If you’re planning to perform emergency repairs on your plumbing, knowing how to find the main water shut off is crucial. When the main water line breaks, water pressure will keep your appliances running until the shutoff valve is turned off. Typically, a water pipe can carry anywhere from 10 to 15 gallons per minute. That’s enough to run a load of laundry or fill your washing machine, but if the pipe breaks, water will continue to flow and soak into the walls and carpet.

Your home’s main water shut off valve is typically located on the ground floor of your home, under the kitchen sink, or near the water heater. In colder climates, you’ll find this valve in the basement, but it can be anywhere along the street or in an alley. Once you’ve located the shut off valve, turn it clockwise to shut off the water supply. It shouldn’t require any tools and can be done manually without a plumber’s help.

When an emergency happens, knowing how to find the main water shut off valve can save a lot of stress and money. You don’t want to be stuck with a flood of water while your house is under water. Not only will knowing where the valve is located save you from frantic panic, but it will also give you time to take immediate action. While many people don’t know where to find their main water shut off, it’s important to have a backup plan in case of a plumbing emergency.

The location of the main water shutoff valve varies from home to home. A circular spigot may be found in the utility room. Other types of valves have lever style handles. However, it’s important to know where your main water shut off valve is before an emergency strikes. You might even be able to locate the valve in a wall if you’re looking for it. However, this may not be as simple as it seems.

If you’re unsure where the main water shutoff valve is, check the valve’s type. A ball valve is more likely to be a reliable option, but it can be a difficult valve to turn. The ball valve is usually the type of valve that can be located on the main water pipe entering the home. The handle of this type of valve can be turned 90 degrees to turn the water on or off.

If you’re looking to find the main water shutoff valve in your basement, check the front foundation wall. If the main water supply enters the home through a floor or wall, the water shutoff valve should be within three to five feet of the entry point. Some older homes may have a secondary shutoff valve in the basement or crawl space. If there is a secondary water shutoff valve, make sure to locate it.