This is an essential tip for any homeowner, and one that is criminally underrated.
It’s heartbreaking each time we’ve seen leaks and burst pipes become disasters due to a homeowner not knowing where their water shut-off valve is.
These components are vital in an emergency, and they’re going to save you time, stress, and keep your furniture safe when a leak does occur.
Since this is an informative blog, we can’t just tell you where the location is and call it a day. That would be too easy and it wouldn’t be right, since you’re probably wondering how this part works and why it’s so important.
So, let’s answer all of your questions and give a thorough examination of the intricacies of your water shut-off valve. Let’s discuss what it is, why it’s there, and how it’s going to be important during the next plumbing emergency in Appleton, WI.
What Is the Shut-Off Valve?
Every home has a part in the plumbing system that connects to the main water line. This is either where your city’s water enters your home, or the well-water from your well pump enters into your home.
It comes in through one centralized location, known as the “main water line,” and it then splits off into different areas of your house to be used by appliances and systems.
This is convenient because it means that your home only needs one access point (which reduces plumbing installation costs), and it also means that you can control the access to water.
The shut-off valve is installed right where your home has access to water, because it can simply turn on or off that access with just a manual switch.
Whether your valve is a metal lever that needs to be twisted, or it’s a cool rubber switch, it all functions the exact same–it turns the water on or off.
When the Shut-Off Valve Is Important
The shut-off valve in your home is going to be vital when there’s a leak, a burst pipe, or some kind of emergency plumbing situation that’s causing water to leak out. Your home can’t actually tell that the water is leaking (as opposed to you using it) since it’s not a thinking person.
Only a person can differentiate between a water leak and an appliance using the water. That’s why a homeowner is going to be the best first-responder when the water needs to be shut off.
In a plumbing emergency, simply turn the shut-off valve so that your home doesn’t have access to water anymore. This will mean that the leak or burst pipe will slowly stop leaking because there’s no more water flowing through this system.
Do you know what this does? It buys you time. Time to call for a professional, mop up the excess water, and even detect additional leaks.
Know Where This Part Is
We can’t stress this enough. It’s important for you to know where this valve is. You might not ever have to use it, but knowing where it is means that you’ll be well-equipped to handle the next plumbing emergency that comes your way. Then, feel free to call our team to schedule a repair when something is wrong.
Contact Tureks Plumbing Services if you need help with a plumbing repair. Terrific People, Terrific Service!