Learn how to locate and shut off the main water valve in your home with our step-by-step guide.

Are you prepared for a plumbing emergency? One of the most important steps in preventing water damage and minimizing the impact of a leak or burst pipe is knowing how to shut off your main water valve.

Here's our step-by-step guide on how to locate and shut off the main water valve in your residential single-family home.

Step 1: Locate Your Main Water Valve

• Your main water shutoff valve is typically located where the water line enters your home. In most homes in Allen, Texas, the main water valve is located near the water meter or on the side of the house facing the street.

Step 2: Turn Off the Main Water Valve

• To shut off the main water valve, turn the valve handle clockwise until it stops. If you have an older home, you may have a gate valve that requires a wrench to turn off. Make sure to have a wrench on hand just in case.

Step 3: Test the Water

• Once you've shut off the main water valve, turn on a faucet in your home to make sure that the water supply has been completely shut off. If water still flows from the faucet, turn the valve handle further until the water supply is fully shut off.

Step 4: Turn the Water Back On

• When the plumbing emergency has been resolved, turn the main water valve handle counterclockwise to restore water flow to your home.

It's important to remember that shutting off the main water valve can be a messy process, so be sure to have towels and a bucket on hand. It's also a good idea to practice shutting off the valve before an emergency occurs so that you're prepared in case of a plumbing emergency.

By following these steps, you can quickly and easily locate and shut off the main water valve in your home. Remember, if you have any questions or concerns about your plumbing system, give one of our professional and skilled technicians a call for an honest diagnosis. 

Get your free estimate or schedule Allen plumbing services today: (469) 283-6222.