Isolating Power showers - stopcock query

[jimmy2227]

Hi guys,

Got a quick query - hope you can help.
I am replacing the power showers in the en-suite and bathroom - found the gate valves from hot tank and cold tank - result!
Latter is straight from the bottom of cold tank and tees off for the bathroom and en-suite - can follow pipework in loft-space.

Problem is I have closed the valves, but when I run the shower to clear pipes, the water still appears to flow (cold, so assume cold tank feed). Anticipate it would not take long to clear? Interestingly, it sounds as though the cold tank is filling despite the gate closure - surely this shouldn't happen?.

Both valves free, lubricated and turn stop to stop. I don't really want to drain the cold tank completely to avoid airlock.
Am I missing a trick, or can I assume the cold gate faulty, so get the dreaded pipe-freeze kit out? Thanks

Untitled

• jimmy2227
• 28 Apr 2013
• 1

Untitled

• jimmy2227
• 28 Apr 2013
• 1

 

[petertheplumber12]

Gate valves are notorious for not closing properly, they are best used for controlling the flow rather than opening or shutting. You can get a tapered rubber bung, sold in pairs. Inside the tank where the fitting for the pipe outlet is, push the tapered bung into the hole and that will shut the water off.

 

[jimmy2227]

Thanks petertheplumber12 - will give that a go. Much appreciated.