skills require to repair
are minimal and the tools required can be found around the house. Follow this
easy guide to faulty BALL VALVE repair and avoid wasting money.
Tools
Needed to Repair
• Ball valve
• String and tape
• Screwdriver,
chisel and wrench
• Lubricant oil
• Rag and pliers
• Plastic
bag
Just about all the tools need to repair a faulty ball valve are
fairly common and affordable. You may not even need to purchase the items needed
because they can be easily found lying around the house. Before starting the
repair, make sure to turn off the water supply to avoid flooding or other
complications.
If you have trouble finding supplies and need a temporary
solution then tie a plastic bag where the valve would be attached. This is not a
long-term solution because the ball valve is responsible for controlling the
flow of water to the cistern. Without a float valve, the cistern cannot flush
properly when dry.
Steps to Repair
1. Check your cistern and
see if there is water overflowing. If the BALL VALVE is still floating then you
will not need to close the valve with tape or string. However, even a partially
submerged float valve on the cistern side will need to be closed. You will need
to flush the cistern to empty any water left inside.
2. To remove the
old ball valve, take off the floating arm and extract the pins with a set of
pliers. Then remove the cap with a wrench towards the end of the valve. You may
need to use lubricant oil if the cap is too tight to turn.
3. Use a
screwdriver and slide it into the piston. Valves with one-piece pistons can
simply replace the washer. Those with more than one piece will need to rotate
the piston in order to remove the cap and washer to replace.
4. Rinse and
clean the ball valve then cover the piston with lubricating oil. Once completely
clean, you can proceed to put the valve back together and turn on the
water.
In order to check if the repair was done properly, check if the
water fills up just below the warning level of the cistern. Any overflow
indicates there are likely still problems with the ball valve. If there are
still problems after replacing an old ball valve then this could be an
indication of cistern damage.
Before hiring a professional to perform a
simple ball valve replacement, give yourself some credit and follow this
easy guide to repair. You will not have to spend much on tools and will save a
bundle from not having a plumber or mechanic do the job.
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