The hot water shutoff valve to the washing machine was dripping. I removed the packing nut and put in new packing over the weekend. Problem is that the packing nut seems to only go back on at an angle no matter what I do...it may have already been that way though. The valve isn't currently dripping, but I'm not liking the way the packing nut only goes on at an angle. Would it be crazy to keep the existing valve if I keep an eye on it and over time it doesn't drip, or is it too risky to keep this valve given that the packing nut is on at a funny angle? (Local plumbers here in Northern NJ all want around $350 if I were to replace both the hot and cold with a watts single handle valve.) Thanks, J.
I would do a little more trying to get the nut on straight. Turn it counter-clockwise until it drops a little bit. Then turn it clockwise. Question to ask yourself is, how long will it take you to get to the main house shutoff valve if the nut lets go? You should be able to replace just the one faucet for less than $10.
A new valve is around $6. If you were able to do the work you did you certainly are capable of replacing the valve by yourself. That plumber is yanking your chain.
It is your house if your uncomfortable with the packing nut being cross threaded then have it replaced otherwise if it isn't leaking just keep an eye on it. by chance do you turn your water valves on and off alot? because if you do you are causing the packing to deteriorate.
An old saying I like is If it ain't broke, don't fix it!. Even though the packing nut appears to be cross-threaded, if there is no leak, I'd leave it alone. Washer connection stop valves seldom get used. They mostly just stay on, unless you have a washing machine breakdown. I'd just peek at it each washday. If it doesn't leak, I'd leave it be.
What type of pipe do you have? If it is galvanized steel pipe, shut the water off, drain the water, and remove the valve by turning counter clockwise. Apply some Teflon tape or pipe joint compound, and screw the new valve on. The valve is about $5 at your local hardware store. The Watts valve runs about $25, so the plumbers are trying to take advantage of you. If you have another type of pipe, just ask at your local hardware, and they will be happy to assist you. I would recommend replacing the valve. Water pressures fluctuate during the night, and build up to their highest point about 4am. If this started leaking at that time of the morning, you would wake up to a big surprise! I charge $85 for a service call, plus parts, for a comparison. Good luck to you!
