One of the most important things every homeowner should know is where the main water shutoff is located.

If a pipe bursts, a water heater starts leaking, a hose bib sprays, or water starts spreading where it should not, shutting off the water quickly can help limit damage until help arrives.

Why Your Main Shutoff Matters

The main water shutoff controls water coming into the home. In an emergency, it may be the fastest way to stop water from continuing to leak, spray, or flood.

Knowing where it is before something happens can save time and stress.

Where Your Main Shutoff May Be Located

Your main shutoff may be:

• Near the water meter
• In a basement
• In a crawl space
• In a garage
• Near the water heater
• Along an exterior wall
• In a utility closet
• Near where the water line enters the home

Every home is different, so it is worth finding yours before there is an urgent issue.

Know Your Fixture Shutoffs Too

In addition to the main shutoff, many fixtures and appliances have smaller shutoff valves.

Common places include:

• Under sinks
• Behind toilets
• Near the washing machine
• Near the refrigerator water line
• At the water heater
• Near a dishwasher connection
• Near some exterior hose bibs

These smaller shutoffs may let you stop water to one fixture without shutting off the whole home.

When to Use the Main Shutoff

Use the main shutoff if:

• Water is spraying
• A pipe has burst
• A fixture shutoff does not work
• Water is spreading quickly
• You cannot find the local shutoff
• A leak is causing damage
• An appliance water line is leaking badly

If water is near electrical areas, stay safe and call for help.

Do Not Force a Stuck Valve

If a shutoff valve is rusty, stuck, leaking, or hard to turn, do not force it. Forcing an old valve can sometimes make the problem worse.

If you are not sure whether a valve is safe to turn, call or text with a photo.