Knowing how to shut off the water to your house is one of the most important homeowner skills. Whether you’re dealing with a burst pipe, a leaking fixture, or doing repairs, shutting off the water quickly can prevent thousands of dollars in damage.
This guide walks through how to shut off your water with a main shutoff valve, without one, and what to do if your valve is stuck or missing.
Quick Answer:
To shut off water to your house in an emergency, locate the main water shutoff valve (usually near where the water line enters the home) and turn it clockwise. If no main valve is present, contact your local water utility to shut it off at the street.
Step 1: Locate Your Main Water Shutoff Valve
Most homes have a main shutoff valve in one of these locations:
- Basement (near where the water line enters the house)
- Crawl space
- Utility room
- Garage
- Outside near the foundation
- Near the water heater
Common valve types:
- Gate valve (round wheel handle)
- Ball valve (lever handle)
If it’s a lever, turning it 90 degrees perpendicular to the pipe shuts off the water.
Step 2: How to Shut Off the Main Valve
Once you find the valve:
- Turn the valve clockwise (right) until it stops
- Open a faucet to confirm water flow has stopped
- Leave the faucet open to relieve pressure
If water still flows, the valve may be faulty or partially stuck.
Step 3: If You Don’t Have a Main Shutoff Valve
Some older homes don’t have an accessible interior shutoff.
In that case, you’ll need to shut off water at the street.
How to Shut Off Water at the Street:
- Look for a rectangular or round metal cover near the curb
- Use a water meter key or adjustable wrench
- Turn the valve clockwise until it stops
Do not force it. If it won’t turn, call the water utility.
Step 4: What If the Valve Is Stuck or Won’t Turn?
If your valve won’t move:
- Try gently rocking it back and forth
- Use penetrating oil
- Do not use excessive force (valves can snap)
If it still won’t turn, this is a sign the valve should be replaced by a plumber.
Step 5: Test Everything After Turning Water Back On
When restoring water:
- Slowly open the valve
- Check for leaks
- Run faucets to clear air from the lines
Final Tip for Homeowners
If you can’t easily find or operate your shutoff valve, fix that now — not during an emergency. Replacing or relocating a valve is relatively inexpensive compared to water damage.