One thing I’ll add—sometimes those braided supply lines look sturdy but the cheap ones can fail at the crimped ends. If you’re swapping stuff out, it’s worth spending a few extra bucks for the ones with solid brass fittings. Learned that one the hard way...
That’s a solid point about the braided lines. I’ve seen more than a few “premium” looking hoses let go at the crimp, and it’s always at the worst possible time—usually when you’re out or asleep. I’d add that even the better ones should be checked every so often. Sometimes you get a batch that looks fine but has a tiny manufacturing defect hiding in there.
On the shutoff valves, I’m with you about exercising them, but I’ll admit I’ve seen some older ones where turning them too often actually made them start leaking around the stem. Not super common, but it happens. If you notice any drips after cycling them, a quick snug on the packing nut usually sorts it out.
And yeah, those random spot checks are underrated. It’s amazing how much peace of mind you get just poking your head under the sink now and then.
That brings back memories of my first “eco upgrade” in the bathroom. I swapped in a fancy sprayer and, feeling smug, used the included braided line because it looked solid. Six months later, I come home to what sounded like a waterfall in my hallway. Turns out, the crimped end had let go—right where you can’t see it unless you’re lying on the floor with a flashlight and a grudge.
Ever since, I’m all about those brass fittings too. Might cost a bit more, but it beats explaining to your partner why the laundry room now doubles as an indoor pool.
I do disagree a bit on the shutoff valves, though. I try not to touch mine unless I absolutely have to—maybe I’m just unlucky, but every time I so much as look at the old ones sideways, they start seeping. Could just be my 80s plumbing karma...
Anyway, I’m with you—regular spot checks save a lot of headaches (and towels).
Brass fittings are the way to go—learned that lesson after a cheap line burst under my sink. I get what you mean about shutoff valves, though.
Same here with my 70s originals. I just cycle them once a year to keep them from freezing up, but I always have a towel handy, just in case. Regular checks really do save a ton of hassle (and water).“every time I so much as look at the old ones sideways, they start seeping.”