DIY Tip: How to Shut Off the Main Water Supply

When the temperatures start to drop, many homeowners have to deal with pipes that burst from freezing.  Burst pipes can cause flooding in your home that is very damaging both to your home and your pocketbook.  Do you know what to do if this happens in your home?  Know where your water supply shut off valve is to turn off water if a flooding emergency arises.

If you have a basement (as most houses in our area do), your main valve is usually located where the water comes into the house in the basement, close to the water meter. Turn the valve clockwise to turn off the water flow.  That should shut-off the water to your entire home.  Release the pressure in the pipes by turning on both the hot and cold water in the faucets throughout your house until the water stops.

Following these steps should at least stop water leaking in a frozen pipe.  The water will be shut off for other things like washing dishes or taking a shower but it buy you a little time to call us to get the pipe fixed.  You’ll be back in business in no time!

Here’s a great video from Mr. Rooter Plumbing that will show you how to turn off the water in most homes.