How to Turn Off Water Supply to Your House? Do These Steps!

When water starts to pour out of nowhere and you have no idea how to stop it – that surely can cause a bit of a panic, right? 

Perhaps you have been paying for an unusually monthly high water bill or you may currently be facing some recurring issue like trying to fix a toilet that keeps running. 

This is why knowing how to turn off the water to a house is not only a handy skill, but also an absolute lifesaver during any plumbing emergencies.

Plus, learning the process is an essential part of plumbing maintenance all homeowners should master.

In this guide, we’ll outline exactly what you must do. Let’s dive in!

How to Turn Off Water Meter to Your House

Imagine water gushing into your kitchen, or worse you’re witnessing an overflowing toilet – and all you’re thinking of is how to stop it immediately.  

Undoubtedly, during those panic moments, knowing how to turn off the water meter or certain fixtures, such as your toilet, becomes rather crucial.

Your water meter is the key to stopping the flow of water into your home, and understanding how it works can save you a ton of stress and your money! 

Let’s walk through this process step by step so that you are confident to tackle any plumbing emergency.

Step 1: Find the Water Meter

First things first — find your water meter. Located usually outside your house, near the curb or sidewalk, inside a covered box labelled “Water.” 

If you live in a cold area, you may find it indoors or in the basement due to keeping your meter from freezing. If you’re not sure, check your property layout or ask your water provider.

Tip: Before checking it, be sure to have a flashlight and a pair of gloves with you since the water meter box may be either dark or dirty.

Step 2: Identify the Shut-off Valve for Your Water Meter

Once you’ve opened the box, you will see the water meter and its accompanying shut-off valve. The water meter shut-off valve is typically a round or lever-style handle located on the pipe connected to the meter. This is what you’ll use to cut off the water supply.

If the valve is a lever, turning it a quarter-turn (so it’s perpendicular to the pipe) will shut off the water. If it’s a round valve, simply turn it clockwise until it stops.

Step 3: Turn Off Water to Toilet

Sometimes, the problem is confined to one unit, such as an overflowing toilet, and you don’t have to shut off the whole water supply. 

In this case, locate the toilet’s shut-off valve near its base, where the water supply line connects to the wall. Turn this valve clockwise to stop water flow specifically to the toilet.

This quick action can prevent water damage and give you time to unclog the toilet or check for faulty components like the float mechanism inside the tank.

Step 4: Search for Leaking Drains

While you’re at it, take a moment to inspect for leaking drains near your toilet or other fixtures. . 

Water on the floor could signal loose connections or major plumbing issues. If possible, try tightening any fittings or apply temporary repairs using plumber’s tape until a professional can assess the problem.

Step 5: Verify the Water Is Off

Turn the valve and then check a faucet or flush a toilet inside your house to confirm the water is off. 

If water is still flowing, double-check the valve’s position or call a professional Melbourne plumber to assist.

Pro Tip: Regularly inspect the shut-off valve for rust or damage during your plumbing maintenance routine. A faulty valve can be a headache when you need it most!

Why Knowing How to Shut a Water Supply Off Is Important

Knowing how to turn off your water supply is more than just an exercise in preparedness in case of an emergency situation – it’s very much a big part of taking care of the home to avoid costly water damage. 

Here’s why every homeowner should master this skill.

1. Minimise Water Damage in Emergencies

When a pipe bursts or there is otherwise a significant leak, each and every second is critical! 

The quicker the flow of water can be stopped, the less damage property sustains. 

This could save you from hefty repair bills and prevent issues such as mould growth caused by sustained exposure to moisture.

2. Reduce Water Bills

You’ve paid your water bill a little higher than usual yet you can’t figure out why.  

Well, you can turn off your water supply to locate such problems as a leaking sink drain or a hidden leak. 

That way, leaks caught on time will prevent all wastewater and money waste.

3. Simplify Plumbing Repairs

Whether you attempt to fix a sink drain pipe leaking at the connection or replace  a faulty faucet, turning off the water helps in making DIY repairs much safer and cleaner. 

Hence, it helps reduce the risk of accidental flooding during routine maintenance.

4. Protect Your Family and Your Home

Knowing how to shut off the water may prevent accidents should you be living with children or elderly family members. 

A quick corrective action in plumbing emergencies guarantees safety and peace of mind for all! 

Conclusion

We hope this guide provides a clear and actionable guide on how to turn off the water supply to your house.  

Whether it is something as minor as a leak in the drain or something as urgent as an overflowing toilet, quick action can save you from water damage and expensive repairs.

If the problem is beyond a quick fix, or you might have no idea what to do next, then it’s time to call in the experts! 

At Neighbourhood Plumbing, our experienced team of plumbers is ready to assist you with everything from finding your water meter shut-off valve to addressing comprehensive complicated plumbing repairs.

Need help now? Don’t hesitate, contact us right away at 0488 885 122 and we will surely help you address plumbing emergencies with confidence! 

And if you want more tips for plumbing, have a look at our blog for helpful guides and experiences.