turn-off-water Archives * flexco.com

5 Essential Steps to Turn Off Water to Shower

Knowing how to turn off the water to your shower is an essential home maintenance skill. Not only can it help you save water and energy, but it can also prevent damage to your bathroom and plumbing system. Whether you’re dealing with a leaky showerhead or a burst pipe, being able to shut off the water quickly and easily can save you a lot of time, money, and hassle.

Before you start, it’s essential to locate the water supply to your shower. The water supply is usually located behind the shower wall, but it can vary depending on the layout of your bathroom. Once you’ve found the water supply, you’ll need to identify the shut-off valves. Shut-off valves are usually located at the base of the showerhead or on the wall near the shower. The shut-off valves may be labeled “hot” and “cold,” or they may have a single handle that controls both the hot and cold water.

To turn off the water to your shower, simply turn the shut-off valves clockwise. You should turn the valves until they are hand-tight, but be careful not to overtighten them, as this can damage the valves. Once the valves are closed, the water to your shower will be shut off.If you’re dealing with a leaky showerhead or a burst pipe, you may need to call a plumber to repair the leak or replace the pipe. However, if you’re simply trying to conserve water or energy, you can turn off the water to your shower yourself by following the steps outlined above.

How To Turn Off Water To Shower

The shower is an essential part of most people’s morning routine, but sometimes you may need to turn off the water to shower to fix a leak or make repairs. If you don’t know how to turn off the water to shower, don’t worry, it’s a simple process that can be done in just a few steps.

First, locate the water shut-off valves for your shower. These valves are usually located behind the showerhead or on the wall near the shower. Once you have found the valves, turn them clockwise to turn off the water.
If the valves are hard to turn, you may need to use a pair of pliers or a wrench to loosen them.

Once the valves are closed, the water to your shower will be turned off. You can now proceed with fixing the leak or making the repairs that you need to make.

3 Easy Steps on How to Turn Off Water to a Water Heater

In the labyrinthine network of pipes and valves that bring water to our homes, the water heater stands as a crucial cog in the system. Like a tireless guardian, it diligently provides us with a steady stream of warm water, making our daily lives more comfortable. However, when maintenance or repairs are necessary, it’s essential to know how to turn off the water supply to your trusty water heater. This guide will illuminate the steps involved, ensuring a safe and efficient process.

Before embarking on this task, it’s crucial to identify two vital components: the cold water inlet valve and the hot water outlet valve. These valves, typically located near the base of the water heater, control the flow of water into and out of the appliance. Once identified, the process of turning off the water supply becomes straightforward. Begin by turning off the cold water inlet valve. This valve is usually on the left side of the water heater and has a handle or knob. Firmly turn the handle clockwise until it reaches the fully closed position.

With the cold water supply now isolated, it’s time to address the hot water outlet valve. This valve, located on the right side of the water heater, also has a handle or knob. As before, turn the handle clockwise until it stops, effectively cutting off the flow of hot water from the appliance. Congratulations! You have successfully turned off the water supply to your water heater. Remember, this process is not only essential for maintenance and repairs but also in the event of an emergency, such as a leak. By following these steps, you can ensure a safe and controlled environment while working on your water heater.

Identifying Your Water Heater

Water heaters are essential appliances that provide us with a consistent supply of hot water for various household tasks. However, there may come a time when you need to shut off the water supply to your water heater for maintenance or repairs. Before proceeding, it’s crucial to correctly identify your water heater type.

Tank-Type Water Heaters

These are the most common type of water heater and are usually cylindrical in shape. They have a large storage tank that holds the heated water. Tank-type water heaters typically have a capacity of 30 to 80 gallons, with larger capacities providing a greater supply of hot water.

To identify a tank-type water heater, look for a large, cylindrical tank. The tank is usually made of steel or fiberglass and is located in a basement, utility room, or closet. The tank may have a jacket or insulation around it to maintain the water temperature.

Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless water heaters are becoming increasingly popular due to their efficiency and space-saving design. They do not have a storage tank and instead heat water on demand. Tankless water heaters are typically mounted on a wall or ceiling and can provide an endless supply of hot water as long as there is a gas or electric supply.

To identify a tankless water heater, look for a compact unit that is mounted on a wall or ceiling. The unit will have pipes connected to it for both the water supply and the gas or electric source. Tankless water heaters often have a digital display that shows the water temperature and allows for adjustments.

