Home / Find and exercise your shutoff valves

Find and exercise your shutoff valves

A shutoff valve that won't turn is the most common reason a small leak becomes a big flood. Find yours now, and test them twice a year.

Where to look

• Main shutoff at the house: on the wall where the water line enters, often near the garage, a front hose bib or the water heater. It may be a lever (quarter-turn ball valve) or a round handle (gate valve).
• Meter box at the curb: the water district's meter and a valve that usually needs a meter key. The meter itself belongs to the district.
• Fixture valves: under sinks and toilets, behind the washer, dishwasher and refrigerator, and on top of the water heater.

How to exercise a valve

1. Turn it slowly to closed, then slowly back to fully open.
2. Lever valves: a quarter turn. Round handles: turn gently, and don't force a stuck valve.
3. Check for drips at the stem afterward. A valve that won't close or leaks after turning should be replaced by a plumber.