To turn off water, use the nearest shutoff valve—under a sink, behind a toilet, or at the main valve for your house. Knowing where these valves are can prevent major water damage.
Quick Answer
Where to Find Shutoff Valves
Shut Off Water to Fixtures
Shut Off Water to the House
Shut Off Water at the Meter
FAQs
If you have a leak or need to make a repair, shutting off the water quickly can prevent serious damage. Most homes have multiple shutoff valves—knowing which one to use is key.
Quick Answer
To shut off water, turn the valve clockwise (or rotate a lever 90 degrees). Use fixture valves for small repairs or the main shutoff valve to stop water to the entire house.
Where to Find Water Shutoff Valves
| Location | Valve Type | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Under sink | Stop valves (hot & cold) | Shut off faucet |
| Behind toilet | Single stop valve | Shut off toilet |
| Near water heater | Supply valve | Shut off heater |
| Basement or exterior wall | Main shutoff valve | Shut off entire house |
| Near water meter | Property shutoff valve | Shut off all water to property |
How to Shut Off Water to Fixtures
Sink Faucet
- Locate two valves under the sink (hot and cold)
- Turn both clockwise to shut off water
Turn sink shutoff valves clockwise to stop water flow.
Toilet
- Locate the valve behind the toilet
- Turn it clockwise to shut off water
Toilet shutoff valve controls water supply to the fixture.
Washing Machine
- Locate hot and cold valves behind the unit
- Turn both clockwise or move lever valves to the off position
Turn both valves off to stop water supply to a washing machine.
Water Heater
- Locate the cold-water supply valve above the unit
- Turn clockwise or rotate lever 90 degrees
Cold-water supply valve controls flow into the water heater.
How to Turn Off Water to the Entire House
The main shutoff valve is typically located where the main water line enters your home.
- Look in the basement, crawlspace, garage, or near an exterior wall
- Turn the valve clockwise to shut off water
- For lever valves, rotate 90 degrees
Main shutoff valve controls water supply to the entire house.
How to Turn Off Water at the Meter
To shut off all water to your property:
- Locate the water meter near the street
- Open the meter box
- Turn the valve clockwise until it stops
Property shutoff valve is usually located near the water meter.
Tip: This valve should always be fully open or fully closed—never partially open.
FAQs
Which way do you turn a water shutoff valve?
Most valves turn clockwise to shut off water.
Where is the main water shutoff valve?
Usually near where the main water line enters your home.
Should I shut off water at the fixture or main?
Use the nearest valve to isolate the problem whenever possible.
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