How to Shut Off Your Main Water Supply
Knowing how to shut off your water is the single most useful plumbing skill a homeowner can have. Find your valve today, before you need it.
Where to look
- In the basement, where the water line comes through the front foundation wall
- Next to the water meter
- In a utility room or behind an access panel
- In homes without basements, near the water heater or in a crawl space
Valve types
- Gate valve (round wheel): turn clockwise until it stops. Don't force it.
- Ball valve (lever): turn a quarter turn so the lever is perpendicular to the pipe.
After shutting it off
- Open a low faucet to drain pressure.
- Turn off the water heater if lines will be drained.
- Label the valve so everyone in the home can find it.
If it won't turn
Old gate valves can seize. Don't use excessive force — you could break it. A plumber can replace it with a ball valve. The municipal curb stop outside should only be operated by the Region of Durham.
Related plumbing services
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