choreloop › Guides › Home Maintenance › Locate & Test Main Water Shut-Off Valve

Locate & Test Main Water Shut-Off Valve

Make sure the main water shut-off valve turns freely and everyone in the household knows where it is so you can stop flooding fast in an emergency.

Supplies You'll Need

• Flashlight
• Adjustable wrench (if the valve is stiff)
• Tag or label

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Locate the main water shut-off valve and clear any stored items blocking access to it.
2. Slowly turn the valve fully closed, then fully open again to keep it from seizing.
3. Turn on a faucet to confirm water flow stops and restarts as expected.
4. If the valve is stiff, apply penetrating oil and gently work it back and forth with a wrench.
5. Attach a brightly colored tag to the valve labeled 'MAIN WATER SHUT-OFF'.
6. Test individual fixture shut-off valves under sinks and behind toilets the same way.