On Apr 30, 1:47*pm, dakota2112 wrote:
On Apr 30, 1:11 pm, wrote:



There's no way I'd use the garden hose type valves that are meant to
screw onto a sillcock. *I've never seen one of those that I would
consider well built, sturdy, etc to use for a washer. * If you can't
get at the existing ones to replace them, what exactly is the
problem? * I'd prefer ball valves too, but it the existing gate ones
work, which is what the vast majority have anyway, why screw around?

The existing gate valves may or may not work for their intended
purpose... I never turn them off because of the stigma associated with
them (they are often seized open, or the packing nut starts leaking
once you turn them, etc). *

That can be a problem with gate valves. On the other hand, there are
a zillion of them around and working reasonably well. Unless they are
in real bad shape, I'd just use them. You can also replace the
packing and washers, etc. Another option, which is what I would do
if I were concerned, is to get the electric type valves that open/
close automatically.




But to avoid un-needed problems with burst
hoses, I want to be able to shut the supply off except when in use.

I could theoretically get access to replace the existing valves, which
would be the best solution but it would be a lot of work. *Like many
home owners, my spare time has a supply/demand crisis (thanks to the
leaky roof, the leaky barn, and the leaky patio door ;-). *So I'm
looking for an easier alternative.