How to Shut Off a Water Main: A Step-by-Step Guide

Water main emergencies can strike without warning and it's good to be ready! Burst pipes to plumbing repairs require a full shutdown so you don't have water leaking into your home or residential rental while you wait for a professional plumber to come help.

Knowing how to turn off your water main quickly can prevent significant damage and save you from costly repairs and home item replacement. This article will guide you through the process of locating and shutting off your water main effectively.

What is a Water Main?

The water main is the primary pipeline that delivers water from your municipal supply to your home. It typically connects to a shut-off valve, which allows you to stop the water flow during emergencies or for maintenance.

When Should You Shut Off the Water Main?

You should turn off your water main in the following situations:

• A burst pipe causing water leaks.

• A major plumbing repair or installation.

• Suspected water contamination or backflow.

• Leaving home for an extended period to prevent leaks or damage.

  
  

How to Locate Your Water Main Shut-Off Valve

When moving into a new home or long-term rental, it's a great practice to find the water main before you need to shut it off. This way if something does happen, you can be confident that you know exactly where to go to shut it off. You can always ask your landlord or property manager to show you, or you can search the following places:

1. Check the Basement or Crawlspace

   In most homes, the water main shut-off valve is in the basement or crawlspace near the front wall. It’s usually located close to where the water line enters the house.

2. Inspect the Utility Area

   If your home doesn’t have a basement, look in utility areas like the garage, laundry room, or near the water heater.

3. Search Outside

   In warmer climates, shut-off valves may be outside near the street or the foundation of your home. These valves are typically found in a covered box labeled "Water" or "Meter."

4. Use a Utility Map or Contact Your Water Provider

   If you’re still unsure, consult your utility map or contact your local water provider for assistance.

For additional visuals and instruction, check out this video showing how to find and shut off your water main shut-off valve:

How to Shut Off the Water Main

Once you locate the shut-off valve, follow these steps:

1. Identify the Valve Type

• Gate Valve: A round handle that you turn clockwise to close.

• Ball Valve: A lever-style handle that you turn 90 degrees to shut off the water.

2. Prepare the Area

• Ensure you have a flashlight if the area is poorly lit.

• Keep tools handy if the valve is hard to turn (e.g., a wrench for stuck valves).

• Place a bucket or towel(s) nearby to catch any residual water.

3. Turn Off the Valve

• For a gate valve, turn it clockwise until it stops.

• For a ball valve, rotate the lever perpendicular to the pipe.

4. Test for Success

• Open a faucet to check if the water flow stops. If water still flows, ensure the valve is fully turned off.

Tips for Maintenance and Safety

Exercise Your Valve Regularly: Turn the valve off and on every six months to prevent it from sticking.

Label the Valve: Clearly label your shut-off valve for easy identification in an emergency.

Educate Your Household: Ensure everyone in your home knows where the valve is and how to use it.

Invest in a Water Key: For outdoor valves, keep a water key nearby to make access easier.

When to Call a Professional

If you encounter a valve that’s difficult to turn, corroded, or leaking, contact your landlord, property manager, or a professional to repair or replace it. Attempting to force a stuck valve can cause more damage.

If you are a Village Properties at Sunriver tenant, please submit a work order to our maintenance team through your online tenant portal so we can help resolve the issue as quickly as possible.

If you are looking for great plumbing or other professionals in the Central Oregon area, check out our preferred partners lists!

Knowing how to shut off your water main is an essential skill for every tenant and homeowner. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can protect your property (and its contents) and reduce the stress of water emergencies. Take time today to locate your water main and familiarize yourself with the shut-off process—you’ll thank yourself later!