Isolation valve (screwhead type) - is it doomed?

[dave22]

I needed to temporarily turn off the isolation valve to my toilet a while ago in September. As I turned the screw, there was a dreaded hiss, and a little water spurted out from around the screw. It didn't last long, and seemed to stop by itself.

Anyway, it's been fine for nearly 3 months (I have some toilet paper wrapped under the valve which would show any leak immediately - bone dry during this time.)

Ideally I'd like to leave the valve alone, not having any plumbing skills. Is it possible, however, that eventually the valve will spontaneously give up the ghost even if the screw isn't turned again? I.e. am I asking for trouble by just leaving it, even though it has been fine for nearly 3 months?

Dave

 

[nickso]

they often do this when turned. if it's not leaking now just leave it. they usually give plenty of warning as they will generally weep before they leak badly.

might be an idea to have a spare for next time you wish to turn it off although it's often simpler just to use the mains stopcock for doing anything.

 

[dave22]

Thanks for the reassurance - I will leave well alone and forget about it...
Dave