frozen ball valves

In areas with high mineral content water, the shut-off valves under the sink and behind the toilet freeze up after a few years. Forcing the handle never ends well. Waiting for a split line and then forcing the valve is much worse.

New ball valves cost around $10 and I can't argue with replacing frozen valves when they stick. I did one yesterday. But rather than toss the frozen valves, I put it in a glass jar along with about 1 cup of water and 1 cup of vinegar. After 12 hours, the valve moves like new. I'm now soaking my second valve.

Rick

Vinegar is as useful in the shop as it is in the kitchen.

The alkaline batteries in my desk clock leaked their guts out. The battery compartment had white "stuff" all over the plastic. So I'm thinking "alkaline" implies there might be a favorable reaction with a mild acid. I dipped a cotton swab in vinegar and, voila, the "stuff" disappeared. A little work on the metal contacts with a Cratex tip in the Dremel and some NiMh rechargeable batteries (which don't seem to ever leak) and the clock is ready for another few years.

To me the main issue is: Don't let the shut-off valves surprise you. Change the inserts, say, every 3 or 4 years. Don't fear to be perceived as 'square': Put a tag on them: Last changed xxx.