Where to Find Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve
- The shut-off valve is almost always located near the perimeter of your home. ...
- Forget the upstairs, too, as shut-off valves are going to be located on the ground floor. ...
- Water lines usually run from the water main to the shut-off valve with no extra piping or detours. ...
- During the purchase of a house, an inspection report is supplied. ...
Where do I Turn Off the water to my house?
Turn off your home’s main water supply.
- Locate the valve. The water main shutoff valve could be in a number of places, depending on the age of your home and the climate of your location.
- Turn off the water. To turn the water supply off, give a gate valve a few turns clockwise until you can’t turn it any longer.
- Run the taps. ...
- Turn the water back on. ...
How to shut off water in your home?
Method 2 of 3: Stopping the Water Supply to Your Home
- Identify the main shut off valve. This is usually a brass valve that has a round handle. ...
- Shut the valve by turning it clockwise. This will cut off the stream of water flowing into your home.
- Turn on all of the faucets to flush the remaining water in the system. ...
- Run all water lines and water-using appliances. ...
How to find the main water shutoff valve?
- The shutoff valve is usually located near the perimeter.
- Keep your eyes on the grade. ...
- Follow a line connecting the water meter to your house. ...
- Sometimes, the shut-off valve is hidden behind a panel of plastic.
- A PEX plumbing manifold, a type that collects water from pipes, is being used more often in modern homes. ...
Where is my main water shut off in my mobile home?
- Look for the Main Water Pipe. ...
- Locate the Main Shutoff Valve (s) Somewhere along the main water pipe, there will be a valve that serves to control all water flow into the home.
- Close the Valve. ...
- (Optional) Turn off the Water at the Water Meter. ...
Where is the water shut off valve located?
What to do if you can't find water shut off valve?
How to clean a water meter?
What to do if you have a leak in your toilet?
Where to find shut off valve on property inspection?
How to turn off a ball valve?
How to track water lines to house?
See 2 more
Can't find my main water shut-off valve?
0:041:43How to Find Your Water Shut-Off Valve & Use It - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIn warmer climates the shut-off valve is likely just outside the house and near an outside faucet inMoreIn warmer climates the shut-off valve is likely just outside the house and near an outside faucet in newer homes you'll find a valve that looks like this to turn off the water.
How do I shut off the main water supply to my house?
1:282:47How Do I Shut Off the Main Water Supply to My House? - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipEither the me turkey or the crescent wrench on the valve. And turn it clockwise. Like. So your waterMoreEither the me turkey or the crescent wrench on the valve. And turn it clockwise. Like. So your water should now be shutoff throughout your home then to release pressure from the pipes.
Where can I find the water shut-off valve?
Common Residential Water Shut-Off Valves They are usually located where the water pipe enters the room, such as behind the toilet or under the sink. This allows easy water shut-off to the fixture for maintenance and repair without having to turn water off to the entire home.
Where does water main Come Into house?
With less risk of freezing pipes, the water main usually enters the house from the street level. The main water shutoff valve can likely be found outside of the home and accessed either above or below ground. Above ground, attached to an exterior wall of the house.
How do you know if your main water valve is on?
Shut off the water by turning the ball valve 1/4 turn to make it perpendicular to the water pipe. If the ball valve is parallel, it is ON; if it is perpendicular (90° angle), it is OFF. The water meter should also be able to tell you if you have a plumbing leak somewhere in your home.
What does the outside water shut-off valve look like?
Look for a rectangular or round cover that will be near the edge of your property, often between the curb and the sidewalk. Some water main valves are located along an alley, rather than the street. The cover may be metal or plastic, and it might say “water meter” to help with identification.
Do all houses have a water shut-off valve?
Every home was required to have a main water shut-off valve installed inside the home when it was built. For most emergencies or repairs, shutting off the proper inside valve is all you will need to do. However, there are also underground shut-off valves installed outside at the property line.
Do older houses have water shut off valves?
