Where to look

Most homes have a shutoff where the water line enters the house, commonly near the front, close to an outside hose bib and often near the pressure regulator. On sloped lots, where the house sits above or below the street, the line can enter at a side or rear wall, or the shutoff can be in a planter, a valve box or a garage.

There is usually also a valve at the meter box near the street. Part of that box may belong to the utility. Use the house-side valve first, and check with the city before operating a valve on the street side of the meter.

Closing it in a leak

  1. Go straight to the valve.Do not stop to mop. Every minute of flow adds damage.
  2. Turn clockwise.A round handle (gate valve) takes several turns. A lever (ball valve) closes with a quarter turn so the handle sits across the pipe.
  3. Confirm it held.Open a faucet inside. Flow should taper off to nothing.
  4. Protect the heater.If water will be off for a while, turn a gas water heater to its pilot or vacation setting, or switch off power to an electric one, following the label.
  5. Then deal with electricity.If water reached outlets or appliances, switch off those circuits before stepping in standing water.

Gate valve versus ball valve

Older gate valve

  • Round wheel handle, many turns to close
  • Common in older homes
  • Internal gate can break or seize, leaving it partly open
  • Stem packing can leak after being turned

Ball valve

  • Lever handle, quarter turn
  • Easy to see whether it is open or closed
  • Generally reliable for shutoff use
  • Often chosen when an old main valve is replaced

A once-a-year shutoff check

If the valve will not cooperate

  • IfHandle will not turn by handThenDo not force it with a long wrench; old stems can snap. Call a licensed plumber.
  • IfValve turns but water keeps flowingThenThe internal gate may be broken. Ask the plumber about replacement.
  • IfStem drips after useThenPacking may need tightening or the valve may need replacing.
  • IfNo house-side valve can be foundThenHave a plumber locate the line and discuss adding an accessible shutoff.

What affects a replacement

Replacing a main shutoff is usually paired with a look at the regulator, since they often sit close together. Access, pipe material and whether the valve is buried all influence the scope. Ask for the work and its parts in writing, and ask whether a permit is needed.

Common questions

Should I turn off the water when I travel?

Many homeowners close the main before longer trips to limit damage if a hose or supply line fails. Remember the water heater and any irrigation that needs water.

Is the meter valve mine to use?

Part of the meter box may belong to the utility. Use your house-side shutoff, and check with the city before using the street-side valve.

Do individual fixtures have their own shutoffs?

Most sinks and toilets have small angle stops underneath. Closing one of those isolates a single fixture without shutting down the house.

General information for Coyote Hills, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.