Step-by-Step Guide: Installing a Brass Angle Valve

1. Tools & Materials Required

  • Brass angle valve (correct size: typically ½” inlet × ⅜” or ½” outlet)
  • Adjustable wrench or basin wrench (for tight spaces)
  • Pipe cutter or hacksaw (if replacing old pipe)
  • Deburring tool or sandpaper
  • Teflon tape (for threaded connections) or pipe thread sealant
  • Bucket/towel (to catch residual water)
  • Pressure tester (optional, for leak checks)

2. Pre-Installation Step

2.1 Brass Angle Valve Shut Off Water Supply

  • Turn off the main water supply or isolate the line.
  • Open downstream faucets to drain residual water.

2.2 Prepare the Pipe

  • Cut the pipe cleanly (if replacing old valve) using a pipe cutter.
  • Deburr the cut end to prevent leaks and damage to seals.
  • Measure and dry-fit the valve to ensure proper alignment.

3. Installation Methods

3.1 Compression Fitting Installation (Most common for DIY)

  1. Slide the compression nut onto the pipe, followed by the ferrule (brass ring).
  2. Insert the pipe fully into the valve’s compression port.
  3. Hand-tighten the nut, then use a wrench to secure ¼ turn past snug (avoid over-tightening).

3.2 Threaded/Sweat Connection (For soldered or threaded pipes)

  • Threaded: Wrap Teflon tape clockwise (3–5 layers) on male threads before screwing in the valve.
  • Sweat (Soldered): Solder the valve onto a cleaned copper pipe using flux and lead-free solder.

4. Post-Installation Checks

  1. Slowly turn on water supply and check for leaks.
  2. Tighten compression nut slightly if weeping occurs.
  3. Test valve operation—turn handle to verify smooth shut-off.

5. Pro Tips to Avoid Issues

✔ Avoid overtightening—compression ferrules can deform, causing leaks.
✔ Use two wrenches—hold the valve body while tightening to prevent twisting pipes.
✔ For hard water areas, apply silicone grease on the valve stem to prevent scaling.

6. Common Mistakes & Fixes

IssueCauseSolution
Leak at nutLoose/damaged ferruleRe-cut pipe & replace ferrule
Stiff handleDebris in valveFlush line or replace valve
Low water pressurePartially closed valveFully open valve or check for clogs

7. Compliance & Safety

  • Ensure the valve meets NSF/ANSI 61 for potable water.
  • For gas applications, use gas-rated valves (e.g., BS EN 331).

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