Where Is the Main Water Valve? How to Find It

Where is the main water valve in your home? If you have water gushing into your house, it is critical to know where it is to prevent water damage and other issues.

However severe your plumbing problem is, Gladiator Services has the tools and expertise homeowners rely on in New Jersey. Our Hillsdale plumbing services cover a wide range of problems, from minor fixes to severe water issues.

Unfortunately, many homeowners are clueless when it comes to finding the main water valve. Below is a comprehensive guide to help you locate your home's main water valve and learn how to shut it off.

Where to Look for the Main Water Valve

Where is the main water valve? Not every house has the same answer.

Inside the Perimeter of Your Home

In most cases, the main water valve is inside the perimeter of your home since that's where your water comes through. Check the side of your house that faces the street first. Water mains typically start in the street near your house.

Additionally, there is no need to check upstairs if you live in a multi-story home. Main water valves are generally on the first floor or in your home’s basement.

Check Your Property Inspection Report

You should have received a property inspection report when purchasing your house. If you can't find the main water valve by physically looking for it, the plumbing report will tell you exactly where it is in your home.

Street-Side Shut-Off Valve

For some homes, the main water valve is outside by the water main. Check the boundary line of your property and any sidewalks or streets for a ground-level utility box door. The utility box will be either plastic or metal.

In the case of an emergency, call the water company's emergency line. They will tell you where to find the shut-off valve, or they will dispatch someone to your property to do it for you.

Where Is the Shut-Off Valve for Plumbing Fixtures?

If you notice water flowing out of certain plumbing fixtures, you may not have to find the main water valve to turn off the water. Most plumbing fixtures have their own shut-off valves, which can save you time in an emergency.

Toilet

A flooding toilet is not an enjoyable situation. Thankfully, most toilets have their own shut-off valves.

The toilet shut-off valve is in the wall directly behind your toilet and below the toilet bowl. To turn off the water, gently turn the valve clockwise until the water stops flowing.

Sink

The sink's water turn-off valve looks similar to the toilet's. You can find it under the sink. If the faucets or pipes are leaking, turn it clockwise to stop the water.

Washing Machine

A washing machine has either two valves or a handle behind it. Turn both valves clockwise or turn the handle clockwise to halt water flow. If you don't see the valves or handle at first glance, pull the washer off the wall until you can reach the water turn-off.

Where Is the Main Water Valve? Tips for Finding It in Your Home

When your plumbing suddenly malfunctions and you're faced with water flowing into your home, turning off the water right away is critical while you wait for the plumbers to show up.

If you can't find the inspection report, start on the first floor when looking for the main water valve. If the first floor of your home is the basement, you can expect the valve to be at eye level or slightly above. For ground-level floors, you will want to look down.

Another useful way to quickly find your house's water valve is to start at the water main outside. Stand near or on top of the water main's utility box and visualize a straight line from that spot to your house. Water lines often take the shortest path from outside to your home, so it is usually directly across from the outside water main.

How to Turn Off the Water with the Shut-Off Valve

Once you locate your main water valve, you need to turn it off to stop unwanted water from flowing. Below is how to turn off different types of valves in your home.

Gate Valve

The gate valve is similar to your hose faucet. To turn it off, rotate it clockwise until the water stops flowing. When you need it back on, simply turn it counterclockwise.

Ball Valve

A ball valve is a straight handle on a pipe. When the pipe is open, the handle sits parallel to the pipe. To close it, turn the handle clockwise until it is perpendicular to the pipe and the water stops flowing.

In the Utility Box

To shut off the main water valve in an outside utility box, open the lid to reveal the valve. If dirt is covering the valve, carefully remove it and put it aside; it is essential to replace the dirt later as it helps prevent the valves from freezing in cold temperatures.

Once you open and clear the utility box, you will see either a street-side valve or a house-side valve. Turn the valve clockwise to shut off the main water.

When In Doubt, Call a Plumber

If you still struggle to find the main water valve, let a plumber help. The professionals at Gladiator Services in Hillsdale, New Jersey, have experience working with nearly every type of plumbing system and can address any plumbing problem, whether big or small.

Where is the main water valve in your home? We can help you find it and restore your plumbing.

Whether you need water heater repair or a guide to plumbing vents, Gladiator Services has the knowledge and skills New Jersey homeowners rely on for their plumbing needs.

The experienced professionals at Gladiator Services in Hillsdale, New Jersey, understand the unique frustrations that come with plumbing problems and work hard to help you resolve them. Call the team today at (201) 571-1715 to schedule an inspection.