Common Valve Plumbing Issues in Dubai and How to Fix Them

Understanding Valve Plumbing and Its Importance

Plumbing Valves control the pressure, direction and amount of water through a structure (Housing or Commercial Building). Valves serve as the gatekeeper of your water pipes by controlling how much water passes through your plumbing and keeping your plumbing systems running properly. While small and seemingly simple, valves protect your property from large water leaks, pipe bursts, flooding and pressure-related damages.

As a result of the fast-paced growth of the real estate sector and the significant presence of different types of architectural designs in the City of Dubai, there has been a great increase in demand for a reliable plumbing valve system. With the construction of higher buildings that are experiencing higher water pressures, it is more imperative than ever that the plumbing industry be able to depend on properly installed valves. If the valves fail to operate properly in the beginning, the eviction notices issued for customers who live in the building due to the improper installation of a valve could take months to complete. The long term impact, however, can lead to increased monthly water bills, mold growth on damp walls, ceiling collapse, and other associated damages.

What Is Valve Plumbing and How It Works

Valves installed at the foundation of every water line(s) throughout a structure will effectively control the flow and amount of water that can be delivered to the structure. When a fixture breaks, valves will isolate the leaking section of the pipe without needing to shut off the entire water supply to the entire structure. Valves, at the same time, will direct water toward heaters, kitchen, bathrooms, outdoor areas, and stores. In order to have a water network that will have zero interruption in flow of water while the structure remains healthy, an effective valve installation will produce an easier to maintain, safer to operate, and more energy-efficient water distribution network.

Types of Valves Used in Residential and Commercial Plumbing

Dubai has several different valve types used for different types of buildings and water control needs. The most commonly used valve types include gate, ball, butterfly, and pressure-reducing valves. Large-scale commercial new construction plumbing typically uses heavy-duty industrial-grade (high-temperature/high-press.) valves. On the other hand, residential properties generally require more precise and easier-to-use valves for heating/cooling, kitchen sinks and bathrooms.

Why a Reliable Valve Plumbing System Is Critical in Dubai

In addition to drinkable water produced using sea-water desalination that travels long distances through a pipeline, Dubai’s water supplies also contain minerals (salts) that can quickly corrode valve bodies. Because of the high-rise nature of Dubai’s buildings and their reliance upon complex plumbing networks, even one failed valve can disrupt water usage on several floors. In contrast, a well-designed and functional plumbing system eliminates the probability of wasting valuable water resources; protecting your property from costly and time-consuming structural failures due to mold growth, etc.

Most Common Valve Plumbing Issues in Dubai Homes

The harsh climate, poor water quality and extreme amounts of water use contribute to the prevalence of valve failure in Dubai. Other reasons why there seems to be a high incidence of plumbing failure in Dubai are due to improper installation and neglect / maintenance of plumbing systems by homeowners. If you understand the signs of failure early, you can save yourself thousands in repairs and prevent injuries due to leaks or flooding from your home.

Because many water valves do not reveal their problems immediately, most people will notice only minor warning signs like dripping water or decreased water pressure, while the internal mechanism has already begun to fail. If you know what to look for, it gives you the opportunity to be proactive, rather than reactive when dealing with your plumbing issues.

Water Pressure Problems Caused by Faulty Valves

The malfunction of valves causes either too little pressure (which prevents water from flowing correctly through your kitchen, bathroom and laundry appliances) or too much pressure (which can cause pipes and/or other fixtures and appliances to fail). Mechanical wear and mineral buildup are common causes of valve malfunction.

Leaking Valves and Continuous Dripping

Dripping water faucets can waste thousands of litres of water every year, causing you to incur exorbitant amounts of money on your DEWA utility bills. In addition, even small leaks indicate a failure in the internal components of the valve (the sealing surfaces or valves themselves) and may require valve plumbing repair Depending on how long the leak continues, moisture will migrate into walls, ceilings and floors.

