GeneralEmergency2025-11-28
How to Find Your Water Shut-Off Valve
Knowing where your main and appliance shut-offs are can save thousands in water damage.
Every homeowner should know where to stop the water — before a leak becomes a flood.
The main shut-off
The main valve is usually where the water line enters your home — near the front foundation wall, in a utility room, garage, or basement — or at the street meter. Turn it clockwise to close.
Appliance shut-offs
Water heaters, boilers, toilets and sinks have their own local shut-offs. Knowing these lets you isolate a leak without cutting water to the whole home.
Key takeaways
- Locate your main shut-off today
- Label it so everyone can find it
- Know appliance-level shut-offs too
- Test that valves turn freely
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