Shutoff Valves
How Do I Find My Main Water Shutoff?
The short answer
Every homeowner should know this before an emergency. The main shutoff is usually where the water line enters the house — in a crawlspace, basement, utility room, or near the water meter. It's often a gate valve (round wheel) or ball valve (lever).
Common symptoms
- Need to shut off water in a hurry
- Pipe burst or major leak
- Planning a fixture repair
Safe things you can check
- ✓Find it now, before you need it. Look where the main line enters the house.
- ✓Turn it fully closed (clockwise for a gate valve, 90° for a ball valve).
- ✓Label it so anyone in the house can find it.
When to call a professional
If the valve is stuck, won't turn, or leaks when operated, we replace it — a seized main shutoff is a liability during an emergency.
Related professional service
Related plumbing topics
Related reading
Reviewed by Paul Hall, Owner & Licensed Plumber
The Classic Plumber · Knoxville, TN · License #4268
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