How do I find the main water shut-off valve in my house?

The main water shut-off valve is typically located where the water line enters your home from the street, usually in the basement near the foundation wall facing the street.

In most Ottawa homes, you'll find the main shut-off valve in the basement along the front foundation wall, close to where the water meter is installed. Look for a wheel-style valve (gate valve) or a lever-style valve (ball valve) on the main water line coming through the foundation. The water line is usually a larger pipe, typically ¾ inch to 1 inch in diameter, made of copper, plastic, or sometimes older galvanized steel.

If you don't have a basement, check the crawl space, utility room, or even the main floor near where utilities enter the home. In some newer Ottawa subdivisions, the main shut-off might be located in a utility room on the main floor. Some homes also have an exterior shut-off valve near the water meter at the street, but this typically requires a water meter key tool to operate.

For condos and townhomes, the main shut-off is often located in a utility closet or mechanical room. In apartment-style condos, there may be individual unit shut-offs in addition to a building main valve controlled by property management.

Once you locate the valve, test it annually to ensure it operates smoothly. Turn it clockwise to close (righty-tighty) and counterclockwise to open. If the valve is stiff or won't turn completely, have it serviced before you need it in an emergency. Label the valve clearly so family members can find it quickly during a plumbing emergency like a burst pipe or major leak.

Pro tip: Take a photo of your main shut-off location and share it with household members. In a plumbing emergency, every second counts in preventing water damage to your Ottawa home.

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