How to Replace the Plumbing Stop & Pressure Fitting on a PVC Pipe

A PVC plumbing stop and pressure fitting, also referred to as a shut-off valve, can be opened and closed to stop water flow in a PVC pipe system. Although a temporary repair can be made to the valve, the Plastic Pipe and Fitting Association strongly recommends replacing the valve. Unlike metal plumbing fixtures and fittings, replacing a PVC fitting can be done with a few tools.

PVC couplings (the size of the current PVC pipe and pressure fitting), 2
Marker
Ruler or measuring tape
Hacksaw
Fine sandpaper
Lint-free cotton rag
Latex gloves
PVC primer
PVC solvent cement

Instructions

- 1
  Turn off the main water valve.
- 2
  Attach the PVC couplings to the new pressure fitting. Use a ruler or measuring tape to measure the length of the attachments.
- 3
  Measure the length of the PVC pipes and mark the size of the PVC couplings and new pressure fitting on the PVC pipes where the new fitting will be installed. Mark the lengths with a marker on the PVC pipe above and below the old fitting. Measure 1/2 inch inside the marked areas and mark the 1/2-inch mark with a marker.
- 4
  Use a hacksaw to cut away the pressure fitting at each 1/2-inch mark on the PVC pipes. Remove the fitting.
- 5
  Use fine sandpaper to remove burrs from the ends of the pipes cut with a hacksaw. Wipe the pipes clean with a lint-free cotton rag. Ensure the PVC pipe ends are smooth.
- 6
  Put on latex gloves. Apply PVC primer to 1/2 inch of the outside of one cut PVC pipe end. Apply PVC primer inside one of the PVC couplings. Apply 1/2 inch of PVC primer to the top, outside of the replacement PVC shut-off valve. Immediately apply PVC solvent cement over the primer on the cut PVC pipe end, coupling and replacement PVC shut-off valve.
- 7
  Connect the coupling and PVC pipe lubricated with primer and solvent cement. Attach one end of the PVC shut-off valve to the coupling. Allow the pieces to dry completely.
- 8
  Apply PVC primer to 1/2 inch of the outside of the other cut PVC pipe end. Apply PVC primer inside of the other PVC coupling. Apply 1/2 inch of PVC primer to the outside of the replacement PVC shut-off valve that is not attached to the pipe or coupling. Immediately apply PVC solvent cement over the primer on the cut PVC pipe end, coupling and PVC shut-off valve.
- 9
  Connect the coupling and PVC pipe lubricated with primer and solvent cement. Move the cut PVC pipe slightly to successfully connect the second coupling to the PVC shut-off valve. Do not use force to move the pipe. The second connection of the pipe, coupling and shut-off valve should fit comfortably and close the connection.
- 10
  Allow the pipes to cure completely before turning on the main water valve.

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