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I am planning to install an 'add-on' bidet to one of my toilet fixtures. The existing cut-off valve is a gate (?) multi-turn valve (chrome) which is connected to a 1/2" copper male adapter. (the house plumbing is Copper). While I am adding the bidet, I want to replace the 34yr old gate valve with a 1/4 turn ball valve. There is a stainless steel ball valve available. My question: any issues connecting stainless steel to copper? Or should I use a chrome ball valve (assuming I can find one). Home Depot/Lowes didn't have either a 1/2x1/2 ball valve or a 3/8x3/8 one. (all they had was compression).I don't think using a threaded sch40 ball valve would look very good although it would probably be 1/2 the cost. Should I be concerned about using dissimilar metals (corrosion on the copper?)

I will be installing a Tee at the base of the tank to provide a 3/8 NPT male connection to a 3/8" 1/4 turn ball valve to feed the bidet add-on (so that I can easily cut it off while my grandchildren are visiting to avoid a flooded bathroom from kids playing with the bidet).

The biggest hassle I foresee is draining the water out of pipes to be able to disconnect the existing 1/2" gate valve, because the house is 2 story and the toilet in question is on the 1st floor.

Any advice/tips on performing the job? I'm concerned about accidentally messing up the copper male adapter when taking of the 34yr old chrome valve.

peinal
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2 Answers2

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Draining answer

After the main valve is closed, open a faucet closest to the main valve than open a faucet furthest away from main vale (second floor). That would create a drain path with drain vent allowing the water to drain. Meanwhile close the valves on the water heater since you do not want to drain it.

Galvanic answer

You are aware of it and do not have to be concerned, it will not impact your instal.

DIY75
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I like the stainless valve. The "chrome " are very likely chrome plated brass , which will work. Because brass and stainless are corrosion resistant in potable water, neither will corrode to cause a cathodic cell. There is a possibility that very old chrome plated valve is bronze which could be more corrosion resistant than brass. Likely only academic interest.

blacksmith37
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