Emergency Shut-off Valve
Emergency Shut-off Valve | Commercial Plumbing | Plumbing | Hillsboro
When a burst line threatens to flood your warehouse or a tenant accidentally breaks a sprinkler head, every second counts. HEP’s licensed technicians arrive fast, locate the main, and install or engage an emergency shut-off valve that stops water damage in its tracks, saving you thousands in repairs and lost productivity. From tech parks on Evergreen Parkway to retail spaces downtown, we bring the same meticulous craftsmanship and modern leak-detection tools that have made us Hillsboro’s go-to crew for tough, time-sensitive jobs.
Our team doesn’t just solve the crisis—we future-proof your infrastructure. We’ll assess pipe condition, recommend durable valve placements, and document everything for code compliance so insurance claims sail through. Backed by 24/7 dispatch and a fleet stocked with OEM parts, we keep your operation running, protect your bottom line, and prove why HEP is the trusted name in commercial plumbing across Washington County.
FAQs
What is an emergency shut-off valve and why is it important for my Hillsboro commercial property?
An emergency shut-off valve is a manually or automatically operated valve that instantly stops the flow of domestic water, process water, or gas into your building when a leak, burst pipe, fire-sprinkler activation, or seismic event occurs. In a commercial setting it protects inventory, equipment, and occupants, limits water damage that can halt operations, and is required by the Oregon Plumbing Specialty Code (OPSC) as well as the City of Hillsboro’s commercial permitting standards.
How can I tell if my existing shut-off valves meet current code requirements in Hillsboro?
Start by checking that each branch line and the main service line have accessible full-port valves that can be operated without tools. Valves must be rated for the building’s maximum working pressure and bear an NSF-61 or ASTM stamp. If your facility predates the most recent OPSC updates (2017 & 2021 editions), or if shut-off points are concealed above ceilings or behind equipment, schedule a professional inspection. Our licensed journeyman plumbers review valve sizing, material compatibility, handle clearance, and labeling to ensure compliance with Washington County and City of Hillsboro amendments.
What types of emergency shut-off valves do you install for commercial facilities?
We stock and install full-port brass or stainless-steel ball valves (¼–4"), resilient-seated gate valves (4–12"), and high-performance butterfly valves (larger diameters). For specialty applications we provide automatic solenoid or motor-actuated shut-off assemblies that tie into fire-alarm, BAS/BMS, or leak-detection sensors. Earthquake-activated gas shut-off valves, required for some occupancy groups in Oregon, are also available.
Can shut-off valves be automated or integrated with my building management system (BMS)?
Yes. We can add electric or pneumatic actuators to new or existing valves and connect them to Honeywell, Siemens, Johnson Controls, and other BMS platforms. Leak sensors or flow meters send a signal that triggers the valve, isolates the line, and alerts your maintenance staff or monitoring service. Automated valves are especially valuable for unmanned facilities, data centers, and 24/7 operations that cannot afford downtime.
What is the installation process and expected downtime for a retrofit shut-off valve?
1) We perform an on-site assessment to size the valve and locate the best mounting point. 2) Our team obtains any required City of Hillsboro plumbing permits. 3) Work is scheduled during your off-hours; water is isolated for 30–90 minutes for most 2" and under retrofits, and 2–4 hours for larger mains. 4) The new valve is installed, pressure-tested, and labeled. 5) We restore service, flush the system, and file final inspection paperwork.
How often should emergency shut-off valves be inspected or tested?
The OPSC and NFPA 25 recommend annual functional testing for critical isolation valves. For high-use or high-risk facilities (food processors, healthcare, multi-tenant buildings) semi-annual cycling is advisable. During an inspection we exercise the valve through a full open/close cycle, check for leaks at the stem and seats, verify automation signals (if applicable), lubricate seals, and replace worn handles or actuators. Keeping a written log satisfies many insurance and AHJ (Authority Having Jurisdiction) requirements.