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How to Shut off Water to Your Home in an Emergency

Last updated October 25, 2026

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The short answer

Locate Your Main Shutoff Valve

The main shutoff valve controls all water entering your home. It is typically located near the water meter, in a crawlspace, garage, or where the main supply line enters through an exterior wall. In warm climates, it may be outside in a covered box near the street.

  • Check near the water heater for a secondary shutoff
  • Look for a curb stop valve in a small box near the street
  • Label the valve with a tag or bright paint
  • Ensure the valve is accessible, not blocked by storage
  • Know whether your valve is a wheel or lever type

Turn off Individual Fixture Valves

If you cannot reach the main valve quickly, close the valves under sinks, behind toilets, and at the washing machine. These are usually small, round handles that turn clockwise. They stop water to that fixture only, which can reduce flooding while you find the main shutoff.

For the water heater, turn off the cold water inlet valve on top of the tank. This prevents the tank from emptying and stops new water from entering. Do not turn off the hot water outlet. After closing these valves, open a faucet to relieve pressure and drain lines.

  • Under-sink valves are often oval or round handles
  • Toilet shutoffs are behind the base, near the floor
  • Washing machine valves are usually two knobs on the wall
  • Turn clockwise until snug, but do not force
  • Open a lower faucet to drain remaining water

Shut off Water Heater Safely

If you are shutting off water for an extended period, protect your water heater. Turn off the cold water supply valve to the tank. Then, for gas heaters, turn the gas control to pilot or off. For electric heaters, switch off the circuit breaker at the panel.

Leaving a water heater on with no incoming water can damage the heating elements or overheat the tank. After the water is shut off, open a hot water faucet upstairs to allow air in and let the tank drain slowly if needed.

If you smell gas or hear a hiss, leave the area and call the gas utility from outside. Do not touch electrical switches. See a doctor if you feel unwell.

  • Know whether your heater is gas or electric
  • Locate the cold water inlet valve before an emergency
  • Turn off the gas or electricity only after water supply is closed
  • Drain the tank only if you plan to leave it off for days
  • If unsure, shut off the main valve and call a plumber

Handle a Burst Pipe or Leak

When a pipe bursts, shut off the main valve immediately. Then open the lowest faucet in the house to drain remaining water and reduce pressure. If the leak is from a specific appliance, like a washing machine, close its supply valve first if it is closer than the main.

After stopping the water, turn off electricity to affected rooms if water has reached outlets or appliances. Do not walk through standing water near electrical panels. Wear rubber boots for safety. See a doctor if you feel unwell.

  • Turn off main valve before touching anything
  • Open a low faucet to drain lines
  • Shut off power to wet areas at the breaker
  • Move rugs and furniture out of standing water
  • Use towels and a mop to remove standing water
  • Call a plumber for pipe repairs

When to Call for Professional Help

If you cannot find the main shutoff, or if the valve is broken and will not turn, stop trying and call a plumber. A plumber can locate the valve or install a new one. Do not attempt to dig up the street or force a stuck valve, as that can cause a worse leak.

For major water damage that has already occurred, the pros can help with extraction and drying. They have industrial pumps and dehumidifiers to remove water from carpets, drywall, and subfloors. Acting quickly reduces the chance of mold growth.

Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Check your policy to see if water damage from a burst pipe is included. Document the damage with photos before any cleanup begins.

  • If the main valve is stuck, call a plumber
  • For flooding, contact local water damage pros
  • Take photos of damage for your records
  • Dry wet items within 24 to 48 hours
  • Keep records of any repairs or cleanup

Talk to someone now

Phones are answered 24/7 for Bonita Springs and nearby communities.

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Frequently asked questions

Where is the main water shutoff valve usually located?

The main valve is usually near the water meter, in a crawlspace, garage, or where the supply pipe enters the house. In warm climates, it may be outside in a covered box near the street. Check the perimeter of your home first.

What if I cannot turn the shutoff valve?

If the valve will not turn, do not force it. Call a plumber to repair or replace it. In the meantime, close all individual fixture valves to reduce flow. If water is still leaking, shut off the water at the meter using a wrench, if you have access.

Should I turn off my water heater before shutting off the main water?

Turn off the water heater's cold water inlet valve first to prevent draining the tank. For gas heaters, switch the gas to pilot or off. For electric, turn off the breaker. This protects the heating elements from damage when the water supply is restored.

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