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In Toronto, clean water enters homes and condos through underground pipes buried 4 to 6 feet deep to prevent freezing during the winter. These residential pipes typically range from half an inch to one inch in diameter. Many older homes in Toronto still have their original pipes, often made of lead or copper, with a diameter of just half an inch. These aging pipes are usually equipped with outdated main shut-off valves located before the water meter in the basement. Over time, these valves can develop various issues such as leaks from the valve stem, difficulty turning the handle, or an inability to shut off the water due to age, mineral buildup, corrosion, and deterioration of the rubber O-ring and washer. The solution to these problems is to replace the valve. However, replacing a main shut-off valve is not a DIY task—it requires the expertise of a licensed and experienced plumber. Toronto residents trust Mister Plumber, a reputable company with over twenty years of experience, to handle such tasks. Mister Plumber has successfully assisted thousands of customers across the city.
Important Considerations for Main Shut-Off Valve Replacement
To replace an old shut-off valve, the water supply from the city must first be turned off. In Toronto, you can schedule this by contacting 311. However, there are instances where the city’s curb shut-off valve is faulty. In such cases, the city valve must be repaired or replaced before the main valve in the basement can be changed. If the valve is connected to a lead pipe, both the underground water service pipe and the valve need to be replaced.
It’s recommended to coordinate the plumber’s visit on the same day that the city comes to turn off the water. Homeowners should clear the area around the meter to provide easy access for the plumber and their tools. During the valve replacement, water supply will be temporarily interrupted, so it’s wise to store some water in advance. Once the new main shut-off valve is installed, homeowners must contact 311 again to have the city’s curb valve turned back on. Be aware that the City of Toronto charges a fee for turning the water off and on, which will be added to your water bill.
Recommendations from Mister Plumber for Homeowners
1. Know the Location: Every household member should be aware of the main shut-off valve’s location and the water meter in the basement. In emergencies like a burst pipe, it’s crucial to shut off the main valve quickly to prevent extensive water damage.
2. Maintain Clear Access: Ensure there is no clutter around the valve, allowing for easy access in case of an emergency.
3. Proactive Replacement: If you have an old valve showing signs of corrosion, don’t wait for it to start leaking—replace it proactively. A functioning main shut-off valve is essential. Ask your plumber to install a ball-type valve, which is far more reliable than the gate valves used in the past. Modern ball valves lack rubber components, making them more resistant to chlorine-related deterioration and longer-lasting. Additionally, ball valves are full-port, meaning they do not reduce water pressure.
4. Trust Expert Advice: Always follow the recommendations of Mister Plumber. Their advice is based on extensive experience, not profit.
Need a Main Water Valve Replacement?
Our licensed Toronto plumbers are just a phone call away. When you hire Mister Plumber, you receive friendly, reliable, and professional service. Our highly skilled plumbers pay meticulous attention to detail, choose the appropriate technical approach based on your pipe layout and access, and use modern, powerful tools combined with expert knowledge.
