How To Change A Water Supply Line

12/13/2019 (Permalink)

Water Supply Lines Like These Should Be Replaced Regularly

It is recommended to change your water supply line each time that an appliance (toilet, wash machine, faucet) is replaced.  However, often times years will go by without replacing these very important devices.  If you have not replaced this equipment recently, it is recommended to replace the water supply lines every 5 to 8 years.  Just like other items that break down over time due to normal wear and tear, the tubes or rubber or plastic can wear down as well.

Please follow these tips when changing a supply line in your home or business.

1. Turn off the water to the toilet or sink or washer and flush it or drain the lines accordingly. If possible, turn the water supply valve to the right until it’s tight, then flush your toilet and tank or lines to drain out the water. If you do not have a water supply shut-off valve, contact a local licensed plumber to install one.  If you don’t remember to flush the toilet, you could end up dumping a bunch of water all over your bathroom floor later on the in the process. Also, it may be a good idea to soak up all the water that has leaked out onto your floor if you haven’t already. Bathroom floors can be slippery when wet.

2. Loosen and remove the old supply line. Take your wrench and loosen the hex-nuts that connect the supply line to both the supply valve and toilet tank or other items. Remember: Once the hex-nuts are loose the old supply line should easily lift free.

3. Put the new supply line into place. Take your new supply line and attach one of the ends. It doesn’t matter which end you choose to install first. Line it up and use your fingers to tighten the hex-nut into place. Now, attach the opposite end and use your fingers to tighten the hex-nut into place.  Then take a wrench to tighten the hex nut.

4. Turn on the water to the toilet. Now that your supply line is in place, all that’s left is to turn on the water and make sure that it’s working properly. SLOWLY turn the supply valve to the left until you start to hear water running and, for a toilet, you see water filling the toilet tank. As the tank is filling, be sure to keep an eye on your supply line and look for any leaks.

Call SERVPRO of Jefferson County/Oconomowoc for all your water damage clean-up needs.  (920) 674-3002.