Types of Water Shut Off Valves Gate valves (top) are common in older homes. The valve closes when a wedge-shaped brass gate is lowered into a slot.
How many water valves does a house have?
twoEvery home has two main water shutoff valves: one inside the house and the other by where your property meets the street. The simplest way to shut off all water running through your house is to know where the main valve is located inside your house.
Is the main water line connected to the water heater?
Next, in the house, the main water connects to the water heater. At the water heater, the water line splits in two. One branches off for cold water, while the other stays connected for hot water. The cold water line splits from the water heater, and directly has connections to each water appliance.
What does the main water line connect to?
The water main connects to your private water service line, which is typically located below ground on your private property. The water service line should not be confused with your private sewer lateral, which transports used wastewater and sewage away from your home.
Where do water pipes run in a house?
Cold water service lines run directly to every water fixture and appliance in your home. Plumbers install these pipes in straight lines, 90-degree angles, or slight downward slopes to facilitate easier flow.
Should I leave faucets open after shutting off water?
After turning off the supply shutoff, open the outside faucets to drain the remaining water out of the pipes. Never leave a hose connected to an outdoor faucet: It traps water in the faucet, which can freeze and crack open the faucet.
Why is my water still running after main shut off?
In case your water still runs after being shut off, there could be a couple of potential causes. Of course, in order to fix the problem, it is crucial to identify it, but it is most likely an issue with the seal. If the faucet isn't sealed properly, this will definitely cause a leak.
How do you turn off water with Curb key?
1:423:09How To Shut Water Off At The Curb - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipKey there's a few different names for it. But that's what it is it's a large t-handle with a u-MoreKey there's a few different names for it. But that's what it is it's a large t-handle with a u-shaped fitting on the bottom. And that allows you to access the valve that's usually deep in the ground.
How do I turn off the water at my house from the street?
1:253:16How to shut your water off at the curb - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe water valve is going to be in between the meter face and the curb usually when you've uncoveredMoreThe water valve is going to be in between the meter face and the curb usually when you've uncovered it it will have an arrow on the top showing the direction of flow.
Physically Search For The Cut Off Valve
Search for your house's main water cut off or shut off valve. Stay on the inside of the house and look around the perimeter of the house, on the si...
Search Your Property Inspection Report
If you still cannot find the cut off valve after physically searching for it, an alternative is to check the property inspection report that was co...
Locate The Streetside Valve
There is another valve located at the beginning of your water main, at the boundary line of your property and the street or sidewalk. Find the grou...
Turning Off Water in Your Home: Detailed Instructions
If you have a water leak or just need to turn off the water in your home for remodeling or repairs, you must turn off your water upstream at some p...
Try to Cut Off Water Close to Source
If you have a leak in your toilet, sink, clothes washer, or bathtub (with exposed plumbing), your first option should be to shut off water close to...
Water Main: Locate Water Cut Off Valve within The House
Shutting off the water at the cut off valve located within the house is the best option. It will cut off your home's entire water supply, allowing...
Water Main: Locate Water Cut Off Valve Outside by Meter
If the previous two options fail, try to shut off the water main outside.This will cut off all water in the house. This is the most drastic option...
Where is the Main Water Shut Off in a House?
If you need to carry out plumbing repairs in your house or there is a leak and you need to immediately turn off the water, you need to know where the main water shut off valve is located.
Where is the main water shut off valve located?
Your main water shut off valve is usually located in the basement, crawlspace, garage or utility room near the water heater. In warmer climates, the valve could also be located on an external wall where the main water line enters the house from the street.
How to turn off water valve?
To turn off the main water shut off valve, you will need to turn the valve all the way clockwise if you have a gate valve (with a wheel handle). If you have a ball valve (operated by a lever), turn the lever until it is at 90 degrees to the water supply pipe.
Where is the shut off valve located?
In instances where the shut off valve is located outside the house , it will be on the external wall outside of where the water heater is installed. It could also be very close to the street near the water meter.
