Compression, Soldered or Push fit?
 

The shut-off valve to my mom's dishwasher is leaking. I was going to just solder a new one on but only saw industrial style valves at Home Depot.com. Not a problem to put one of those in but with compression and push fit valves readily available, and YT making them look even easier than solder, any reason why I wouldn't use a compression or push fit valve? Seems like a 2 minute job (vs 7 for solder) to put a compression valve on the 1/2" copper pipe, 1 minute for push fit. Yes? No?

I don’t trust push fits. For the extra time it takes to solder it pales in comparison to time cleaning and fixing the damage from a leaky or blown push fit. That’s just my thoughts .

A push fit (Sharkbite) should work fine. They have proven their longevity. I would be hesitant to put one inside a wall that would not be immediately accessible; however, in your case it seems like it would be very easy to get to in the event it fails.

Pay attention to the correct depth to ensure the Sharkbite fully seated and you should be good-to-go, David

Another vote for the press fits, I’ve used both Sharkbite and other big box store brands. The only time I’ve ever had an issue is when I haven’t adequately cleaned and burnished the pipe end. FIL is a contractor and has used them for years, no issues. They also have the advantage of installing when the pipe is wet, which you can’t do with solder. I used them in multiple spots when I was tapping into existing lines, and then will typically solder the rest (first) since they are pricey.

I only use Sharkbite when there is no room to solder, or it's a fire hazard.

So far, I've used one Sharkbite. It went on very easily, and it has not leaked in three years...so, either I think.

Thank you Gentlemen, Sharkbite it is.

Mine are still going strong since 2008, I think you’ll be good.

Now ya done went and did it!! :D

My vote was for sharkbite fittings too. Next would have been compression, and last resort would be soldering.

If you have a friend with a Milwaukee compression tool, go with that. We recently replaced five of our neighbors water heaters and did some in wall repairs for a friend, that tool cut the time to install significantly.

If it’s a typical brass craft speedway valve you can usually buy another one and just swap out the entire stem assembly and not get into replacing the valve body itself. Or see if the stem just needs a new washer, even cheaper fix.

it's been over a week since I put the Shark Bite valve in and it's not leaking. But I'm shocked that it isn't. Watched the videos, cut the old valve off, marked the pipe, pushed it on, it stopped, pushed again very lightly, it slid home and hooked up the dishwasher line. There must be some kind of pressure system that expands the seal because it went on far too easily. And spun easily once on the copper line. I expected water everywhere when I went downstairs to turn the water back on.

It was literally a 5 minute job. Think we saved $250 or so having a plumber come out.

When I installed our new water heater several years ago, I used Shark Bite connectors. They worked great and they have never leaked. Good job!!!

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