In some cases replacing a water main valve is considerable less work than replacing an entire water main line, but is it realistic to think that the valve could be replaced at no cost? Recently we had a long time customer call and request that we replace his water main valve for free. It was requested that we consider the relationship of many years, the fact that we complete large projects for him and the fact that he is a nice guy.
Where all of the statements are accurate, it was not possible for us to replace the valve at not cost. After explaining to our customer that it was not as easy as removing one valve and installing a new one, he understood the time and cost associated with replacing the valve.
He didn’t figure the cost associated with opening the roadway which is required to stop the water. It is important to understand that if you are replacing the main control valve, we must first stop the water from flowing inside the pipe. If the property does not have a functional curb valve, we would always be required to close the city tap connection which is located 3′-4′ below the roadway. Once the water has been turned off the main valve is replaced with a new valve.
It is also common that the existing water main is of such age or condition that will not allow for a new valve to be installed, if there is any concern that the pipe is fragile the licensed plumber will not perform the repair. In addition, the plumbing code does not allow repairs to be completed on lead or galvanized pipe. In both of these scenarios the entire pipe would have to be replaced from the street, to inside the house with the new valve.
If you are facing a similar scenario it would be a good time to take a look at the size of your pipe which impacts the volume and pressure. Many of our customers will take this opportunity to improve upon a scenario where they are suffering from bad pressure and upgrade the tap connection, in addition to the pipe size.
If you have questions specific to your valve replacement or are considering upgrading for better pressure, it is best to speak with a licensed plumber to assist with any additional details that are relevant to your property.
