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Where is My Water Shutoff Valve?

Posted On: March 17, 2016
Water Stop Valve

Home water systems have two types of shutoff valves: main/master shutoff valves for stopping the flow of water to the entire house and individual or supply shutoff valves for specific appliances and fixtures.

Valves vary in location, shape, and number depending on the age of your home.

The main shutoff valve allows a full flow of water through the pipe when it’s open. Shutting it off cuts off the water supply to the whole house.

Crawl Space/Basement

In an older home with a crawl space and a basement, it’s common to find the shutoff valve in the crawl space or basement in your mechanical room. Look near your water heater, water softener, or outside your faucet valves!.

water shut off valve location graphic

Outside Your Home

The shut off valve may be found outside in a spigot.

A few pro tips to note:

  • Follow the path of least resistance. Water lines usually use the shortest path to get to the house.
  • Check your inspection report, your shutoff valve location should be in it.
  • Look for access panels. Shut off valves are not supposed to be sealed behind drywall, so an access panel may have been created.
  • Can’t find it? Call Genz-Ryan we’re more than happy to help you find it.

It’s important for not only you but also your family to know where the main water shutoff valve is and how to use it. It’s a great idea to place a tag on the valve to label it, and better yet write your plumber’s name and phone number on the label for reference in case of an emergency.

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