Water Heater Type	Appearance	Location
Tank-Type	Large, cylindrical tank with a jacket or insulation	Basement, utility room, or closet
Tankless	Compact unit mounted on a wall or ceiling	Wall or ceiling in a utility room, basement, or bathroom

Safety Precautions

Before beginning any work, it is crucial to take necessary safety precautions to prevent accidents:

Gather necessary tools and materials. Locate a crescent wrench, a bucket, towels, and a new washer (if needed).
Cut off electricity and gas to the water heater.
1. Electricity: Turn off the circuit breaker or fuse that powers the water heater. If you’re not sure which one it is, consult an electrician.
2. Gas: If your water heater uses gas, locate the gas supply valve and turn it off. This valve is usually near the bottom of the heater.
Allow the water heater to cool. The water inside the tank can be extremely hot. Give it at least 30 minutes to cool down before touching anything.
Wear protective gear. Wear gloves and eye protection when working with water heaters.

li>Relieve pressure from the water heater. To do this, locate the pressure relief valve and lift the handle. Be careful, as hot water may come out.

Turn off the main water supply. This is usually done by turning the valve located where the main water line enters your house.
Open a hot water faucet. This will help drain some of the water from the pipes.

Locating the Water Supply

Identifying the Shutoff Valves

Locate the two shutoff valves that control the cold and hot water supply to your water heater. These valves are typically located near the base of the unit, where the water pipes enter the heater. They are usually made of brass or plastic and have a handle that you can turn to open or close the valve.

Cold Water Shutoff Valve

The cold water shutoff valve is usually located on the left side of the water heater, as seen from the front. It controls the flow of cold water into the unit.

Hot Water Shutoff Valve

The hot water shutoff valve is typically located on the right side of the water heater. It controls the flow of hot water out of the unit.

Pipes and Connections

In addition to the shutoff valves, you should also identify the pipes and connections that supply water to and from the water heater. This will help you make sure that you are turning off the correct valves and that you are not accidentally disconnecting any pipes.

Pipe Type	Purpose
Cold Water Supply Pipe	Supplies cold water to the water heater
Hot Water Supply Pipe	Supplies hot water from the water heater
Drain Pipe	Drains water from the water heater when it is serviced or replaced
Gas Line (if applicable)	Supplies gas to a gas-powered water heater

Shutting Off the Cold Water Valve

Locate the cold water valve that supplies water to the water heater. This valve is usually located near the top of the water heater, and it may be blue or have a blue handle.

Turn the valve clockwise to shut off the water supply to the water heater. You should feel resistance as you turn the valve, and it may take several turns to completely shut off the water.

If you are having trouble turning the valve by hand, you can use a pair of pliers or a wrench to help you. However, be careful not to overtighten the valve, as this could damage it.

Once the valve is completely shut off, you will need to drain the water from the water heater. To do this, follow these steps:

Step	Action
1	Open a hot water faucet in the house to allow air to enter the water heater.
2	Open the drain valve at the bottom of the water heater.
3	Allow the water to drain completely from the water heater.
4	Close the drain valve once the water has stopped flowing.
5	Close the hot water faucet that you opened in step 1.

Once the water has been drained from the water heater, you can proceed with the rest of the repairs or maintenance that you need to do.

Shutting Off the Gas Valve (Gas Water Heaters)

Gas water heaters require shutting off the gas supply before performing maintenance or repairs. Here’s a detailed guide to safely turn off the gas valve:

1. Locate the Gas Valve

The gas valve is typically located near the base of the water heater, close to where the gas line connects. It’s usually a round, brass-colored knob with a lever or handle.

2. Shut Off the Valve

Turn the gas valve knob or lever clockwise until it stops. This will completely shut off the gas supply to the water heater.

3. Check for Leaks

After turning off the gas, use a gas leak detector or soapy water to check for any leaks. Apply soapy water to the valve and surrounding connections. If bubbles appear, there’s a leak that needs to be repaired.

4. Use a Wrench (Optional)

In some cases, the gas valve may be difficult to turn by hand. Use a crescent wrench or pipe wrench to gently tighten the valve knob to ensure it’s fully closed.

5. Additional Safety Measures

Here are some additional safety measures to consider:

Turn on a faucet to release any residual gas from the pipes before lighting any appliances.
If you smell gas or suspect a leak, evacuate the area and call your gas company immediately.
Do not attempt to repair a gas leak yourself. Contact a qualified plumber or gas technician.

