Don't wait for an emergency! Locate the main water shut-off valve in your home and make sure everyone in the household knows where it is. In case of a plumbing emergency, such as a burst pipe, you can quickly turn off the water supply to minimize any home damage.
Locating the main water shut-off valve and testing that it is in good working order is important for emergencies and routine maintenance. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you find it:
Check the Curb or Property Line: Start by looking for a water meter box or a metal or plastic lid near the curb or property line in front of your house. It is usually located a few feet away from the street.
Lift the Lid: Use a screwdriver or a similar tool to lift the lid of the water meter box. Some boxes may have a latch that you can open by hand.
Look for the Shut-Off Valve: Once the meter box is open, you should see a water meter and pipes. Look for a brass or metal valve located on the incoming pipe, usually on the house side of the water meter.
Identify the Valve: The main water shut-off valve is typically a round or lever-style valve. It may have a handle or a wheel that can be turned clockwise or a lever that can be rotated or moved perpendicular to the pipe.
Test the Valve: To ensure you've found the correct valve, turn it clockwise or move the lever to shut off the water flow. You can verify if the water is turned off by checking faucets inside your house.
Mark the Location: Once you've located the shut-off valve, it's a good idea to mark it for easy identification in the future. You can use paint or a waterproof marker to make a small mark on the valve or the surrounding area.
It's important to note that the main water shut-off valve can vary in location depending on the property and the plumbing system. In some cases, it may be inside the house. If you cannot locate the shut-off valve outside, check within your home.
Contact Paradise Plumbing if you would like assistance locating and inspecting your main water shut-off. We are always here to help!
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