How to Loosen a Water Supply Valve

How to Loosen a Water Supply Valve
Published: Mar 22, 2010
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
1 minute read

You do not often shut the water off in these locations, and sediment will build up around the inner stem of the valve handle. Do not attempt to force a stuck valve because you could break the pipe connecting to the valve.

  1. Lay a towel or a shallow container under the water supply valve with the stuck handle. If you are using a container, it does not need to be large. Only a small amount of water may leak from the water supply valve.

  2. Locate the packing nut between the back of the handle and the body of the water supply valve.

  3. Place a wrench on the packing nut and slowly turn the packing nut counterclockwise a quarter turn.

  4. Rotate the water supply valve handle. If the handle is still stuck, twist it left and right until the sediment loosens from the stem. Turn the valve handle all the way off and then back to the on position.

  5. Tighten the packing nut with the wrench with the valve in the open position. Shut the water supply valve off to fix the remainder of your plumbing project.

Things You Will Need

  • Towel
  • Shallow container
  • Wrench set

Photo Credits

Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images

Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images

Kenneth Crawford

Kenneth Crawford is a freelance writer with more than 10 years of experience. His work has appeared in both print and online publications, including "The American Chronicle." Crawford holds an associate degree in business administration…

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