6. Lighting the Pilot Light

Once the maintenance or repair is complete, you can turn the gas valve back on by turning the knob or lever counterclockwise. Light the pilot light according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Draining the Water Heater

Draining your water heater is a necessary step before performing maintenance or repairs. It’s also a good idea to drain it annually to remove sediment and maintain its efficiency. Here are the steps to safely drain your water heater:

Materials You’ll Need:

Item	Quantity
Garden hose	1
Bucket	1
Wrench	1

Step 1: Shut Off the Water Supply

Turn off the main water supply to your home. This is usually located near the water meter or under the kitchen sink.

Step 2: Turn Off the Gas or Electricity

If your water heater is gas-powered, turn off the gas supply at the valve located on the gas line. If it’s electric, flip the breaker or remove the fuse that powers it.

Step 3: Connect the Garden Hose

Attach one end of the garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the water heater. Run the other end of the hose to a bucket or drain.

Step 4: Open the Drain Valve

Slowly open the drain valve using a wrench. Water will start draining out of the water heater.

Step 5: Flush the Water Heater

Once the water stops flowing, gradually open the cold water faucet at the highest fixture in your home. This will help flush out the remaining water from the pipes and prevent air pockets.

Step 6: Release the Remaining Water

After the cold water faucet stops flowing, close the drain valve. Then, remove the anode rod from the top of the water heater to release any remaining water. Wrap a rag around the rod to prevent any water from spraying. Be careful as the water may be hot.

Once all the water has been drained, you can proceed with the maintenance or repairs on your water heater.

Using a Drain Pan

Step 1: Gather Materials

Before you begin, make sure you have the following materials on hand:

Wrench or pliers
Bucket or drain pan
Rags or towels

Step 2: Locate the Water Heater

Find the location of your water heater. It is typically found in a utility room, basement, or garage.

Step 3: Identify the Water Supply Valves

Once you have located the water heater, identify the cold and hot water supply valves. These valves are usually located near the top of the water heater tank.

Step 4: Shut Off the Cold Water Supply Valve

Using a wrench or pliers, turn the cold water supply valve clockwise to shut it off. This will stop the flow of cold water into the water heater.

Step 5: Open a Hot Water Tap

Open a hot water tap somewhere in your home to relieve the pressure in the water heater tank.

Step 6: Check for Leaks

After shutting off the water supply valve, check for any leaks around the valve or at the base of the water heater. If you notice any leaks, tighten the valve or call a plumber for assistance.

Step 7: Drain the Water Heater

Place the bucket or drain pan under the drain valve located at the bottom of the water heater tank. Using a wrench or pliers, slowly open the drain valve to drain the water from the tank. Be careful as the water may be hot.

Caution:

|
|—|—|
|Do not open the drain valve too quickly, as this can cause the water to splash or leak.|
|If you are not comfortable draining the water heater yourself, call a plumber for assistance.|

Reopening the Water Supply

Once you have completed any necessary repairs or maintenance on your water heater, it is important to reopen the water supply to the heater. This will allow water to flow back into the heater, enabling it to heat the water and provide hot water to your home.

Steps to Reopen the Water Supply

To reopen the water supply to your water heater, follow these steps:

1. Locate the main water shutoff valve for your home. This valve is typically located in the basement or crawlspace.

2. Slowly open the main water shutoff valve by turning it counterclockwise.

3. Locate the water supply valve to the water heater. This valve is typically located near the water heater itself.

4. Slowly open the water supply valve to the water heater by turning it counterclockwise.

5. Check for any leaks around the water heater and water supply lines. If you see any leaks, turn off the water supply and contact a plumber.

6. Turn on a hot water faucet in your home to allow air to escape from the water heater and pipes.

7. Run the hot water until it runs clear and hot. This will indicate that the water heater is full and heating properly.

8. Check the temperature of the hot water to ensure it is at the desired temperature. If it is not, adjust the temperature setting on the water heater as needed.

Troubleshooting

If you’re having trouble turning off the water to your water heater, here are a few things you can check:

9. The water valve is stuck

If the water valve is stuck, you may need to replace it. To do this, you will need to:

Turn off the water supply to the water heater.
Disconnect the water lines from the water valve.
Remove the old water valve and install the new one.
Reconnect the water lines to the water valve.
Turn on the water supply to the water heater.

