Where to look
- Where the water line enters the house, often in the basement, crawlspace or utility room.
- Near the water heater.
- Outside, in a ground box near the street. This is the utility's valve; don't use it unless instructed.
Types of valves
- Wheel handle (gate valve): turn clockwise until tight.
- Lever handle (ball valve): turn a quarter turn so the lever is crosswise to the pipe.
Test it
Turn it off, then open a faucet. If the water stops, you've got the right one.
Tip: put a tag on it, or take a photo and save it on your phone. Tell everyone in the house where it is.
If it's stuck or leaks when you turn it, stop. Don't force it. Call us.
Still stuck? Call 1-855-475-7827. A real person answers 24/7.