In case of a plumbing disaster, it’s important to know how to find your water shut-off valve and quickly turn off the water supply. Many homeowners don’t know where their main shut-off valve is located, which can lead to serious damage in the event of a flood. In this blog post, we will show you where to find your water shut-off valve and how to turn it off in case of an emergency!
If you need help finding your water shut-off valve or taking care of any other plumbing issue, the team at Acme Plumbing can help. Our plumbers are licensed, insured, friendly, and courteous. We know how important the safety of your home is, so we ensure that we only take on board certified and highly trained technicians. Contact us today to learn more!
Why is it Necessary to Turn Off The Main Water Valve?
In case of a plumbing emergency, knowing where the valve is will help you to act swiftly to minimize any damage to your house. Water damage is one of homeowners’ most common and costly problems. In fact, according to the Insurance Information Institute, water damage and freezing accounted for almost one-third of all homeowners insurance claims from 2013 to 2017.
While your first instinct might be to call a plumber when you have a leak, sometimes it’s necessary to turn off the water yourself. If a pipe bursts, for example, you’ll need to shut off the water immediately to prevent further damage.
If you don’t know where your main water shut-off valve is located, take some time to find it now.
How to Find a Water Shut-Off Valve
Water shut-off valves are usually located near the water meter or where the main water line enters your home. In some cases, it may be located in the basement, crawlspace, or utility closet.
Well, if you have municipal water service, 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. Open the cover to the meter to find the water shut-off valve.
If you can’t find your shut-off valve, call your local water utility company for help. They can usually provide you with a map of the main water line for your home.
Once you’ve located the valve, familiarize yourself with how it works. Water shut-off valves come in two types: gate valves and ball valves. Gate valves are the most common type of valve and have a handle that is turned to open or close the water flow. Ball valves have a lever that is turned to open or close the water flow.
Most shut-off valves are located above ground, but in some cases, they may be buried underground. If your valve is buried, you’ll need to call a professional plumber to shut off the water for you.
How to Turn Off The Water Shut-Off Valve
After removing the cover, inspect the compartment for the residential water supply shut-off valve, which will be the one closest to your house.
If you have a gate valve, simply turn the handle clockwise until it is in the “off” position. If you have a ball valve, turn the lever so that it is perpendicular to the pipe. Once the water is shut off, check for leaks by turning on the faucet.
However, it isn’t always that simple. You may need a few tools to turn off an exterior main water valve. For example, you may need a wrench to loosen the valve before you can turn it. In some cases, the handle may be rusted and difficult to turn. If this is the case, you can try using a pair of pliers or a pipe wrench.
Now that you know how to find and turn off your water shut-off valve, it’s important to test it regularly to ensure it is working properly. To do this, simply turn off the water at the valve and then turn on a faucet in your home. If the water doesn’t come out of the faucet, the valve works properly. You’ll need to replace the valve if the water does come out.
While it may seem like a daunting task, learning how to find and turn off your water shut-off valve is an important part of being a homeowner. In case of an emergency, it could mean the difference between minor damage and a huge home repair bill! So take some time to familiarize yourself with your shut-off valve today.
Common Signs You Need to Call a Professional Plumber to Assess Your Water Shut-Off Valve
Although the shut-off valve is meant to be a simple and easy fix, it may not always work. If you’re not able to turn off the water with your shut-off valve, then it’s time to call a professional plumber. Here are some common signs that you need help:
The valve is stuck or rusted and won’t turn
Sometimes, you may find that the valve is stuck or rusted and won’t turn, regardless of how much you try. In this case, it’s best to call a professional plumber who can assess the situation and determine what needs to be done.
The shut-off valve is leaking
If your shut-off valve is leaking, it’s best to contact a plumber as soon as possible. A leaking shut-off valve can cause water damage and mold growth in your home, so it’s important to address the problem right away.
The shut-off valve is old or outdated
If you find that your shut-off valve is old or outdated, it may be time to replace it. This is a common problem in older homes. An old valve can cause water pressure issues and create a safety hazard for your home. A professional plumber will be able to assess the situation and recommend an appropriate replacement.
You can’t locate the shut-off valve
If after reading this guide, you’re still unable to locate your shut-off valve, then it may be time to call a professional. An experienced plumber can help you find the shut-off valve and make sure it’s functioning properly.
If any of these situations arise, contact a licensed plumber to inspect and repair your water shut-off valve. They’ll be able to answer your questions and provide a solution tailored to your needs. It’s always best to call an experienced professional in order to ensure the job is done correctly and safely.
When to Turn Off The Water Shut-Off Valve
Here are examples of situations when you may need to turn off your water shut-off valve:
Maintenance or repairs
If you’re performing maintenance or repairs on any part of your plumbing system, then it’s important to turn off the water at the shut-off valve first. This will help prevent accidents and ensure that no water is wasted.
In case of emergency
If there is ever an emergency involving your plumbing, like a burst pipe or flooding, then quickly turn off the water at the shut-off valve. This will help reduce any further damage and minimize the amount of water that is wasted.
When leaving for an extended period of time
Are you planning on leaving for an extended period of time? Before you go, make sure to shut off the water at your shut-off valve. This will prevent accidents while you’re away and ensure no water is wasted.
Overall, knowing how to locate and turn off your water shut-off valve is an important step in being a responsible homeowner. With the right knowledge, you will be better prepared to handle any plumbing emergency that may arise. If you encounter any of the signs mentioned in this guide, contact a professional plumber who can inspect and repair your shut-off valve. That way, you can rest assured that your home is safe from water damage and other potential hazards.
Seek Professional Plumbing Assistance From Acme Plumbing Co.
If you find yourself in a plumbing bind or if you have any questions about your shut-off valve, Acme Plumbing Co. is Durham, NC’s leading 24 /7 emergency plumbing company. We’re here to help with all of your plumbing needs, big or small! Give us a call at (919) 688-1348 today!
