The Single Most Important Plumbing Valve in Your Home
When a washing machine hose splits or a pipe freezes, your main water shutoff valve is your first line of defense. Knowing its exact location and ensuring it functions smoothly can mean the difference between a minor puddle and $20,000 in flood restoration costs.
Gate Valves vs. Modern Ball Valves
Older homes in Greensboro often feature brass Gate Valves with round wheel handles. Gate valves use an internal metal wedge that moves up and down. Over time, mineral deposits build up inside the valve body, causing the stem to break or jam.
Drip Doctors recommends upgrading to a Quarter-Turn Ball Valve. Ball valves feature a chrome-plated brass sphere with a hole through the middle. A simple 90-degree turn of the lever provides instant, 100% watertight shutoff with zero maintenance.