Installing Shut Off Valve on copper pipes

[flicker55]

I'm installing shut off valves on 1/2" copper pipes running from the floor to my kitchen faucet. These are compression valves. Do I have to bleed water from the pipes like you do when you are using solder or can I just make sure the water supply is shut off to my upstairs?

[jadnashua]

Just make sure you shut off the water. You need two wrenches, one to hold the valve from spinning, and the second one to turn the compression nut. Some people find a small drop of oil on the threads means you get a little smoother action when tightening the nut, but is not required.

[flicker55]

Thank you for the advice. I'm grateful.

[got_nailed]

I like to cut off about 1/2” of the old copper and sand them down a bit before I put new compression fittings on. I don’t know if it is needed but it’s one of my habits.