Valve Type	How To Unstick
Gate Valve	Use a wrench to turn the wheel counterclockwise
Globe Valve	Use a screwdriver to loosen the packing nut and then turn the wheel counterclockwise
Ball Valve	Use a wrench to turn the handle counterclockwise

Hiring a Plumber (If Necessary)

In certain situations, it may be necessary to seek professional assistance from a plumber. Consider the following scenarios:

Complex plumbing systems: If your water heater is connected to a complex plumbing network, it’s advisable to hire a plumber to avoid potential complications during the shutdown process.
Gas water heaters: Working with gas appliances requires specialized knowledge and safety precautions. Engage a licensed plumber to ensure proper handling and avoid gas leaks.
Unknown location of water shut-off valve: If you’re unable to locate or access the main water shut-off valve, seek a plumber’s assistance to prevent uncontrolled water flow.
Frozen or inaccessible water shut-off valve: In freezing conditions or if the valve is inaccessible, a plumber can utilize specialized tools or techniques to safely turn off the water supply.

10. Check for Leaks

Once the water is turned off, thoroughly inspect the water heater, supply lines, and any connected components for any leaks. If you notice even a small drip, it’s crucial to address it promptly. Leaks can gradually worsen, leading to costly repairs or water damage.

How To Turn Off Water To Water Heater

There are a few different ways to turn off the water to a water heater. The most common way is to use the shut-off valves that are located on the cold water supply line and the hot water outlet line. These valves are typically located near the top of the water heater.

To turn off the water using the shut-off valves, simply turn the valves clockwise until they are completely closed. Once the valves are closed, no water will be able to flow into or out of the water heater.

Some water heaters also have a drain valve located at the bottom of the tank. This valve can be used to drain the water from the tank if necessary.

4 Easy Steps: Turn Off Water Under Sink

If you’re experiencing a plumbing issue, such as a leaky faucet or a running toilet, it’s important to know how to turn off the water supply under the sink. This will help you to prevent further water damage and give you time to call a plumber. Turning off the water under the sink is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few minutes. However, it’s important to follow the steps carefully to avoid causing any damage to your plumbing system.

The first step is to locate the water shut-off valves. These valves are usually located under the sink, near the base of the faucet. There will be two valves, one for the hot water and one for the cold water. Turn the valves clockwise to shut off the water supply. If the valves are difficult to turn, you can use a wrench to assist you. Once the valves are closed, the water supply to the sink will be turned off.

If you’re unable to locate the water shut-off valves under the sink, you may need to turn off the water supply to your entire home. To do this, locate the main water shut-off valve, which is usually located near the street or in the basement. Turn the valve clockwise to shut off the water supply to your home. Once the water supply is turned off, you will need to contact a plumber to fix the leak or other plumbing issue.

Identifying the Shut-Off Valves

Shut-off valves are essential plumbing components that allow you to control the flow of water to different fixtures and appliances in your home. When you need to turn off the water under a sink, it’s crucial to locate and operate the correct shut-off valves.

Typically, there are two types of shut-off valves located under a sink:

Valve Type	Function
Cold Water Shut-Off Valve	Controls the flow of cold water to the sink. It’s usually located on the left-hand side of the sink cabinet, connected to the cold water supply pipe.
Hot Water Shut-Off Valve	Controls the flow of hot water to the sink. It’s typically located on the right-hand side of the sink cabinet, connected to the hot water supply pipe.

To identify the shut-off valves, start by looking for a small knob or lever on the pipes under the sink. The knobs or levers are usually made of plastic or metal and have a handle that you can turn. If you have difficulty locating the valves, you can consult the user manual for your sink or contact a licensed plumber for assistance.

Locating the Water Supply Line

Identifying the water supply line beneath your sink is the initial step in effectively turning off the water supply. Follow these comprehensive instructions to locate the line:

1. **Inspect your sink’s base:** Examine the area underneath the sink for any pipes or hoses connected to the faucets or appliances. The water supply line is typically made of copper, PEX, or CPVC and may be concealed behind a cabinet panel or sink skirt.
2. **Follow the pipes:** Trace the pipes from the faucets or appliances towards the wall. The water supply line will likely run from the wall or floor towards the fixture. It may have a shut-off valve attached, which is used to control the water flow to the fixture.
3. **Check behind the sink:** If you cannot locate the water supply line from the front, check behind the sink. Access this area by opening the cabinet doors beneath the sink and removing any obstructions. You should be able to see the water supply line connecting to the faucets or appliances from this vantage point.
4. **Identify the main water shut-off valve:** In addition to the individual shut-off valves for each fixture, there may also be a main water shut-off valve for the entire house. This valve is usually located near the water meter or outside the house where the water line enters the property.

Turning Off the Hot Water Valve

Locate the hot water valve, which is typically red or has a red handle. It will be located under the sink, either directly behind the hot water faucet or to the side of it. If your sink has two handles, the one on the left is usually for hot water.

