Stopcock valve leaks when closed but nothing when open

[MisterX]

Hi all,

I have a query in relation to stopcock valves for the main cold water supply into the flat just before the water meter inside the flat.

I noticed that when closed it’s dripping slightly at the stem, however, when I open it fully again it stops completely. I have checked this for a couple of hours and it seemed fine. Is this likely to remain this way?

The flat will be empty for a couple of weeks and I left it the valve open as I was in a hurry and it stoped leaking but now a I am getting second thoughts that it may start leaking even when the valve is open.

Do you think this is going to be an issue?

Thanks all for your advice in advance!

 

[ShaunCorbs]

Yes tbh normal wants the stop tap gland to be re packed

 

[Ric2013]

Could be packing needs redoing, could be the gland nut needs tightening, could be the valve spindle isn't uniform in diameter and so it leaks when the narrower part is inside the gland seal. If it hasn't leaked in two hours, it's unlikely to start now.

 

[MisterX]

Ok thats helpful. I am just trying to weigh out the likelihood of it starting to drip whilst I am not around.

 

[adonis]

If you are concerned place a bowl or something under it, maybe wrap a narrow piece of material or string around it so it hangs into the bowl.

They generally stop dripping after a while especially in a hard water area.