Valve Leaking at the Body
Water seeping or spraying from around the valve bonnet, solenoid, or pipe connections indicates worn O-rings, loose bonnet screws, or cracked valve bodies.
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Symptoms
- Water pooling in the valve box even when the zone is off
- Visible dripping from the valve body or solenoid area
- Hissing sound from the valve box
Diagnosis
Most valve leaks come from the bonnet seal (O-ring or gasket), loose screws, a cracked body, or a loose solenoid.
Step-by-Step Repair
- 1
Open the valve box and observe where the water is coming from while the system is pressurized.
- 2
If leaking at the solenoid: tighten the solenoid by hand (clockwise). Check the solenoid O-ring — replace if cracked.
- 3
If leaking at the bonnet: tighten the bonnet screws evenly in a cross pattern.
- 4
If tightening doesn't fix it, turn off water, remove the bonnet, and replace the bonnet O-ring/gasket.
- 5
If the valve body itself is cracked, the entire valve must be replaced. Cut the pipe on either side and install a new valve with couplings.
Parts Needed
- •Zone Valve × 1 — If body is cracked; otherwise an O-ring kit may suffice
- •PVC Coupling × 2 — Needed for full valve replacement
- •PVC Primer & Cement × 1
Pro Tips
- Solenoid O-rings are universal on most brands. Keep spares in your toolbox.
Prevention Tips
- Don't overtighten bonnet screws — you can crack the valve body.
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