How to Locate a Water Shut-off Valve
In case of an emergency, such as a burst pipe or major leak, it's important to know how to quickly turn off the water to your home. Finding or locating the water shut-off valve can be tricky, so it's important that every homeowner knows where it is located. In colder areas of the country, the main water shutoff is located inside, usually in the basement, to prevent freezing. In warmer areas, you can find the shutoff on an exterior wall, or in an underground box. The water shut-off valve will usually have one of two designs. A gate valve will have a wheel that will turn all the way around. Be sure to test it once and a while as these can become difficult to turn over time. A ball valve will only turn halfway and is most common in homes with plastic or copper main water pipes. By turning it clockwise, you will effectively shut off the water to your home. For an in-depth detail on turning off the main water shut-off value check out this post. If you're experiencing a leak or other plumbing problems that require you to turn off the water main to your home, call the experts at Roto-Rooter as every second counts. We're available 24/7 at 888-302-4368.
VIEW TRANSCRIPT
In case of an emergency such as a burst pipe or major leak, it's important to know how to quickly turn off the water in your home. This is done by the water shut-off valve, which is the main point where all water enters your house and is usually found close to your water meter. Depending on where you live, the main water shut-off can be located in different areas of the home. In colder areas of the country, the main water shut-off is located inside, usually in the basement to prevent freezing. In warmer areas, you can find the shut-off on an exterior wall or in an underground box. Once located, the shut-off will usually have one of two designs. A gate valve will have a wheel that will turn all the way around. Be sure to test it once in a while as these can become difficult to turn over time. A ball valve will only turn halfway and is most common in homes with plastic or copper main water pipes. By turning it clockwise, you will effectively shut off the water to your home. Knowing in advance where and how to shut off the water to your home can save you money and costly repairs. Also make sure to keep your Roto-Rooter plumber's number handy, because every second counts in a water emergency. [Roto-Rooter jingle]