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Homeowners and renters alike should be aware of how to shut off the water supply to their homes. You can do so by accessing the main water shut-off valve. This valve can cut off the water supply to your entire home. Whether it’s necessary in the instance of an emergency or you’re shutting off the water as a precautionary measure, you should be aware of how you can access this critical part of your plumbing system. The following information will help you understand where to find your main water shut-off valve, how to use it, and when it might be necessary to shut off your water.
Where Is Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve?
The main water shut-off valve will appear in different locations from home to home. It will vary based on what type of residence you live in, where you are geographically, and your water source. But regardless of where it is located, you’ll be looking for either a gate valve or a ball valve.
You might have to do some digging to find your main water shut-off valve but there are some general locations to check. Grab a flashlight and head to these spots to try finding it:
Basement
Mechanical closet
Near your HVAC system
Crawl space
Near the water main entrance
If searching physically fails you, check your property inspection report. It should point you to where your main water shut-off valve is located.
How to Turn Off the Water in Your Home
Once you locate the main water shut-off valve, turning your supply off is a breeze. Simply pull the ball shut-off valve or tighten the gate shut-off valve. This should cut the water supply for your entire home. If you’d like, you can test out some water faucets in the house to be sure it worked. Don’t be alarmed if some water comes out. This is most likely just that water that was already in the pipe and should run out within seconds.
When Should You Shut Off the Main Water Valve?
There are a few scenarios where your main water shut-off valve will come in handy. Sometimes it will be necessary to prevent water damage during an emergency and sometimes it can serve as a preventative measure. If any of the following instances take place you can opt to use your main water shut-off valve.
You have a pipe leak
You need to complete a repair
There’s a natural disaster on the way
You’re going to be away from your home for an extended period of time
The main water shut-off valve isn’t your only solution. You can also defer to the localized shut-off valve located on the water supply lines of your appliances. This can be more convenient for simple repairs or isolated leaks.
Need Support With a Plumbing Emergency?
Sometimes our best DIY efforts won’t be enough to repair the damage after a plumbing emergency. If you’re in the Thornton, Colorado area and you’re in need of a trusted plumber, call on To the T Plumbing and Heating today! We offer a range of plumbing services from brand new installations to repairs and maintenance.
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