How to Shut Off Water During a Plumbing Emergency

Plumbing emergencies happen fast. A burst pipe, a leaking water heater, or an overflowing toilet can flood your home in minutes. The faster you shut off the water, the less damage you’ll have to deal with.

Find your main water shutoff valve and turn it clockwise until it stops. This cuts off water to your entire home. If the problem is with a sink, toilet, or appliance, use the shutoff valve near the fixture instead.

Once the water is off, check for leaks and call a plumber if needed. If water has pooled, clean it up fast to prevent mold and damage. Acting quickly can save you thousands in repairs.

Step 1 - Shut Off the Main Water Supply (For Major Leaks & Burst Pipes)

If water is spraying from a pipe or flooding your home, you need to shut off the main water supply immediately. This stops water from flowing into your home and prevents further damage.

Locate the Main Shutoff Valve

• Inside your home: Look in the basement, garage, laundry room, or near the water heater.

• Outside your home: If you have a water meter, the shutoff valve is usually near it, either in a box or underground.

Turn Off the Main Water Valve

• Gate Valve (round handle): Turn it clockwise until it stops.

• Ball Valve (lever handle): Turn it a quarter turn so it’s perpendicular to the pipe.

Drain the Pipes

After shutting off the main water supply, open a faucet on the lowest level of your home. This helps drain any remaining water and reduces pressure in the pipes.

Step 2 - Shut Off Water at Individual Fixtures (For Small Leaks & Overflows)

If the problem is limited to a single fixture—like a sink, toilet, or washing machine—you don’t need to turn off the whole house’s water supply. Instead, you can shut off water directly at the fixture.

Sinks and Faucets

• Look under the sink for two small valves (one for hot water, one for cold).

• Turn both valves clockwise until they stop.

Toilets

• Find the shutoff valve near the base of the toilet, close to the wall.

• Turn it clockwise until the water stops running.

Washing Machines & Dishwashers

• Look for two valves behind or under the appliance.

• Turn them clockwise to shut off the water.

Turning off water at the fixture can prevent small issues from turning into big ones, saving time and money.

Step 3 - Assess the Damage and Take Immediate Action

Once the water is off, the next step is damage control. Acting fast can prevent costly repairs and long-term issues like mold or structural damage.

Check for Water Damage

• Look for puddles, wet walls, or ceiling stains to see where the leak started.

• If water has spread, move furniture and electronics out of the way.

Call an Emergency Plumber

• If you can’t find the leak, water keeps dripping, or a pipe has burst, call a plumber right away.

• Many plumbers offer 24/7 emergency services, so don’t wait.

Temporary Fixes While Waiting for a Plumber

• Use plumber’s tape or a bucket to catch small leaks.

• Mop up standing water to prevent damage to floors and walls.

Shutting off water quickly is only part of the solution—taking action right after can save your home from further damage.

Conclusion

Shutting off water quickly during a plumbing emergency can save you from major damage and costly repairs. Whether it’s a burst pipe or an overflowing toilet, knowing how to turn off the main water supply or individual shutoff valves can help you take control of the situation fast.

If you need emergency plumbing help, On Budget Plumbing is here 24/7. Our team can handle leaks, burst pipes, and any urgent plumbing issue.

Call On Budget Plumbing now to get expert plumbing service when you need it most.

FAQs

1. What if I can’t find my main water shutoff valve?

Check your home inspection report or ask your water provider. If you live in an apartment, contact your building manager.

2. What should I do if the shutoff valve is stuck?

Try using a wrench for extra grip. If it won’t budge, call a plumber—forcing it too hard can break the valve.

3. How do I shut off water if I have a well system?

Find the main shutoff valve near the well pump and turn it off. You may also need to switch off the pump’s power to stop water flow completely.

4. Can turning off my water cause any damage?

No, but after turning it back on, do it slowly to prevent sudden pressure surges that could damage pipes.

5. Should I turn off my water when going on vacation?

Yes, if you’ll be gone for a long time. Shutting off the main supply prevents leaks or burst pipes while you're away.