How to turn a gate valve clockwise?
If you have a gate valve, grab the wheel with your hand and turn it clockwise all the way. On the other hand if you have a ball valve, move the lever so that it is perpendicular to the water pipe.
How to stop water from leaking from a valve?
You may also notice water dripping from the valve once you turn it off. In that case, use a wrench to tighten the valve’s packing nut and you will notice that the leaking will stop.
Where is the valve on a basement floor?
In most cases, the valve will be high off the floor, usually at eye-level or even higher. It could also be very close to the basement floor. There is no standard for where or how these valves are installed.
Where is the main water shut off valve located?
Where to Find the Main Water Shut-Off Valve. The shut-off valve is almost always located near the perimeter of your home. There’s no need to check the central portions of the house. Forget the upstairs too, as shut-off valves are going to be located on the ground floor. For those with basements, it will usually be located here.
Where does the water line run?
Water lines usually run from the water main to the shut-off valve with no extra piping or detours. Therefore, if you know where you water main is, see where the shortest path to your home would be. The valve is more than likely located here. During the purchase of a house, an inspection report is supplied.
What direction should the washer be turned?
Washing machine – Behind every washing machine should be two valves and sometimes a lever. Both of these valves should be turned clockwise (or the lever should be switched the other way) in order to cease water from flowing. If you don’t see these valves or lever, you may have to pull out the washer from the wall a bit.
How to stop water from leaking from a faucet?
Sink – Underneath the sink in the cabinet, there will be a small shut-off valve (similar to the toilet). During a pipe or faucet leak, turn the handle clockwise to suspend any water from leaking.
What happens when a water leak springs?
When a leak springs, it’s not always a slow drip. Sometimes the water will begin to rush out and start pooling on the floor of your home. Before you run to the main water shut-off valve, see if this fixture has its own personal shut-off valve. Toilet – On the wall your toilet sits against, there will be a small valve.
What to do if you don't see the washer lever?
If you don’t see these valves (or lever), you may have to pull out the washer from the wall a bit. Knowing how to stop the flow of water coming into your home can help prevent extensive water damage if there’s ever a serious leak. Whenever you need a leak repaired or a plumbing fixture fixed, contact Len The Plumber.
Where is the water shut off valve located?
Typically, the shut-off valve (notice the red ball valve on the right) is located in the basement close to your water meter. The valve in this photo is in the off position and not letting any water into your home.
What is the Main Water Shut Off Valve?
The main water shut off valve controls the flow of fresh water into your entire home. Water arrives at your home from a public source of water like your municipality’s water supply. Sometimes, it comes from a private source like a well.
How Do I Loosen a Stuck Shut Off Valve?
To loosen a stuck gate valve, you’ll need lubricating spray like WD-40. Simply apply the lubrication to the nut on the gate valve. After about 20 seconds, you should be able to turn the handle. If it’s still stuck, turn the stem under the handle with an adjustable wrench. Be careful: too much pressure can break the valve.
What happens when water is turned off?
When turned on, the flow of water is available everywhere in your home. When turned off, water is no longer available in your home.
Where is the main water valve located in an apartment?
In older apartment buildings, the main water supply valve is located in the basement. However, in some new buildings, main water supply valves are located on each floor in the utility room.
How to contact Tom Plumber?
Don’t hesitate to contact us here or call us at 1-Tom-Plumber (1-866-758-6237) if you need help finding, repairing, or installing a water shut off valve.
Where is the main water shut off valve located?
In older homes, it's usually near the water meter, which may be indoors or out, depending on the climate.
How to find the shut off valve on a water heater?
The main shutoff valve is connected to the pipe just before or after the meter.
Where is the water meter located?
If you're on a municipal water system, the main water supply pipe comes underground from the street. It usually rises along the side of the house, and that's where you'll find the meter, if you live in a warm climate. If you get freezing temperatures in winter, however, the meter is usually indoors. You can locate it by following the cold water supply pipe backward from the water heater. The main shutoff valve is connected to the pipe just before or after the meter.
