Water shutoff valves quick video: How to avoid a water catastrophe
Our quick tips video below will give a brief overview of how to find the main water shutoff valve in your home and how to turn it off in the event of a water catastrophe. If you do not want to watch the video or if you prefer to read instead scroll past the video to read our blog post below.
Why do you need to know where your main water valve is?
Chances are you will never have a water catastrophe like a burst pipe in your home, but if you do, you cannot afford to waste precious minutes searching for the main water shut-off valve- that’s why it’s crucial for every homeowner to know where this valve is and how to shut it off.
How to find your main water valve:
The first thing you need to do is find your water meter because the main water shut-off valve is usually close to it. Now where the meter is located can vary in a colder region, where pipes could freeze in the winter. The water line usually enters through the floor of the foundation. Locate the line entering your home, follow that line and you’ll find the water meter, keep following it and you’ll see the shut-off valve.
How to turn your main water valve off:
To stop the flow of water, turn the valve clockwise. In 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 (a small yellow valve handle).
To turn off the water, move the valve handle to a horizontal position. Older homes may have a valve like this (red broach valve wheel). To turn off the water turn the valve clockwise until it stops. If it’s more convenient you can have an inside shut-off valve installed.
It might save you time and money in the event of a burst pipe. Because there is no standard location for main water shut-off valves, you may have to do a little searching to find yours. Once you find it, make sure everyone in your family knows where it is.
If you need help finding your water shut-off, give us a call, we’ll be happy to locate it and apply a tag like this (orange tag), to be able to remember where it is.