How to Remove Quarter-Turn Frost-Free Valve Stems
Quarter-turn frost-free faucets are made for easy operation outside and in locations that experience severe weather. They require much less force to open and can easily be operated while you are wearing heavy gloves or other hand covers. The quarter-turn handle on these faucets is connected to a valve stem that regulates the amount of water that flows through the faucet. Removing a quarter-turn frost-free valve stem is necessary if you need to service any of the parts inside, such as the faucet washer. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Adjustable wrench
- Pliers
- Phillips screwdriver
- Flat bladed screwdriver
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Instructions
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Cut the water supply for the quarter-turn frost-free valve stem. There are two different ways of doing this, depending on your house, condo or apartment.
Isolated Water Cut Off: Look in the spaces behind where the quarter-turn frost-free valve stem is installed, in a basement or crawl space, for example, to locate the water supply shut off valve for the faucet. Turn the knob clockwise to cut off the water supply.
Main Water Supply: If you don't have a separate water supply cut off, you will have to turn off the water for your entire house or apartment. The main water supply shutoff valve is typically installed next to the water meter. Look for the utility box that contains your water meter in the front or side yard. Rotate the valve from the current position to turn off the water. In an apartment or condo, this utility box is usually located on the outside of the building.
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Open the quarter-turn faucet and allow any water inside to drain out.
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Remove the faucet handle. Use a flat bladed or Phillips screwdriver to remove the handle screw. Pull the handle straight off the stem.
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Identify the valve stem hex nut located directly beneath the handle on the quarter-turn frost-free valve stem. Adjust the wrench so that it fits snugly around the stem and turn counterclockwise.
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Pull the valve stem out of the faucet body carefully, as the valve stems on these faucets can be quite long.
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References
Resources
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