Maintaining Cleanout/Shutoff Valves

The valves themselves should be protected from the sun, vandalism, etc. by some type of valve box.  If the valve is located in a high-traffic area, you may want a box that has a locking top.  If the valve is more remote, you’ll want some type of cover to protect against the elements (UV rays, machetes, livestock).

See the principal valve box section for box construction. In case the valve fails, it will need to be replaced. See section on PVC connections for more information.

Installing Cleanout/Shutoff Valves

Time Required
Less than 1 hour for installation

Materials List

Qty	Item	Notes
1	Valve	Dependent on size of tube at valve location
1	Cloth rag	For cleaning before gluing
1	Can of PVC glue

Construction
Installing the valves are pretty straightforward.  Cut into the tubes and install as needed.  This picture can be used as a guide.  This setup allows for the system to be shutoff and the cleanout opened so that the entire flow is redirected out the cleanout valve.  Cleanout valves can also be installed without a corresponding shutoff valve.

Designing Cleanout/Shutoff Valves

Why is it Needed

Shutoff valves are needed for system maintenance. There should be a shutoff valve at the intake structure(s), storage tank, and at the start of the distribution system if the tank is located away from the community.

Cleanout valves should be installed throughout the system in low points in the system or along long, flat runs where sediment can build up in the pipes. Opening the cleanout valve should be part of the quarterly maintenance program in the community.

Design

The picture to the left shows a cleanout valve and shutoff valve. The system can be shutoff so that all water leaves through the cleanout valve. A Y-shaped branch would be preferred to the T shown in the picture to put less stress on the fitting.