“making sure they’re not stuck”
That’s honestly one of the best habits you can get into. I’ve seen way too many folks ignore their shutoff valves until it’s too late. Even if you just give them a twist every season, it makes a difference. Old towels as insulation—totally agree, it’s not pretty but it works in a pinch. Water alarms are underrated for sure, especially for the price.
Honestly, I wish more folks would just check their shutoff valves once in a while. I’ve come across way too many that are seized up from years of neglect—it’s a headache when you actually need them. Not a fan of old towels for insulation long-term, though. They trap moisture and can make things worse if you forget about them. Pipe foam sleeves are cheap and do a better job. Water alarms, though, 100% worth the few bucks, especially if you’ve got a finished basement or older plumbing.
Honestly, I wish more folks would just check their shutoff valves once in a while. I’ve come across way too many that are seized up from years of neglect—it’s a headache when you actually need them.
Totally get this. First time I tried to shut off the main at my place, it wouldn’t budge. Had to call in backup and felt pretty dumb. Now I give it a twist every few months—saves a lot of stress later. Pipe foam sleeves are underrated, too. Old towels just end up gross, honestly.
Pipe foam sleeves are underrated, too. Old towels just end up gross, honestly.
Couldn’t agree more about the towels—tried that once and ended up with a moldy mess. Pipe foam is cheap, works better, and you don’t have to worry about it turning into a science experiment under your sink. I’d add that a little food-grade silicone on the valve stem keeps things moving, too. Not glamorous, but it beats wrestling with a wrench at 2am.
Pipe foam is cheap, works better, and you don’t have to worry about it turning into a science experiment under your sink.
Yeah, the science experiment part is spot on. I tried wrapping pipes with old rags when I first moved in—big mistake. The smell alone was enough to make me regret it. Pipe foam sleeves are just so much more practical, and they actually insulate. Never thought about food-grade silicone on the valve stem, though. Makes sense if you want to avoid stuck valves, but I’ve always just used a bit of plumber’s grease. Maybe I’m missing out?
