Locating the Main Water Shut-Off Valve
The main water shut-off valve is usually located near the water meter or where the water supply enters your home. It is essential to know the location of this valve before an emergency arises. You can contact your water company to find out where your main shut-off valve is located.
Types of Main Shut-Off Valves
There are two main types of shut-off valves: gate valves and ball valves. Gate valves, also known as wheel valves, have a round handle that needs to be turned several times to close the valve. Ball valves have a lever handle that needs to be turned 90 degrees to shut off the water supply.
Turning Off the Water with a Gate Valve
To turn off the water with a gate valve, locate the valve and turn the handle clockwise until it stops turning. This will shut off the water supply to your house. If the valve is difficult to turn, use a wrench or pliers to help you turn the handle.
Turning Off the Water with a Ball Valve
To turn off the water with a ball valve, locate the valve and turn the lever handle 90 degrees until it is perpendicular to the pipe. This will shut off the water supply to your house.
What to Do After Turning Off the Water
After turning off the water, open all the faucets in your home to drain any remaining water in the pipes. This will prevent water damage in case of a leak or burst pipe. Also, turn off the water heater to prevent it from overheating.
FAQ
Q: How do I know if the water is turned off?
A: You can check if the water is turned off by turning on a faucet. If no water comes out, the water supply is off.
Q: What should I do if I can’t locate the main shut-off valve?
A: If you can’t locate the main shut-off valve, contact a plumber to help you locate it.
Q: Can I turn off the water to just one area of my home?
A: Yes, you can turn off the water to just one area of your home by closing the shut-off valve for that area.
Q: How often should I turn off the water to my house?
A: It is recommended to turn off the water to your house once a year to check if the shut-off valve is working correctly.
Conclusion
Knowing how to turn off the water to your house is essential in case of a plumbing emergency. Locate the main shut-off valve and learn how to close it. After turning off the water, open all the faucets in your home to drain any remaining water in the pipes. If you have any doubts or questions, contact a plumber to help you.