How to Replace a Main Water Shut-Off Valve in Pittsburgh

How to Replace a Main Water Shut-Off Valve in Pittsburgh

Every home in Pittsburgh has a main water shut-off valve — usually located just inside where the water line enters the home, before the water meter.

This valve is the “master control” of your home’s plumbing system. If a pipe bursts, a toilet overflows, or a faucet won’t stop leaking, this is the one valve that can turn everything off.

But what happens if your shut-off valve itself is leaking, seized, or broken? You can’t safely control your water supply — which means it’s time for a replacement.

In this guide, we’ll explain:

• How the process of replacing a main shut-off valve works in Pittsburgh

• Why you must call the water company first before any plumber touches it

• Signs your valve is failing

• What to expect during the replacement process

• Common homeowner questions like “Can I replace my main shut-off valve myself?” and “How much does it cost?”

🚰 Why the Main Water Shut-Off Valve Matters

Your main shut-off valve is the gateway between your home and the city’s water supply. It allows you (and your plumber) to stop the flow of water into your house in emergencies or when plumbing repairs are needed.

When it fails, you may notice:

• A constant drip or leak around the handle

• A valve that won’t turn at all (frozen/stuck)

• A valve that turns but doesn’t actually stop the water

• Corrosion, rust, or visible damage

A faulty valve is more than an inconvenience — it’s a flood risk. Without it, you can’t isolate your home’s water supply, leaving you helpless during emergencies.

⚠️ Step One: Call the Water Company Before a Plumber

Here’s the most important thing every Pittsburgh homeowner needs to know:

👉 You cannot replace the main shut-off valve without first having the water company shut off water at the curb (curb stop).

Why?

• The shut-off valve is located on the customer side of the meter, but it’s still connected directly to the city’s pressurized line.

• A plumber cannot safely remove or replace the valve while the line is live.

• Only the water company has access to the curb stop (the underground shut-off at the street/sidewalk) where the entire service line can be turned off.

For Pittsburgh residents, this typically means calling Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority (PWSA) or your local water authority (e.g., Wilkinsburg-Penn Joint Water Authority, PA American Water, West View Water, etc.). They will schedule a time to shut off the water at the curb so your plumber can work safely.

💡 Tip: Call the water company before scheduling your plumber, or schedule them in coordination. Otherwise, your plumber may arrive but be unable to work.

They usually can shut off and restore your water service in Pittsburgh all in one day to allow your plumber to change the valve and have water restored by the end of the day.

🛠️ The Process of Replacing a Main Shut-Off Valve in Pittsburgh

Here’s a step-by-step overview of what happens:

1. Call the Water Company

• Request a shut-off at the curb.

• Some authorities require advance notice or a service fee.

• Ask about scheduling availability — some can come same-day, others may need a few days.

2. Schedule Your Plumber

• Once you know when the water will be shut off, book your plumber.

• In emergencies (like a valve leaking badly), the plumber and water company may coordinate directly for immediate service.

3. Water Company Shuts Off Service

• A technician arrives and closes the curb stop (the underground valve at the street).

• This stops water entering your house completely.

4. Plumber Removes the Old Valve

• The plumber drains remaining water from the line.

• They cut out the old shut-off valve, which may be corroded, frozen, or leaking.

5. Plumber Installs the New Valve

• Most plumbers recommend upgrading to a ball valve instead of the old gate valve.

• Ball valves last longer, are easier to turn, and provide a reliable seal.

• The new valve is installed with proper fittings and tested for leaks.

6. Water Company Restores Service

• Once the plumber finishes, the water authority reopens the curb stop.

• The plumber checks for proper operation and ensures your meter is working correctly.

🏠 FAQ: Common Questions Pittsburgh Homeowners Ask About Replacing Their Main Shut Off Valve

💡 Do I need to call the water company to replace my main shut-off valve?

Yes. The water company must turn off service at the curb before a plumber can safely replace the valve.

🛠️ Can I replace my main shut-off valve myself?

Legally, no — and practically, it’s not safe. Not only does the water company need to shut off service, but replacing the valve requires plumbing expertise, proper permits, and often inspection.

💲 How much does it cost to replace a main shut-off valve in Pittsburgh?

Costs typically range from $450–$750, depending on accessibility, pipe condition, and if other work (like meter upgrades) is required. Emergency after-hours service may cost more.

🕒 How long does it take to replace a shut-off valve?

The job itself usually takes 1–2 hours, not including coordination time with the water company.

🏠 Where is my main water shut-off valve located?

Usually in the basement or lowest level of the house, near where the water line enters from the street. It’s positioned just before the water meter.

🔧 Why Upgrade to a Ball Valve?

Older homes in Pittsburgh often have gate valves — the wheel-handle type. These corrode, seize up, and fail to shut off properly.

Modern ball valves have a lever handle and rotate 90 degrees to open/close fully. They are:

• Easier to operate (even for kids/elderly in emergencies)

• Longer lasting with fewer internal parts

• Better at creating a watertight seal

When you replace your main shut-off, always choose a ball valve upgrade.

🌆 Local Notes for Pittsburgh Homeowners

• Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority (PWSA): Most city homes are serviced by PWSA. Call them directly to schedule shut-off/turn-on.

• Wilkinsburg-Penn Joint Water Authority & PA American Water: If you live outside the city, contact your local water provider.

• Frozen Pipes Risk: In winter, frozen service lines can complicate valve replacements. Always have a professional handle it.

🚨 What to Do If Your Shut-Off Valve Is Leaking

If you notice your valve leaking but haven’t scheduled a replacement yet:

1. Put a bucket or towel underneath to catch drips.

2. Avoid turning the valve — sometimes turning it makes leaks worse.

3. Call the water company to schedule a shut-off, then call your plumber.

4. If it’s leaking heavily, let both know it’s an emergency.

   
   

🛡️ Why Choose Revelation Plumbing for Shut-Off Valve Replacement

When it comes to something as critical as your home’s water supply, you want a licensed, trusted plumber. Revelation Plumbing is Pittsburgh’s Knight in Shining Armor when it comes to emergency plumbing services.

Here’s why homeowners call us:

• ⭐ 5-Star Rated on Google

• 🏆 A-Rated with the BBB

• 📜 Licensed Master Plumber with 10+ years of experience

• 💵 No Service Fees – free in-home estimates

• ⚡ Same-Day Service Available – especially for emergencies

• 📸 Before & After Documentation – so you know the job was done right

We don’t just replace shut-off valves — we restore your peace of mind.

✅ Final Takeaway

Replacing your main water shut-off valve in Pittsburgh isn’t as simple as twisting a wrench. Because the valve is tied directly to your water service, you must call the water company first to shut off supply at the curb.

From there, a licensed plumber can safely remove the old valve, install a reliable new ball valve, and test your system to make sure your home is protected.

👉 If you’re a Pittsburgh homeowner searching “main shut-off valve replacement” or “who do I call to turn off my water before replacing the shut-off valve?” — Revelation Plumbing has you covered.

📞 Call us today for expert shut-off valve replacement in Pittsburgh.