How to Shut Off a Stuck Toilet Valve
A shutoff valve controls the flow of water from a building's fresh water pipes to the toilet. In the event of a leak, a toilet overflow or a running toilet, you can turn off the shutoff valve to stop the flow of water to the fixture. Over time a shutoff valve can wear out, leading to small leaks or a valve that no longer can open or close. If left alone, a toilet shutoff valve may become permanently stuck or damaged.
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Turn off the main water supply. Locate the main shutoff valve in the basement of the building and turn it to the "closed" position. Open a faucet nearby in the basement or first floor to drain excess water in the pipes.
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Look at the front of the toilet shutoff valve and locate the small screw in the center of the valve.
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Use the Phillips-head screwdriver to loosen the screw just a small amount.
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Grasp the valve and turn it back and forth until it comes loose. You may need to loosen the screw some more.
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Continue turning the valve back and forth until it moves freely. Retighten the screw and turn the valve all the way closed.
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Turn the valve again in the opposite direction to open the water flow. Do not turn it all the way open; if you're able to turn it until it reaches its outer stop, slowly turn it back about a half rotation, as leaving it fully open could cause leakage and will make the valve more prone to sticking open.
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Turn the main supply valve in the basement or elsewhere back to the open position. Flush the toilet and inspect the toilet shutoff valve. If water is dripping from the valve, turn the valve slightly tighter until the drip subsides.
Warnings
- Do not use pliers or wrenches to force the valve open, as this can damage the valve or cause it to snap off.
Writer Bio
Maxwell Payne has been a freelance writer since 2007. His work has appeared in various print and online publications. He holds a Bachelor of Science in integrated science, business and technology.
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