Corroded Valves Due to Hard Water in Dubai

Dripping water faucets can waste thousands of litres of water every year, causing you to incur exorbitant amounts of money on your DEWA utility bills. In addition, even small leaks indicate a failure in the internal components of the valve (the sealing surfaces or valves themselves) and may require valve plumbing repair Depending on how long the leak continues, moisture will migrate into walls, ceilings and floors.

 

Professional Solutions for Valve Plumbing Repair

Valve repairs require the technical knowledge, skills, experience and the right tools to properly repair valves. Although the initial cost of performing your own valve repairs may seem like an affordable alternative, the improper handling of valves will result in significantly larger repair costs in the future. Professional plumbers who specialize in providing Valve plumbing repair provide you with a complete assessment of the valve components, as well as correct replacement, reconditioning and accurate testing of all valve components.

A qualified technician will assess whether to repair the valves, or assess if the valves is structurally safe to repair, or if a complete valve replacement is necessary. In doing so, the technician also reduces your risk of future repairs, and will save you money. Certified technicians comply with Dubai municipality building safety regulations.

When to Replace vs. Repair a Damaged Valve

If the issue is minor (such as worn-out seals or loose parts) then it would be less costly to repair the valve than to replace it.  If the issue is serious (e.g., severe corrosion) or if the handle mechanism is malfunctioning, then replacing the valve will be more efficient.

Tools and Techniques Used in Valve Plumbing Repair

A professional valve repair service will provide specialized tools to diagnose and repair your valve. By using wrenches, specialized cutting tools, PTFE sealing tape, silicone lubrication and advanced diagnostic instruments, our professionals can identify internal problems without damaging the Pipeline. Additionally, using heat and pressure tested products will give our customers peace of mind, knowing that their valves are installed to meet safety requirements.

Benefits of Hiring Valve Plumbing Services in Dubai

The best way to be assured of an accurate diagnosis, warranty backed solutions and adherence to municipal codes is to use a certified provider of Valve Plumbing Services.  Our professionals know how to pinpoint the root cause of your issues, not just treat the symptoms, so your valves are functioning properly, even under the extreme conditions of Dubai.

 

Emergency Valve Plumbing – What to Do Before Help Arrives

Unforeseen emergencies such as ruptured pipes, sudden leaks or faulty shut-off valves can cause damage to your property and result in expensive repair costs.  A quick reaction from the homeowners will mitigate property damage and prevent thousands of dollars of repair bills. Therefore having access to emergency valve plumbing assistance will be very beneficial; especially for those living in apartments or villas.

In high-pressure pipeline systems, time is of the essence. In order to contain or minimize water damage until a professional plumber arrives, you should be prepared for what to do should a plumbing emergency occur. Taking simple steps such as turning off the main supply line will minimize flooding and avoid short circuits.

How to Shut Off the Main Water Supply Correctly

Keep the main shutoff valve location handy. By turning it in a clockwise direction, you can immediately stop the flow of water in the event of a plumbing emergency, thus minimizing damage caused by leaks. If you live in a high-rise building, make sure you know where the building’s shutoff valve is located.

Quick Temporary Fixes for Sudden Leaks

Patching leaks temporarily before calling a plumber can be accomplished using rubber patches, plumber’s tape or thick cloth insulation. Temporary solutions are not equivalent to professional repairs. A leak from one unit in a high-rise can also travel through the walls and into multiple floors, so having a way to close off a section of the building from future leaks is important.

Why Emergency Valve Plumbing Is Essential in High-Rise Buildings

In addition to the aforementioned reasons for having an emergency valve plumbing system, these systems help with preserving the structural stability of the building and preventing any possible electrical hazards.

 

Choosing Affordable Valve Plumbing Without Risking Quality

Utilizing an affordable option does not equate to a lower-priced product. An efficient work process, local sourcing of materials and skilled workforce will help reduce the overall cost while providing quality service and longer lasting performance.

