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Today’s blog is an important HSA: Homeowners’ Service Announcement. If you own a home, it’s important that you know how to shut off the water main that transports water into your plumbing. You need to know where the shut-off valve is located and how to use it—and all the adults in your home should also know how to use it. Flooding due to plumbing accidents can cause significant damage to a home, and if you’re caught in a major plumbing emergency, it’s a wise idea to stop the water flow at the source—even before you call us for plumbing repair in Tillman’s Corner, AL.
Below, we’re going to go through what you need to know about shutting off water to your house.
Where to Find Your Water Shut-Off Valve
In most homes, the water main shut-off valve is located near where the water line enters your home, which can vary depending on your house’s design and location. Often, you’ll find it along the perimeter of your home such as in a crawl space, on an outside wall, or in a basement if your home has one. Sometimes the valve will be under a plastic cover near the front of your property, close to the street.
If you’re having trouble locating the shut-off valve, check along the front wall of your home or near your water heater, as it’s often positioned nearby. Familiarize yourself with this location, so you’re prepared to access it quickly in case of an emergency.
How to Shut Off the Water
The water main shut-off valve typically has one of two styles: a wheel that you turn clockwise to close or a lever handle that you pull a quarter-turn until it’s perpendicular to the pipe. When you turn or pull the handle, you’ll stop the flow of water into your home’s plumbing. Make sure to test this valve regularly to ensure it functions smoothly—older valves can become difficult to turn, especially if they haven’t been used in a while. Regularly checking can help prevent surprises during a real emergency.
Some valves require a special wrench—essentially, a detachable lever. This wrench should be hanging beside the valve. If it’s not, you can purchase one from a hardware store. You’ll be glad you found out the wrench was missing before you actually needed it!
Consider Installing an Automatic Shut-Off Valve
An automatic shut-off valve is a smart addition to any home’s plumbing. This device senses leaks or excessive water flow and immediately stops the water from coming into your home, even if you aren’t there to turn it off manually.
Automatic shut-off valves can prevent extensive water damage in situations like burst pipes or significant leaks that may go unnoticed. These valves offer peace of mind, especially if you travel frequently or own a second home, ensuring your home is protected even when you’re not there.
Whenever you have a plumbing emergency, you can always count on the Peaden Pros to come to your rescue. We can also help install an automatic shut-off valve, which we recommend for most homes.