Do you know where your house water shut-off valve is?
Having water gushing into your home is unsafe and could cause flooding/damage in the interior of your home. Knowing where your whole house water shut-off valve can be very helpful in case of an emergency.
When you might need to find your shut-off valve
- If your pipes froze and burst (especially if they thawed and are gushing water)
- If you have a new or ongoing leak
- If you need to leave your house for an extended time (vacation, etc.)
Where to find your water shut-off valve if you have city water
Typically, if you are not on a well, the shut-off valve will be located at the perimeter of the house, since that is where the water enters the house. Your water starts at the street and heads to your house so stay on the side that faces the road.
Where to find your water shut-off valve if you have a well
If you have a well, your main water shut-off valve will be near the pressure tank. This might be in your basement, or in a well pump shed in your yard or next to your house.
Preparing to shut off your house water
If you have water gushing out of control in your basement or elsewhere, then there’s no need for prep–just shut it off ASAP!
If you’re getting ready to leave for vacation, or winterizing a summer home before you leave for the season, there’s a bit more to do…
Here is a video on how to winterize your house:
When you find the valve, turn the handle. (If it’s already on, it should only turn one way. Probably counter-clockwise.)
If you still cannot locate the valve, your local plumber certainly can. If you’re in the Nevada County/Grass Valley area, that’s us! Please give us a call at 530-274-7275 and we can certainly turn it off, or at least help you find it. 🙂