Repairing a valve will generally save you money; however, if the valve’s internal structure is eroded and/or the manufacturer no longer makes replacement parts, the replacement of the valve should be the default option.

What Makes Affordable Valve Plumbing Still Reliable

Annual maintenance service will help to avoid fixable emergencies and will increase the life expectancy of your valve. It is also less expensive to maintain than to pay for excessive replacements that would occur as a result of neglect.

Cost Comparison: Repair vs. Valve Replacement Plumbing

If the valve is still relatively new then repairing it can be less expensive; however, Plumbing Valve Replacement would be a better choice for value when the inside of a valve has become eroded or if manufacturers have stopped producing replacement parts for their Valve plumbing.     

How Regular Valve Maintenance Saves Future Costs

Having valves serviced on a regular basis keeps them from failing or creating an emergency, and prolongs the life of the valve, therefore lowering the cost of the repair. Regular maintenance is generally less expensive than needing to replace the valve due to neglect, or a larger expense due to requiring a complete replacement.

 

Preventive Maintenance Tips for a Healthy Valve Plumbing System

To ensure that your Valves Plumbing operates effectively, it is very important that you carry out the necessary preventative maintenance. In Dubai, because of high humidity and hard water, valves are susceptible to metal failing. It is therefore very important that homeowners do a regular inspection of their valves.                                                             

Commonly, smaller problems like minor leaking and stiffness in handles are the first signs of larger problems on the horizon.

Cleaning, lubricating, and exercising (opening and closing your valve regularly) allows valve mechanical parts to remain operational. Also, when valves are maintained by professional technicians, internal rust, sediment, and pressure surges are prevented.

Routine Inspection Checklist for Homeowners

Symptoms of needed service include leaks around valves, noise when water is turned on, rust around the valve, and handles that do not turn smoothly.

How Dubai’s Climate Affects Valves and Water Systems

Metal expands or contracts due to heat, and due to salt air corrosion occurs rapidly. Hard water leaves mineral buildup inside of the valves and in the valve pathways.

The Role of Professional Annual Servicing

Technicians use special tools to disassemble and clean valves and to reseal valves after they test them. Having valves serviced on a yearly basis ensures that they are safe and do not cause an emergency.

 

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. What are the signs that my valve needs repair or replacement?

Valves that display any of the following indicators; leaks, rust, noise, or difficulty turning, should receive immediate attention.

2. Can Affordable valve plumbing still offer long-lasting solutions?

As long as qualified technicians have installed quality materials, that is NOT critical.

3. How does Emergency valve plumbing service help during major leaks?

The ability to stop an immediate flood from occurring and causing damage and safety issues.

4. How often should homeowners check their valve plumbing system?

All Dubai properties should have inspections to ensure their quality on an annual basis.

5. What is the normal lifespan of a valve in Dubai conditions?

Most valves will endure approximately 8-12 years of service life, based on several key factors: 1) the materials used to manufacture the valve and 2) how much maintenance has been performed on the valve throughout its life.

Conclusion

While it is important for homeowners in Dubai to have a reliable valve plumbing system for safety and to keep the cost of plumbing to a minimum, it is also essential for homeowners to maintain a reliable water supply. Properly maintained, the water in Dubai suffers from high mineral content (hard water) caused by extreme temperatures and heavy usage (due to Dubai’s large population). Valves that suffer from hard water, as well as extreme temperature fluctuations, need to be regularly inspected and serviced by a professional. Whether the need is for affordable valve plumbing upkeep or a complete valve replacement for older plumbing systems, the sooner a homeowner can detect an issue, the less likely they will have to pay for an expensive repair in the event that there is a plumbing emergency. By ensuring that they fully understand the issues affecting a valve, the importance of preventive maintenance and services performed by trusted professionals, Dubai homeowners can maintain a safe and effective plumbing system, to ultimately ensure a long-lasting supply of water.