Most main shutoffs are where the water line enters the house: on a basement wall facing the street, in a crawl space, garage or utility closet, or near the water heater. Turn a round wheel handle clockwise until it stops, or turn a lever a quarter turn so it sits crossways to the pipe.
Where to look
- Basement: on the wall that faces the street, near the floor, where the water line comes through the foundation. It's often next to the water meter.
- Crawl space: near where the line enters, usually on the street side.
- Slab homes: in the garage, a utility closet, near the water heater, or on an outside wall in warm climates.
- Condos and apartments: often in a utility closet, under the kitchen sink or behind an access panel. Ask your building which valve controls your unit.
How to turn it off
- Round wheel handle (gate valve): turn it clockwise until it stops. It can take several turns.
- Lever handle (ball valve): turn it a quarter turn so the handle sits across the pipe instead of in line with it.
- Then open the lowest faucet in the house to drain what's left in the pipes.
If you can't find it, or it won't turn
- Don't force a stuck valve. Old valves can break and make the leak worse.
- Shut off the fixture instead. Toilets, sinks, washers, dishwashers and water heaters usually have their own valve.
- Call your water utility's emergency line. There is usually a shutoff at the meter or the curb, but many utilities want their own crew to operate it, and it may need a special key.
Do this before you need it
- Find the valve now and put a bright tag on it.
- Show everyone in the house where it is and how it turns.
- Turn it off and back on once a year so it doesn't seize.
- If it's stiff or leaks at the stem, have a plumber replace it.
Water still coming in after you've shut it off? See what to do after a burst pipe or a ceiling leak, or print the first-hour checklist.
Common questions
Which way do I turn the water shutoff valve?
Clockwise for a round wheel handle. For a lever, a quarter turn so it sits across the pipe.
Can I turn off the water at the meter?
Sometimes, but many meter and curb valves need a special key, and some utilities want only their crews to use them. Call the utility's emergency line if the house valve won't work.
Will shutting off the main affect my water heater?
The heater stops getting new water, which is fine for a short time. If you'll be off for a while or the heater is leaking, turn off its power or gas too.