For compression valves:

Step	Description
1	Turn the valve handle clockwise until it is snug.
2	Use a wrench or pliers to gently tighten the packing nut (the ring around the base of the valve handle) just enough to stop the leak.

For cartridge valves:

Step	Description
1	Pull the handle up to release it from the cartridge.
2	Use a wrench to unscrew the cartridge counterclockwise.
3	Insert a new cartridge into the valve body and tighten it clockwise.
4	Push the handle back onto the cartridge and turn it on to check for leaks.

Turning Off the Cold Water Valve

Before attempting any repairs or changes under the sink, it is essential to turn off the water supply. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to turn off the cold water valve:

Identify the Main Water Valve

Locate the main water valve, usually found in a utility room or basement. This valve controls the water supply to the entire house.

Turn the Valve Clockwise

Using a pair of pliers or an adjustable wrench, turn the valve clockwise. The valve is closed when it is turned perpendicular to the pipe leading to the sink.

Troubleshooting Tips

Valve is difficult to turn: Apply penetrating oil to the valve threads and allow it to sit for several minutes before trying again.
Valve is leaking: Replace the valve washer or packing. Contact a plumber if the leak persists.
Valve cannot be closed completely: The valve seat may be worn out. Contact a plumber to replace the valve.

Tightening the Valves

1. Locate the valves: Under the sink, find the two valves that supply hot and cold water to the faucet. They’re typically located near the base of the faucet, with handles or levers on top that you can turn.

2. Turn off the water supply: Rotate the handles or levers clockwise to turn off the water flow. You may need to use pliers or a wrench for stubborn valves.

3. Determine valve type: Most valves are either stem-type or compression-type. Stem-type valves have a protruding spindle, while compression-type valves have a nut that you can tighten.

4. Tightening stem-type valves: Using a flathead screwdriver or a wrench, gently tighten the screw located on top of the valve stem. Avoid overtightening as it can damage the valve.

5. Tightening compression-type valves: This involves two methods depending on the valve design:

Method 1	Method 2
Use pliers to tighten the packing nut located below the valve handle. Tighten it gradually while holding the handle securely to prevent it from moving.	Remove the valve handle and use a wrench to tighten the nut located at the base of the valve stem. Be cautious not to overtighten to avoid damage.

Method 1

Method 2

Use pliers to tighten the packing nut located below the valve handle.

Tighten it gradually while holding the handle securely to prevent it from moving.

Remove the valve handle and use a wrench to tighten the nut located at the base of the valve stem.

Be cautious not to overtighten to avoid damage.

Inspecting for Leaks

Thoroughly inspecting your under-sink plumbing for leaks is a crucial step before attempting any repairs. Here’s a detailed guide to identify leaks effectively:

1. Visual Inspection

Examine all visible pipes, joints, and fixtures for signs of dripping or moisture. Pay close attention to connections where pipes change direction or transition to different materials.

2. Check Tightness

Hand-tighten any loose nuts or fittings using a wrench or pliers. If tightening doesn’t stop the leak, it may require further repairs.

3. Use a Leak Detector

Electronic leak detectors can pinpoint hidden leaks by detecting water droplets or changes in moisture levels. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for accurate results.

4. Inspect Supply Lines

Check the flexible supply lines that connect your sink to the water supply. Look for any kinks, cracks, or signs of wear.

5. Test the Faucets

Run water through both hot and cold faucets and check for any unusual noises or leaks. If you hear a hissing sound, it could indicate a washer or O-ring problem.

6. Inspect the Drain

The drain is often overlooked, but it can also be a source of leaks. Inspect the drain stopper for any cracks or debris that may cause water to seep out. Additionally, check the drain pipe for any loose connections or damage.

Sign of a Leak	Possible Cause
Dripping water	Loose connection, worn washer, or cracked pipe
Moisture around pipes	Leaking joint, rusted pipe, or faulty fixture
Hissing sound when running water	Damaged O-ring or washer

Using a Basin Wrench for Tight Spaces

A basin wrench is a specialized tool designed for accessing and turning off water supply lines in tight spaces. It features a long, thin handle with a jaw that fits around the hexagonal nut that connects the water supply line to the faucet. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use a basin wrench in tight spaces:

Locate the Water Supply Lines: Identify and locate the hot and cold water supply lines under the sink.
Choose the Correct Wrench Size: Select a basin wrench with a jaw that fits snugly around the hexagonal nut on the water supply line.
Align the Wrench: Position the jaw of the wrench over the hexagonal nut, ensuring the jaws are fully engaged.
Apply Pressure: With one hand, hold the handle of the wrench and apply firm pressure to secure the wrench in place.
Turn Off the Water Supply: Slowly turn the handle of the wrench counterclockwise to tighten the hexagonal nut and shut off the water supply.
Check for Leaks: Once the water supply is turned off, inspect the connection point for any leaks or drips.
Tighten Fully: If necessary, continue tightening the hexagonal nut until it is sufficiently snug to prevent leaks, but avoid overtightening to prevent damage to the water supply lines.

