Most homeowners do not take the time to learn about their plumbing system. Usually as long as the system is functioning properly, they figure that there is nothing to be concerned about. However, there are certain components of the plumbing system, every homeowner should be aware of in the event there is an emergency such as a burst pipe or the system becomes backed up. One important plumbing component homeowners should know about is the Emergency Shutoff Valves.
Every homeowner should know the location of the emergency shutoff valve and how to use it. For instance, if a plumbing pipe suddenly burst and water started to flood the home, a homeowner will be able to quickly close the emergency shutoff valve to stop the flooding and prevent further damage. The quickest way to shutting off the water flow to the home is to shut the emergency shutoff valve. If you are receiving your water from the municipal water supply, you will normally find the emergency valve at the water supply meter. If you get your water supply from a private well, you will find the emergency shut-off valve at the pressure tank.
Single family homes will normally have two places where a homeowner can shut off the water coming into the home. As mentioned, one place is at the water meter. You should look inside the meter box to locate the valve handle. You will know that you have found the emergency shut-off valve, if you are able to see a valve handle. You will then know how to shut off the water in a plumbing emergency. The other area where you can find a shut-off valve is on the wall next to the water heater or in the basement. It will be a valve. A shut-off valve handle can look like a wagon wheel or lever. In some instances, you may need a wrench to close the valve lever.
There are a number of other places where you can find shut-off valves. Newer homes will have shut off valves located at each plumbing fixture such as at the sinks and bathtubs. If you have an older home, you will likely not have all of the necessary shut-off valves at each fixture. You should take special care if you have appliances such as a washer or dishwasher. When these appliances are not in use, you should turn the shut-off valves off in case a supply hose bursts.
A serious water leak in a home can result in considerable damage and financial loss. For that reason, it is important to know the location of the emergency shut-off valve. If you do not have shut-off valves installed at your fixtures, you should consider hiring a plumber to install the valves.
Properly maintaining the systems in our homes is an essential part of homeownership. Damage to furniture, floors, carpets, and other items can be very expensive. It is well worth taking the time to know where the important parts of a plumbing system are to prevent unnecessary financial hardship and possibly the loss of important valuables such as priceless family heirlooms.
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