Your main water shut-off valve is something that you probably won't need to worry about unless you have a major water leak. But if a pipe bursts and you have water spewing out of your ceiling or behind a wall, you'll be glad you took the time to learn more about it ahead of time.
What Are Water Shut Off Valves?
Water shut-off valves are like circuit breakers for your plumbing. They're designed to prevent water from damaging your home if a water line ruptures or if you're replacing a fixture. They shut off water and prevent it from flowing through your plumbing when you don’t want it to.
When Do I Need To Use It?
There are water shut off valves connected to your toilets, your sinks and other plumbing fixtures throughout your home. If you are repairing or replacing one of these plumbing fixtures, you'll want to use the water shut-off valve to prevent a water leak when the fixture is disconnected.
But your main water shut-off valve is essential during plumbing emergencies. If you’re dealing with a large leak and water is flowing uncontrollably, then shutting off all the water to your house can stop it immediately.
If you’re doing plumbing work or remodeling your bathroom or kitchen, you’ll also want the water turned off so you or your plumber in Springfield, Missouri can do the job without worrying about water going everywhere and damaging your home.
Where Is My Main Water Shut-Off Valve?
Your main water shut-off valve can be located in a number of different areas, depending on the type of building and its water source. It could be inside or outside your home.
If you have City water, then your main water line likely comes through beneath the street. Check your furnace room or the utility box near your road.
If you have well water, there are two valves to look for, one on either side of your pressure tank. Shut-off valves may be located underground, so if you’re unable to find it on your own, consult someone knowledgeable, like a professional plumber in Springfield, Missouri, to help you determine its location.
Most plumbing fixtures and appliances have their own individual valves to shut off water flow, but keep in mind that these are for those fixtures only, not for all of your plumbing.
Your main water shut-off valve will stop all water from flowing into your home, so make sure you know where it is located in case of a plumbing emergency.
Find It Before You Need It
It’s essential to know the location of your main water shut-off valve before a water emergency arises. If a water line ruptures or a pipe bursts, you don't want to be frantically searching around your home for where to stop the water leak from damaging your home.
Have more peace of mind by knowing the location of your water shut-off valve. If you've searched high and low and still can't find it, give us a call and we'll be happy to help. Whether it's fixing a water leak or helping prevent one, you can always count on the professionals at United Plumbing to protect your home and keep your plumbing working properly.