How Do I Locate My Main Water Shut Off?
Water problems are some of the scariest issues to deal with as a homeowner. If a leak starts, you need to know how to jump into action before serious water damage occurs.
Two Different Types of Main Water Shut Offs
Ball Valves – These valves have a roughly 2-inch handle that is wrapped in grip material. These are the standard valves used today. The water is controlled by a rotating ball that has a hole through the center on one side.
Step 1: Start By Finding the Source
To figure out where to start looking, start by analyzing which side of the home the water line runs into.
Step 2: Enter the Lowest Level Of The Home
Water lines run at a minimum of 6 feet underground to prevent the pipe from freezing. Because of this, the waterline always enters the home at the lowest level.
Finding the Shut-Off By Using The Sprinkler System
A small tip if you are having issues finding the shut-off is to use clues from your sprinkler system. If the home has an inground sprinkler system, the supply for the sprinkler system has to exit the house and run to a backflow preventer and the sprinkler valve box.
How To Locate My Main Water Shut Off In A House With A Well
Locating the main shut-off on a well supplied home can be tricky. They are less common so many homeowners are less familiar with a well system. The trick is to track down the main supply line just as we did before.
Where is the water shut off valve located?
The city’s valve is always located on the street side of your water meter, often near the edge of your yard.
What is a main water shut off valve?
What is a main water shut-off valve? As you know, your home is full of plumbing. There are pipes running behind your walls and under your floors that direct water to and from your plumbing accessories , such as your faucets, toilets and bathtubs. Although most, if not all, of your accessories have their own shut-off valves located close to them ...
Why is my valve’s location important?
Imagine this scenario: You’ve just walked in from a long day at work only to be greeted with the sound of running water and squishing beneath your feet. You have a burst pipe. And, therefore, you have a big problem on your hands. Rather than let the water continue spewing out and making the damage — and your cost to fix it — worse while you wait for the plumber to come, you’ll want to close your inside main shut-off valve to ensure the water stops flowing.
Why do you need to close the main shut off valve?
Rather than let the water continue spewing out and making the damage — and your cost to fix it — worse while you wait for the plumber to come, you’ll want to close your inside main shut-off valve to ensure the water stops flowing.
Do you have to turn off water when remodeling?
Likewise, if you’re planning to do any remodeling to your home or dive into any plumbing ventures, such as replacing old pipes, you’ll want to make sure all the water is turned off to the house during the projects.
Can you find a shut off valve behind a wall?
Unfortunately, if you still can’t locate the valve after checking these places, it may be hidden behind a wall. Although the valves are supposed to be visible (hence the access panel option above, if it’s behind a wall), a previous owner may not have thought about the shut-off valve when he or she performed some DIY renovations. If that’s the case, be sure to have the city’s phone number on hand, so they can quickly come turn the water off at the street during an emergency.
How to shut off water in house?
Another way to shut off the water is to go to the water meter box. Just be careful not to mess with the city shutoff side of the meter.
Where is the main water shut off valve located?
Your main water shutoff valve could be located in several different areas. If you have a home with a basement and crawlspace, it is probably located on an interior wall near the front of the house, where the water comes in from the water meter. In this case, it is most likely hiding in plain sight. If your home was built on a slab, ...
Where are the isolation valves?
Sinks, toilets, water heaters, and washing machines should have a small valve located near the plumbing that can easily shut off the individual water supply.
What does a ball valve on a water meter tell you?
The water meter should also be able to tell you if you have a plumbing leak somewhere in your home. Learn how to read your water meter and conduct a DIY leak detection test here.
How to turn off water flow in a toilet?
Simply turning the valve clockwise will turn off the water flow. Sink and toilet problems can be dealt with quickly by simply shutting off the supply this way. It’s always good to test the isolation valves periodically to make sure they are working properly.
How to maintain a healthy plumbing system?
