How To Shut Off Your Home's Water Supply
Knowing where this valve is before an emergency happens saves critical minutes.
This is one of those things that matters far more in the moment you need it than any other time — which is exactly why it's worth locating and testing before an emergency, not during one.
Finding the Main Shutoff Valve
Common locations include near the water meter at the front of the property, inside a garage, in a basement or crawlspace, or in a dedicated utility closet. In some homes it's a round wheel-style valve; in others it's a lever-style ball valve.
Shutting It Off
A wheel-style valve typically closes by turning clockwise until it stops. A lever-style ball valve closes with a quarter turn, so the handle sits perpendicular to the pipe rather than in line with it.
Testing It in Advance
Valves that haven't been used in years can seize or leak once turned. Testing the shutoff valve periodically — gently, and when there's no emergency — helps confirm it will actually work when needed.