How Do I Shut Off the Water Supply to My home?

Imagine you’re hosting a backyard barbecue in sunny Texas when you notice water pooling in your living room. Panic sets in, but you must stay calm and head to the main water shutoff valve to cut off the water supply and prevent further damage.

Not sure how to shut off the water supply? This brief article brought to you by Texas Rooter is your short guide to understanding the main water shutoff valve, locating it, and turning it off to cut the water supply.

If you’re in need of a trained plumber then contact Texas Rooter to have a local professional dispatched to your home or business as soon as possible. We’re also happy to schedule a convenient appointment for a time that suits you best.

What Even Is a Main Water Shutoff Valve?

The main water shutoff valve is the primary control that stops the flow of water into your home or business. It is like the gatekeeper of your home or business’s water supply. Turn it offand more water flows into your property. The shutoff valve is like an emergency brake. Think of it like handbrakes – it’s there to rein in chaos when things go too sideways.

Why the Main Water Shutoff Valve Matters

Living in Texas comes with its unique set of challenges: extreme weather, occasional floods, and unpredictable plumbing in Euless, TX issues. As a Texan homeowner or business owner, you know that water damage isn’t just a nuisance; it can be expensive and time-consuming to fix.

This is why understanding your home's plumbing is non-negotiable. The main water shutoff valve allows you to quickly control water flow during an emergency and potentially prevent significant property damage and costly repairs.

Where’s the Darn Valve? Locating the Main Water Shutoff Valve

The location of the main water shutoff valve can vary depending on the age and design of your property. Here are a few common spots to check:

1.     Near the Water Meter:In many Texas homes, the valve is situated close to the water meter. Look outside your home, usually near the street or sidewalk. It might be housed in a covered box or pit.

2.     Basement or Utility Room:For homes with basements or dedicated utility rooms, the main shutoff valve is often located near where the water line enters the building. In older properties, it could be in the crawl space or utility closet.

3.     Garage or Side Entrance:Some properties have the valve tucked away in the garage or at the back of the house. It might be mounted on an exterior wall or in a sheltered nook.

How to Shut Off the Water Supply

Once you’ve located the valve, the next step is knowing how to operate it. Luckily, it’s even simpler than finding the valve.

First, identify the type of valve. The main water shutoff valve usually comes in two types: a ball valve or a gate valve.

• A ball valve has a lever that needs to be turned 90 degrees. When the lever is perpendicular to the pipe, the water is off; when parallel, the water flows.
•  A gate valve, on the other hand, has a round wheel that you turn clockwise to close.

PRO TIP: After you’ve shut off the water, turn on a faucet at the highest point in your home or business. This allows any water remaining in the pipes to drain out and confirms that the shutoff valve is working properly.

Need a Trained Plumber? Call Texas Rooter

If you’re looking for emergency plumbing service, then contact Texas Rooter to get in touch with a live representative today. Our team is on standby to take your call or message as soon as possible.