If a pipe bursts in your home, high-pressure water will flood your floors in seconds. By the time an emergency plumber arrives, severe damage will be done unless you shut off the water immediately.
Every member of your household should know exactly where the main shut-off valve is located. Here is how to find it and operate it.
Finding the Main Water Valve
The main shut-off valve is usually located inside the house, at the point where the municipal supply line enters the foundation. Check these locations:
- The Basement: Look near the front foundation wall, typically waist-high.
- The Garage: Often located near the water heater if it's installed in the garage.
- Crawl Space: Located just inside the crawl space access door.
- Utility Closet: In slab-built homes, it may be hidden behind an access panel in a utility closet or laundry room.
Types of Valves and How to Use Them
Once you locate the valve, you need to know how to turn it off. There are two common types of valves in Dunwoody homes:
1. The Ball Valve (The Lever)
This is the most modern and reliable type. It has a straight handle. When the water is ON, the handle runs parallel (in line) with the pipe. To turn the water OFF, turn the lever 90 degrees so it creates a cross shape against the pipe.
2. The Gate Valve (The Wheel)
Common in older homes, this looks like a circular steering wheel (like a garden hose spigot). To turn the water OFF, turn the wheel clockwise (to the right) as far as it will go. Do not force it if it is seized, as it can snap off.
The Street Meter Pit (Last Resort)
If the inside valve is broken, hidden, or seized, your last resort is the municipal meter pit near the street. You will need a heavy wrench or a specialized "water meter key" to turn the street valve clockwise.