This is why I like having all the tools for each particular type of job (e.g. fencing, plumbing, electrical, etc.) whenever possible, in some kind of consolidated kit, or at a minimum in a consolidated location. Seppi and I were able to grab the tools and get this job knocked out in about 10 minutes.
The white PEX line coming from the box connects the house water to the outdoor irrigation system. Since we now have rain collection hooked up to that system, we do not want any possibility of rainwater diffusing or being forced back up the line into the house. So we bought a check valve, which is essentially two one-way valves in a series inside a brass pipe, which in turn connects to the PEX by a crimp connector on either end. The two valves provide redundancy. As Seppi is fond of reminding me, “Two is one and one is none!”
I wonder where he learned that…
Simple job, we just made sure the water was off and the line drained (it already was because we’ve had a few nearly freezing nights) and then we cut the line, measured the valve to the remaining line and cut that section out. Then we inserted the crimp connectors, crimped them down, making sure the arrow was pointing in direction of flow (that would be very awkward if it were not) and then turned it on. It worked as advertised.
Lastly, we checked for leaks (none found) and zip tied a double layer of pipe insulation around it, put our tools away, and went on about our day.
Little Farm in the Big City 