Admittedly, this is not an exciting post. However, it is an important one if you own a home, townhome, or condo.
By code, many municipalities require that plumbing fixtures, such as sinks and toilets, have water supply valves. It is important to locate these valves so you can turn off the water in case of an accidental leak or toilet overflow.
However, over time these valves can become corroded and impossible to turn. Therefore, it is imperative to have a backup plan, and that plan is to know where the home’s main supply valve is located.
The main supply valve is typically located very close to where the water supply enters the home. If your home uses city water that will be on the street side of the building.
The valve will either be a ball or gate valve, and it is common to see two of these valves in parallel with a water meter sandwiched in between if you are using city water.
Lastly, if you are closing off your main water to do a replacement or repair it is important to open up your faucets to bleed any water left in your system. Otherwise, you will create a watery mess.
Main supply valves can also become stiff with time, so it is a good idea to practice closing and opening them a few times BEFORE you are in an emergency situation. That way you know that you will be able to shut the water down in a crisis.
