Blog

WHERE TO FIND THE SHUT-OFF VALVE DURING A PLUMBING EMERGENCY

June 17, 2024

Water leaks and burst pipes can cause costly damage to your home and property. A burst 1/2″ pipe can gush out 50 gallons of water every minute! When you experience a plumbing emergency, knowing the location of your home’s water shut-off valves can prevent disaster.

WHAT IS A SHUT-OFF VALVE?

In residential plumbing systems, many fixtures and appliances are equipped with water shut-off valves. Shut-off valves are devices that control the flow of water to various fixtures, appliances, and pipes. These valves play a crucial role in regulating the flow of water to various parts of your home, ensuring you can quickly and effectively manage your water supply during maintenance, emergencies, or routine tasks.

WHERE TO FIND A SHUT-OFF VALVE

Here’s where you can find the various water shut-off valves in your home:

  • Toilets – A toilet’s shut-off valve is typically located on the water supply line leading to the toilet tank. It’s usually found near the base of the toilet, close to the wall.
  • Sinks – Both kitchen and bathroom sinks usually have shut-off valves for the hot and cold water supply lines. You’ll find them under the sink, within the cabinet, or vanity.
  • Dishwashers – Most dishwashers have a dedicated shut-off valve on the water supply line. This valve is usually located under the kitchen sink, near where the water line branches off to the dishwasher.
  • Refrigerators with Ice Makers/Water Dispensers – Refrigerators equipped with ice makers and water dispensers usually have a shut-off valve on the small water line that supplies them. This valve is typically found behind the refrigerator or under the kitchen sink.
  • Washing Machines -Like sinks, washing machines have shut-off valves for both hot and cold water supply lines. These valves are installed where the water hoses connect to the wall, usually in the laundry area.
  • Bathtubs and Showers – The shut-off valves for bathtubs and showers are often installed in an access panel near the fixture or in the basement or crawl space below the bathroom.
  • Water Heaters – Water heaters have shut-off valves on the cold-water inlet line.
  • Outdoor Faucets (Hose Bibs) – Outdoor faucets often have a shut-off valve inside the house, typically in the basement or crawl space, where the water line to the exterior faucet begins. This valve is useful for winterizing outdoor faucets to prevent freezing.
  • Main Water Supply Line – The main shut-off valve controls the flow of water into the entire house. This valve is usually located near where the water line enters the home.

CONTACT 1ST CHOICE PLUMBING, FLOOD & RESTORATION WITHOUT DELAY

Once you’ve closed the shut-off valve, contact 1st Choice Plumbing, Flood & Restoration without delay. Our team of licensed Oceanside, CA, plumbers is available 24/7 to tackle whatever plumbing emergency you may be experiencing. In most cases, we can be on-site within an hour of your call; most leaks and other problems can be resolved in a single visit.

Call 1st Choice Plumbing, Flood & Restoration at 866-437-0205 or contact us online for expert plumbing services in Oceanside, CA.