Water is an essential resource in our daily lives, and it’s important to know how to turn off the water supply in your house. You might want to turn off water for maintenance, emergencies, or conserving water. Due to its unusual climate, water conservation is especially important in New Zealand. Learning to control your water supply and how to shut-off valve is a valuable skill. In this blog post, we will guide you through the steps to turn off your water in your house in Wellington, ensuring you’re prepared for any situation.
Step 1: Locate Your Main Water Shut-Off Valve in Wellington
The first and most critical step is to find your main water shut-off valve. In most Wellington homes, this valve is typically located near the point where the water supply line enters your property. Common places to look include:
Basement:
If you have a basement, check near the water meter or where the main water line enters the building.
Crawl Space:
For homes without a basement, the shut-off valve may be in a crawl space beneath your house.
Outside:
In some cases, especially in older homes, the valve may be located outside your house, often near the street.
If you’re having trouble locating the valve, consider consulting your property’s plans or contacting your local water provider for assistance.
Step 2: Turn Off the Main Water Supply
Once you’ve found the main shut-off valve, follow these steps to turn off your water supply:
Use the Appropriate Tool:
The shut-off valve may require a wrench or a specialized tool. Make sure you have the right tool in hand.
Turn the Valve Clockwise:
To shut off the water supply, turn the valve clockwise (right) until it is fully closed. You may need to turn it several times to completely stop the water flow.
Test Faucets:
After closing the valve, test a faucet inside your house to ensure that the water supply has been successfully turned off. If no water flows, you’ve successfully shut off the water.
Watch: How to Shut Off Water Mains in Wellington
Step 3: Turning Water Back On
When you need to turn the water back on, simply follow these steps:
Turn the Valve Counter-Clockwise: Using the same tool, turn the valve counter-clockwise (left) until it is fully open.
Test Faucets: After opening the valve, run a faucet to confirm that the water supply has been restored.
Emergency Situations
Knowing how to turn off your water supply is essential during emergencies, such as a burst pipe or a severe leak. In such cases, remember these important points:
Act Quickly:
In emergencies, time is of the essence. Locate and close the main shut-off valve as soon as possible to minimize water damage.
Contact Professionals:
After turning off the water, contact a plumber or relevant professionals to assess and repair the issue.
Being able to turn off your water supply is a valuable skill for homeowners in Wellington. This will help you be prepared for emergencies. These steps will help you control your water supply and respond to different situations with confidence. Remember, it’s a good idea to practice turning off and on your main shut-off valve periodically to ensure it functions correctly when you need it most.
If you’re facing a plumbing emergency in Wellington, don’t hesitate to call Southern at 0800 484 353. Our experienced team is available 24/7 to address your plumbing needs swiftly and professionally. Call our plumbers in your suburb including Johnsonville, Kapiti, Wellington CBD, Wairarapa, Featherston, Raumati, Paekakariki, Paraparaumu, Khandallah, Island Bay, Brooklyn, and more.
Whether it’s a burst pipe, a stubborn clog, or any other plumbing crisis, Southern has the expertise and dedication to provide immediate assistance and restore your peace of mind. Your plumbing emergency is our priority, so reach out now for prompt and reliable service.
