Do's and Don'ts of Replacing Hardware

3/23/2021 (Permalink)

Remember to take caution when changing pipes and other hardware

Everyone gets excited about updating the appliances in our house. However, a lot of us forget that we must also replace the hardware that goes along with our new appliances. If you have not replaced this equipment recently, it is recommended to replace the water supply lines every 5 to 8 years. Tubes, rubber and plastic connectors break down and wear out over time. Just like on your car or even your lawn mower, these require maintenance and repairs in order to avoid major water losses.

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

Before you do anything, SHUT OFF your water supply.Turn your 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.

Remove the old supply line. Use a wrench and loosen the hex-nuts that connect the supply line and remove.

Replace the line. With your new supply line 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.

Turn the water back on. Now that your supply line is in place, you should be good to go to turn your water source back on. SLOWLY turn the supply valve to the left until you start to hear water running, just be sure to be cautious of any leaks.

If you attempt to replace the hardware on your own and something goes wrong, Call SERVPRO of Southwest Waukesha County for all your water damage clean-up needs.  (262) 542-0900.