Advantages of Using a Basin Wrench	Disadvantages of Using a Basin Wrench
Specialized tool for tight spaces Easy to maneuver in confined areas Jaw design provides secure grip	May require additional force in stubborn situations Limited size range, may not fit all nuts Can be expensive compared to other tools

Avoiding Overtightening

When tightening the packing nut, it’s crucial to avoid overtightening. Overtightening can damage the nut, the valve stem, and the sink itself. To prevent this, follow these steps:

Tighten the nut until it’s snug.
Use a wrench or pliers to turn the nut a quarter turn further.
Stop tightening and check for leaks.
If there’s still a leak, repeat steps 1-3.
Once the leak has stopped, tighten the nut a little bit more until it’s secure.
Do not overtighten!

If you’re not sure how tight to tighten the nut, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and tighten it less rather than more. You can always go back and tighten it more if necessary.

Here’s a table summarizing the steps for avoiding overtightening:

Step	Action
1	Tighten the nut until it’s snug.
2	Use a wrench or pliers to turn the nut a quarter turn further.
3	Stop tightening and check for leaks.
4	If there’s still a leak, repeat steps 1-3.
5	Once the leak has stopped, tighten the nut a little bit more until it’s secure.
6	Do not overtighten!

Restoring Water Flow

Once the water supply has been turned off, you can proceed with repairs or other tasks that require no water flow. When you are ready to restore water flow, follow these steps:

1. Locate the water supply valves under the sink and turn them clockwise to open them fully.
2. Open the faucet to allow air to escape from the pipes.
3. Check for leaks around the valves and faucet connections.
4. If any leaks are found, tighten the connections or call a plumber for assistance.
5. Once the water flow is restored, check all connections to ensure they are secure.
6. Run the water for a few minutes to flush out any debris or air pockets from the pipes.
7. Inspect the water pressure. If the pressure is low, there may be a problem with the water supply or the faucet aerator.
8. If the water flow is still not restored, check the water meter to ensure that the water supply is turned on.
9. If the water meter is not registering any water usage, you may have a problem with the water meter itself or the main water supply to your home. In this case, contact your local water utility company for assistance.

Locate the Shut-off Valves

Find the shut-off valves under the sink. There are usually two valves, one for hot water and one for cold water. The valves are typically located near the base of the faucet, directly below the sink. They are usually made of metal or plastic and have a handle or knob on top.

Turn Off the Valves

Turn the shut-off valves clockwise to close them. You may need to use pliers or a wrench to turn the valves if they are difficult to turn by hand. Be sure to close both the hot and cold water valves.

Check for Leaks

Turn on the faucet to make sure the water is completely off. If there is still water flowing, the valves may not be closed properly or there may be a leak in the pipes. Tighten the valves or call a plumber to fix the leak.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Leaking Shut-off Valves

If the shut-off valves are leaking, you may need to replace them. To do this, turn off the water supply to the sink and disconnect the old valves. Wrap the threads of the new valves with Teflon tape and screw them into place. Turn on the water supply and check for leaks.

Corroded Shut-off Valves

If the shut-off valves are corroded, you may need to replace them. To do this, turn off the water supply to the sink and disconnect the old valves. Use a hacksaw to cut the old valves off at the base. Clean the area where the new valves will be installed and solder the new valves in place. Turn on the water supply and check for leaks.

Frozen Shut-off Valves

If the shut-off valves are frozen, you can try to thaw them out using a hair dryer or a space heater. Be careful not to overheat the valves, as this could damage them. Once the valves are thawed, turn on the water supply and check for leaks.

How to Turn Water Off Under Sink

If you need to turn off the water under your sink, there are a few simple steps you can follow:

Locate the water shut-off valves. These are usually located under the sink, behind the hot and cold water pipes.
Turn off the water supply to the sink by turning the valves clockwise until they are hand-tight.
Check to make sure the water is off by turning on the faucet. If water comes out, then the valves are not closed all the way.