"Also, keeping a pair of channel-lock pliers right by the main shut-off valve has been a lifesaver for me when valves get stubborn... learned that one the hard way too."
That's definitely handy advice, but have you considered regularly exercising your shut-off valves instead? I used to rely on pliers too, until a plumber friend suggested turning the valves open and closed every few months. It keeps them from seizing up in the first place—no tools needed. Plus, less force means less chance of accidentally damaging something. Has anyone else tried this approach?
Good tip on exercising the valves regularly—I started doing that after one seized up and cost me a plumber call-out. Still keep pliers handy though, just in case... old habits die hard.
Definitely agree with exercising valves regularly—it's surprising how quickly they can seize up, especially if they're rarely used. One thing I'd add is to occasionally check the packing nut around the valve stem. Over time, these can loosen or leak slightly, and a quick snug-up with a wrench can save headaches later. Also, pliers are handy in a pinch, but I'd recommend keeping a proper valve key nearby if you have gate valves or curb stops outside. Seen too many stripped stems from folks using pliers or channel locks in emergencies... makes shutting off water way harder than it needs to be.
"Also, pliers are handy in a pinch, but I'd recommend keeping a proper valve key nearby if you have gate valves or curb stops outside."
Good call on the valve key—learned this the hard way last winter when we had a pipe burst in the garage. I thought pliers would do fine, but the stem was partially rusted and the pliers just slipped and stripped it worse. Ended up scrambling for almost half an hour before finally getting it shut off. Since then, I keep a dedicated valve key hanging right inside the garage door—cheap peace of mind. Also second the packing nut check... noticed mine dripping slightly and tightening it took all of two minutes. Small maintenance steps like these save a ton of stress down the line.
Valve keys are definitely underrated. Had a similar situation a couple years back at a client's house—middle of winter, basement flooding, and the curb stop outside was buried under snow and ice. Thought I'd be fine with channel locks, but nope... stem was corroded and rounded off pretty bad. Ended up having to chip away ice and snow for 20 minutes just to get a proper grip. After that fiasco, I started carrying a telescoping valve key in my truck at all times. It's one of those things you rarely think about until you're knee-deep in water and panic sets in.
Also, quick tip: if your valve stem is rusted or stubborn, spraying it down with some penetrating oil ahead of time can save you a headache later. Just give it a quick spray once or twice a year when you're checking your valves anyway. Little preventive stuff like that goes a long way.
