Locating Water Shut-Off Valve

When a plumbing emergency happens, you must immediately turn off your home’s main water valve. This important connection to the city’s water supply can stop water from flooding your home and buy you valuable time to call a professional plumber.

Many smaller water valves within your home turn your home’s fixtures on and off. These valves are also important because you must know where they are located to repair or replace those fixtures.

If you have trouble locating these valves, don’t worry. A friendly Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Savannah team member can help you locate them on our next visit.

What Is a Main Water Valve?

Your home has one main water shut-off valve, either a gate valve or a ball valve. A gate valve raises or lowers a gate inside to control the water flow. Gate valves are durable but may not always allow for the quickest shut-off in an emergency.

A ball valve controls water flow using a spherical ball with a hole through the center. When the valve handle is turned, the ball rotates to align with or block the pipe. Ball valves allow for a quick and complete shut-off and are highly reliable.

How to Locate Your Main Water Valve

These tips can help you locate this important valve, which allows you to turn off water in a plumbing emergency.

• Check near the water meter: The main water valve is often found in a few common areas. Look near the water meter in the basement, garage, or exterior wall. In warmer climates, it might be in an exterior box at your home's front.
• Look in the basement: If you have a basement or crawl space, the main water valve is likely located where the water line enters the house. It may be near the floor or along the wall.
• Check Outside boxes: In some cases, the main water valve is located in an exterior box, often found near the sidewalk or driveway. It may be marked with a lid or cover.
• Follow the Water Line: If unsure, trace the water line from your water meter or the street to where it enters your home. The main valve will be located along this line.
• Consult Your Home’s Blueprints: The main water valve's location should be marked if you can access your home's plumbing blueprints or plan.

How to Locate Fixture Valves

Fixture shut-off valves are generally easier to find. If you can’t immediately find them, keep these tips in mind.

• Look under sinks: Sink fixture valves are typically found beneath the sink. Open the cabinet doors and look for two valves connected to the water supply lines—one for hot water and one for cold.
• Check behind toilets: For toilets, the fixture valve is usually located on the wall behind the toilet, close to the floor. This valve controls water to the toilet.
• Search near appliances: Fixture valves are often located behind or near appliances like dishwashers or washing machines. Look for valves connected to the water supply lines.

Fixture valves might also be located near the fixture itself. They are often quickly reachable. They control the water flow directly to that specific fixture. If you're having trouble finding fixture valves, check your home's plumbing plan or consult a plumber for guidance. Every home is different.

Why Residents of Savannah Trust Mr. Rooter

With countless plumbing companies promising exceptional service, it’s often difficult to discern which ones genuinely provide quality work at a reasonable price. At Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Savannah, we are proud to provide consistently excellent plumbing services.

Our name represents high-quality craftsmanship and certified plumbers, transparency, and honesty. We outline all costs upfront, ensuring no surprises. Our promise to you is our commitment to customer satisfaction and quality workmanship.

Contact Mr. Rooter for Your Plumbing Needs

Now that you know where your home’s shut-off valves are located, you can quickly prevent flooding in a plumbing emergency. A broken pipe or water heater failure can happen at any time. When you need immediate response service, you can count on Mr. Rooter of Savannah to prioritize your visit. Schedule your appointment online.