glennjanie

Yes, the valve that will turn the whole house off.
Glenn

embillma

OK, hopefully bothering you for the last time. Applying my deductive powers I conclude that since the shutoff valve is on the side of the pipe coming up out of the ground and is located just before the outside water bib I must have the water shut off at the meter. (May have to get the water company involved????).
Would it be appropriate to replace the entire 'stem' or just the washer which I guess is on the end of the stem like any other valve?
Sorry for the 'baby step' approach, but I don't do windows or mow lawns! LOL

embillma

Glenn:
It appears the only way to shut off the incoming water to the outside house main is at the underground water meter. Are you aware whether city suppliers frown on customers turning off the inflow? Don't want to stir up any hornets!!
Thanks

inspectorD

I would call em...just to be on the good side if they where to be grumpy.
Good luck.

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embillma

Thanks. Can call and see what sort of reaction I receive.

Since there is a water bib just above the shutoff handle is it smart to change out both in their entirety or just the washers?

inspectorD

If it was me doing the project...I always upgrade as I can. Change it out to a ball valve and the washer issue goes away.
Good luck with the water folks, I think it will be just fine.

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Made in the

embillma

The ball gate suggestion is great. What material is recommended (Brass, SS, Brass/Bronze)?
Meter reader tells me no problem shutting off without contacting them so that concern is eliminated.

glennjanie

Hello Embillma:
I prefer brass valves since they are the most common (next to plastic) and are the longest lasting.
Be sure to ask for a 'ball valve' because a gate valve is an entirely different animal.
Glenn

embillma

Well had handyman friend replace the main valve with a ball valve yesterday. Glad I had someone who knew what to do.
Thought we had won the battle as I did not hear any hum from faucet water; however, this AM in the quiet, flushed BA toilet and the finish of the refill was accomplished with 'the hum'. Last May/June new toilet 'guts' installed.
Is it going to be appropriate to start trying to change out faucet washers now?
Confused, but hopeful!!!

glennjanie

No, if the toilet is where the hum is comming from, that's the place to work on it. Some toilet towers just do that and changing the tower out is the only thing that will eleminate the hum.
Glenn