A homeowner guide from Drain Edge Rooter, a licensed plumbing company in Rialto, CA (C-36 #1078977). Open 24/7, call anytime: (909) 927-3194.
Knowing how to shut off your water is one of the most useful things a homeowner can learn. When a pipe bursts or a water heater leaks, every minute of running water adds to the damage. Take a few minutes now, before an emergency, to find your shutoffs and make sure everyone in the house knows where they are.
Fixture shutoff valves
Most sinks, toilets, dishwashers and washing machines have their own shutoff valves. Look under sinks and behind toilets for small oval or round handles on the supply lines. Turn them clockwise to close. If only one fixture is leaking, closing its valve may be enough.
The main water shutoff
In many Southern California homes, the main house shutoff is outside, often on the front or side of the house where the water line comes up from the ground, sometimes near the hose bib. It is usually a gate valve with a round wheel handle or a ball valve with a lever. Some homes also have a pressure regulator nearby.
- Gate valve (round handle): turn clockwise until it stops.
- Ball valve (lever): turn the lever a quarter turn so it is perpendicular to the pipe.
The street shutoff at the meter
If you cannot find or close the house shutoff, the water meter box near the street has a valve too. This valve often requires a meter key, and in many areas it belongs to the water provider. Contact your water provider if you are unsure.
Water heater shutoff
The cold water supply valve on top of the water heater stops water from flowing into the tank. For a leaking water heater, close this valve and turn off the gas (to the pilot or off position) or the electrical breaker.
After you shut off the water
- Open a faucet at the lowest point of the house to drain pressure from the lines.
- Turn off power to any area where water is near outlets or appliances, if you can do it safely.
- Move belongings and start drying wet areas.
- Take photos for your insurance company.
- Call a plumber.
Test your valves now
Valves that have not been turned in years can be stuck or start dripping once you move them. Test your main shutoff gently. If it will not close fully, leaks at the stem, or the handle is broken, have a plumber replace it before you need it in an emergency.
Gas safety
If you smell gas, do not try to find the source. Leave the house, then call the gas company and 911 from outside.
Make a simple emergency plan
- Find the main shutoff, water heater valve and fixture valves today.
- Tag the main shutoff with a label so anyone can find it.
- Keep any tool you need, such as a meter key or wrench, nearby.
- Show everyone in the household how to close it.
- Save a plumber’s number in your phone.
- Know where your gas meter and electrical panel are, too.
If you rent, ask your landlord or property manager where the shutoffs are and who to call for after-hours leaks.
Know your pressure regulator
Many homes have a pressure reducing valve near the main shutoff. It lowers the pressure coming from the street to protect fixtures and appliances. If you notice banging pipes, dripping faucets throughout the house, or a relief valve on the water heater that keeps leaking, high pressure may be the cause. A plumber can test your water pressure and check the regulator.
When to call a pro
Call a plumber for a burst pipe, a leaking water heater, water coming through a ceiling or wall, or a main shutoff that will not close. Drain Edge Rooter is open 24/7, so call anytime at (909) 927-3194.
Related services and areas
Related services: Emergency Plumbing, Leak Detection, Water Line Repair. We serve the whole Inland Empire, including plumber in Rialto, plumber in Colton, plumber in Loma Linda, plumber in Bloomington. See all homeowner plumbing guides.
How to Shut Off Your Water in an Emergency: FAQ
Where is the main water shutoff in a California home?
It is often outside where the water line enters the house, commonly on the front or side wall. Some homes have it in a garage.
Which way do I turn the valve?
Turn a round handle clockwise to close. Turn a lever a quarter turn so it is perpendicular to the pipe.
What if my shutoff valve is stuck?
Do not force it with a wrench, which can break it. Use the street shutoff if needed and have a plumber replace the valve.
Should I turn off the water heater too?
If the water will be off for a while or the heater is leaking, turn off its gas or power to protect it.
Need help?
Drain Edge Rooter is open 24/7, so call anytime at (909) 927-3194. We will talk through the problem and give you a straight answer on timing.