Water emergencies can happen any time without a warning. Being able to turn off the water supply in your apartment can save you from potential disasters such as flooding. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps on how to turn off water in your apartment safely.
Locate Your Water Shut-Off Valve
Before turning off the water supply, it’s important to know where the shut-off valve is located. Typically, the water shut-off valve is located in the basement or utility closet of your apartment building. You can also ask your landlord or property manager for its location. In some cases, the water shut-off valve is inside your apartment, usually under the sink or in the closet where the hot water tank is located.
Turn Off the Main Water Valve
Once you’ve located the water shut-off valve, it’s time to turn it off. The main water valve controls the flow of water to your entire apartment. Turning it off will stop the water from running to all faucets and appliances in your apartment. To turn off the main water valve, follow these simple steps:
1. Locate the shut-off valve
2. Turn the valve handle clockwise until it stops
3. Once the valve is fully closed, turn on a faucet to release any remaining water pressure.
Turning off the Water Valve Under the Sink
If you’re dealing with a water emergency in your kitchen or bathroom, you may need to turn off the water supply to a specific appliance or fixture. In this case, you can turn off the water valve located under the sink.
1. Look under the sink for the water valve handle
2. Turn the valve handle clockwise until it stops
3. Once the valve is fully closed, turn on the faucet to release any remaining water pressure.
Turning off the Water Valve on the Toilet
If you’re dealing with a clogged toilet or a leaky tank, you may need to shut off the water valve that feeds water to the toilet. The valve is usually located behind the toilet or on the wall next to the toilet. Here’s how to turn off the water valve on the toilet:
1. Locate the water valve behind the toilet
2. Turn the valve handle clockwise until it stops
3. Once the valve is fully closed, flush the toilet to drain any remaining water in the tank.
Shutting Off Water in Emergency Situations
In some situations, you may need to turn off the water supply to your apartment quickly. If you can’t locate the water shut-off valve or it’s not working, shutting off the water main to the entire building is an option. Here’s what you should do:
1. Locate the emergency water shut-off valve outside your building
2. Use a water meter key or pliers to turn the valve handle clockwise until it stops
3. Contact your landlord or property manager to let them know that you have shut off the water main.
Conclusion
Being able to turn off the water supply in your apartment is an essential skill that every tenant should have. Knowing how to locate and turn off the main water valve, water valves under the sink, and the toilet can help prevent costly water damage to your apartment. When dealing with an emergency, always remember to stay calm and contact your landlord or property manager for assistance.