Although they are critical to the plumbing system’s safety and proper functioning, curb stop valves are one of those components that are overlooked way too often; that is, until they start malfunctioning or break down completely.

The thing is, even the top-quality Mueller or Ford curb stop valve cannot last forever. At some point, it will start exhibiting signs of malfunctioning, and learning to recognize these indicators is key to ensuring the safety and uninterrupted operation of your commercial/industrial facility.

How do you know if a valve needs to be replaced?

Before we delve into the actual signs of a malfunctioning curb stop valve, we need to acknowledge two factors that may warrant the valve’s replacement, even if it is functioning properly. These are:

1. Age & material: If a curb stop valve is 20-30 years old or older (which is a nominal lifespan of many valves) or made of outdated materials prone to corrosion or contamination (e.g., lead, galvanized steel, cast iron), they should be replaced to ensure compliance with modern safety standards.
2. Regulatory criteria: Regulatory authorities (i.e., local utility company, state utility commission, EPA, AWWA) may have specific guidelines, recommendations, or requirements regarding curb stop valve replacement.

With those out of the way, we can move forward with the actual signs that your curb stop valve needs to be replaced.

Leaks or water damage

These indicators are the easiest to spot since they are typically visible without advanced equipment and include:

• Water leaks or puddling around or in the vicinity of the valve;
• Water damage (e.g., stains, warping, mineral deposits) on the surrounding surfaces (depending on the valve placement);

These signs typically point to internal wear or seal failure, both of which warrant replacement.

Visible damage

Another set of indicators that is easy to notice with the naked eye includes:

• Visible cracks, corrosion, or mineral deposits on the valve’s surface usually mean that the component’s integrity has been compromised, and non-replacement can lead to an increased failure risk.
• Discolored water or sediment coming out of the valve when it is opened can point to internal deterioration or rusting of the valve, but may also indicate rust, mineral deposit buildup, or degradation of the connected pipes. 

Difficulty operating

If the valve requires excessive force to operate, is completely stuck, or the handle is broken, it generally points to advanced corrosion or internal damage. Inoperable valves should be replaced as quickly as possible, as they are a liability and safety risk.

Opening/closing issues

A corroded, damaged, or worn-out valve won’t fully open or close, resulting in the following issues:

• Failure to shut off water completely: Indicated by leakage and water loss;
• Failure to open completely: Indicated by restricted water flow.

Needless to say, the inability to control the water flow automatically defeats the purpose of the curb stop valve, which is why these problems should be addressed ASAP.

Water flow & pressure issues

Inconsistent water flow or low water pressure are common signs of a malfunctioning curb stop valve. However, the issue is that they are usually accompanying indicators rather than definitive ones, as they may indicate valve or pipe problems, rendering them inconclusive.

Where can I find a Ford curb stop valve for sale near me?

At Blair Supply, you can find a broad selection of high-quality water main and wastewater materials, including different types of curb stop valves sourced from the industry’s leading manufacturers.

Although we’re based in Rochester, NY, our proximity to the Frederick Douglass Airport and a network of reliable suppliers enables us to cater to customers throughout the US with the utmost efficiency. Contact us today and discover why we have remained at the forefront of the industry for nearly 70 years!