How to use this worksheet
Walk the house and yard with a pen, a flashlight and this page. For each shutoff, write where it is in words someone else in the house would understand, such as left of the front hose bib behind the rosemary, rather than north wall.
Then test the water valves gently. A shutoff you have never turned is a shutoff you cannot rely on. If one is stiff, do not force it; note it and ask a licensed plumber about replacing it at your next appointment.
Water shutoffs
| Shutoff | Where it is | Type (wheel or lever) | Tested on (date) |
|---|---|---|---|
| House main | |||
| Meter valve at the curb | Needs meter key | ||
| Water heater cold supply | |||
| Kitchen sink stops | |||
| Each toilet stop | |||
| Each bathroom sink | |||
| Washing machine valves | |||
| Irrigation shutoff | |||
| Refrigerator ice maker line |
Gas and electrical
| Item | Where it is | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Gas meter | Shutting gas at the meter is for emergencies; restoration is normally done by SoCalGas | |
| Water heater gas control | ||
| Furnace and dryer gas valves | ||
| Main electrical panel | ||
| Breaker for water heater (if electric) | ||
| Breaker for disposal and dishwasher |
Testing a water shutoff safely
- Have a towel ready.Older valves can weep at the stem when turned. A towel catches drips.
- Close slowly.Turn a wheel clockwise or a lever a quarter turn with steady hand pressure.
- Check the result.Open the fixture it controls and confirm the flow stops.
- Reopen slowly.Turn it back fully open, then a slight turn back on a wheel valve so it does not stick.
- Note any problem.Write down valves that are stiff, leak at the stem or do not stop the flow.
Finish the job
- Hang a meter key near the front door or in the garage.
- Tag the house main with a bright label or tape.
- Post a copy of this map inside the garage or near the electrical panel.
- Show every adult and older child in the house where the main is.
- Re-check the map when you remodel or replace a water heater.
Common questions
- What if I cannot find my house main?
- Look where the water line enters the house, usually on the street-facing side. If it is not there, a licensed plumber can locate it and may suggest adding an accessible valve.
- How often should I test the valves?
- Once or twice a year is a reasonable habit, and after any plumbing work.
- Do I need a special tool for the meter?
- Many meter valves need a meter key, sold at hardware stores.
General information for Brea, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.