We’ve got a malfunctioning valve. Instead of replacing the entire valve, we’re going to replace the internal parts and the valve top. Let’s get started.

How To Replace The Top Of A Valve

You don’t necessarily have to replace the entire valve if you’ve got a malfunctioning valve. If the valve body is cracked, which is rare, or if the valve you’re replacing is no longer available for purchase then you would have to replace the entire valve. Otherwise, you can replace the top and internals. To do this you’ll need the exact same model of valve. We’ll start by pulling out the valve box. Cut the wires going to the solenoid and unscrew the solenoid from the valve.

Water will seep out of the hole in the valve where you unscrewed the solenoid. And even more water from the pipes in the zone will come out when removing the valve top. You’ll need a siphon pump to pull water from the hole to keep working. There are jar top valves, which can be opened by hand, but this is a bolt-on valve top. So, we’ll need to use a screwdriver.

Our technician is using a drill with a screwdriver bit to unscrew the top. If you use a drill you’ll want to have it on the slower speed and turn the clutch to the lowest setting to avoid stripping the screw holes on the valve. If you strip out the screw hole, you absolutely will have to replace the entire valve. When you open up the valve pay attention to the way the diaphragm and any other loose internals are situated in the valve so you can replace them oriented correctly. Now we’re ready to put the top back on.

Once again, be careful to not strip the screws when reinstalling the top of the valve. Screw the new solenoid in place. Take care to not cross-thread the solenoid. Reattach the wires. It does not matter which wire coming from the solenoid connects to the hot and which connects to the common. Twist the wires together and always use waterproof wire connectors. Replace the valve box and backfill the hole.

Add The New Top Of A Valve

Turn off the water to your system at the backflow or the main valve. Relieve the pressure by either turning on one zone of your system or turning the solenoid one-half turn. Now we’re ready to put the new top on. Otherwise, you can replace the top and internals. To do this you’ll need the exact same model of valve. You could buy the parts separately. The solenoid and diaphragm are available for purchase for most valves. However, it’s cheaper and more effective to simply purchase a whole valve. Which will come with the new diaphragm solenoid, screws, and spring.