The best way to maintain a healthy plumbing system is to have periodic maintenance checks conducted by a professional. Your licensed plumber will be able to conduct a full inspection of your plumbing system to identify potential risks before they turn into costly problems.
What happens when water freezes?
When water freezes, it expands and can burst the pipe, not matter how thick or strong it may be. Learn how to prevent frozen pipes here; but, if it’s too late and the pipe has already burst, turn off your main water valve as fast as you can to prevent further damages. Being able to contain the situation as soon as possible will greatly help ...
Why do you need to shut off the water supply?
Shutting off the water supply in your home is usually necessary when you are making plumbing repairs to any of the fixtures or pipes in your home's plumbing system. There are at least three different places you can shut off the water, and your choice of locations will depend on where the leak or ...
Where is the shut off valve located?
For sink faucets, look for the shutoff valves located below the sink, near where the water supply tubes run up to the tailpieces on the faucet. Any faucet that supplies both hot and cold water will have two ...
What is the valve on a refrigerator water dispenser?
For refrigerator ice makers/water dispensers, the small copper or mesh supply tube running to the refrigerator usually has a small saddle valve or fixture shutoff valve that can be shut off to close down the water supply. In some cases, the supply tube running to the refrigerator may tap into a water supply line beneath the sink, ...
What to do if your faucet is dripping?
If a faucet is dripping or a toilet is running —or if a leak develops in a refrigerator ice maker, dishwasher, washing machine, or any appliance supplied by water—your first and best choice is to shut off the water right at that fixture or appliance.
How many shut off valves does a water heater have?
A water heater has two shut-off valves. A cold water inlet valve (often identified by a blue handle) feeds cold water from the main supply into the water heater. This is the valve to shut off if you need to repair or replace the water heater.
What happens when you open the lowest faucet?
After shutting off the main shut-off valve, if you open the lowest faucet in your home (such as in a basement or a foundation-level outdoor faucet) and also the highest faucet in the home, it will allow water standing in the plumbing system to drain away.
Where is the water supply tube for a dishwasher?
For dishwashers, the water supply tube running to the dishwasher often has a fixture shutoff valve controlling it. In many cases, this is also located under the kitchen sink base cabinet, and it may be near the sink faucet shut-off valves. For refrigerator ice makers/water dispensers, the small copper or mesh supply tube running to ...
Where is the water shut off valve located?
Search for your house's main water shut off valve on the inside of the home. Typically, it will be located on the perimeter of the house, since that is where the water first enters your house. Also, stay on the side of the house that is facing the street. Your water main begins at the street and usually heads in a straight line to your home.
What to do if you can't find water shut off valve?
If you still cannot find the water shut off valve after physically searching for it, one alternative is to check the property inspection report that was completed for you when you were in the final phases of purchasing your home.
How to clean a water meter?
Do not discard the sand or dirt. If you live in a climate that freezes in the winter, this sand or dirt is required to prevent the pipes from freezing and bursting. After clearing the box, you will see the glass-covered meter that may have a secondary cover to protect the glass. Ignore this as it has nothing to do with shutting off the water. You may find two valves in the utility box.
What to do if you have a leak in your toilet?
If you have a leak in your toilet, sink, clothes washer, or bathtub (with exposed plumbing), your first option should be to shut off water close to the source as possible .
Where to find shut off valve on property inspection?
Look in the plumbing section of the report. This section should locate the shut-off valve and have a photo of the valve. Even if the water system was not defective at the time of the property inspection report, the report should still note the locate the shut-off valve as a matter of course.
How to turn off a ball valve?
To turn off a ball valve, the handle will move from a parallel position to a perpendicular position. The valve body has stops that only allow the handle to move from one direction to another and will stop the handle when it is fully perpendicular.
How to track water lines to house?
If you are on a ground-level floor, you will be looking down. Track a line from the water meter to the house. Go outside and stand on top of the water meter utility box. Imagine a straight line extending from that point to the nearest point on your home's exterior perimeter.