Finding the Water Shut-Off in a Basement or Crawl Space
A pipe that splits in a freeze can pour out gallons a minute. Knowing exactly where your main shut-off is, and that it works, is the best protection you have.
Request a plumberWhere to look
Most homes with basements have the main on the foundation wall facing the street, where the line comes in, often near the meter or water heater. In homes with crawl spaces, the valve may be just inside the access hatch or in a utility closet.
Open or closed
A lever handle is closed when it's across the pipe. A round handle closes clockwise. Old valves can break if forced, so turn them steadily.
Test it
Close the valve, open a faucet and wait a minute. If water keeps running, the valve isn't sealing and should be replaced before winter.
Keep the path clear
In a finished basement, the valve may be behind a panel or in a storage room. Keep it reachable, and keep a flashlight nearby if it's in a crawl space.
Fixture valves
Sinks, toilets, the washer and the water heater should each have a shut-off so you can stop one leak without cutting off the whole house.
If it won't close
Contact the city about the curb valve, and see emergency plumbing.
Show the household
Show everyone in the house where the valve is and how it turns. Tie a tag to it, and note its location inside a cupboard door so a house sitter can find it. Practice once so nobody has to think about it in an emergency.
Upgrade an old valve
If your main is an old gate valve with a round handle that's stiff or weeps at the stem, ask a plumber about swapping it for a quarter-turn ball valve. It closes in one motion, which matters when water is pouring out.
More plumbing guides
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