Couldn’t agree more about manual valves—sometimes the “old school” way just works better. I swapped out a smart valve last winter after it froze up (literally and figuratively) during a power outage. Manual’s been solid since. One thing I’d add: after swapping, I always run the tap for a minute to flush out any debris that might’ve gotten in during the change. Saves you from weird noises or clogs down the line. Simple fixes really do save headaches.
“I always run the tap for a minute to flush out any debris that might’ve gotten in during the change.”
That’s a solid habit—can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen folks skip that and end up with a rattle or worse, a clogged aerator. I’d just add, double-check for leaks right after swapping valves. Even a tiny drip can turn into a mess if you miss it. Manual valves may not have fancy features, but at least they don’t need firmware updates...
That’s a good call on running the tap—can’t count how many times I’ve seen grit clog up a brand new fixture because someone skipped that step. And you’re right, leaks can sneak up on you. Ever had one of those slow drips that only show up after everything’s put away? Drives me nuts. Curious, do you ever use thread sealant instead of tape on valves? I’ve had mixed results, but some swear by it...
