Shutting Off the Water in a Beaumont Home

The meter box

Most homes have a valve at or near the meter box by the street. A meter key or long-handled wrench may be needed to reach it.

At the house

Many homes also have a valve where the line rises out of the ground or enters the garage. Use this one first if you have it; it's easier to reach.

Open or closed

A lever handle is closed when it's across the pipe. A round handle turns clockwise to close.

Test it

Close the valve, open a faucet and wait. If water keeps flowing, the valve isn't sealing and should be replaced.

Individual shut-offs

Toilets, sinks, the washer and the water heater should each have their own valve, so you can stop one leak without shutting off the whole house.

If it's stuck

Don't force an old valve. Ask a plumber to replace it. If water is already running, see emergency plumbing.

Show the household

Once you've found the main, show everyone in the house where it is. Keep the meter key near the door so anyone can reach the valve quickly, whether you're home or not.

Before you travel

If you'll be away for more than a few days, especially in hurricane season, consider closing the main and turning the water heater to vacation or off. A small leak with nobody home can do a lot of damage before anyone notices.

Mark it

Paint the valve handle a bright color or tie a tag to it, so it's easy to spot in a dark garage during a storm.

More plumbing guides

• A Hurricane Season Plumbing Checklist for Beaumont
• After a Flood: What to Check in Your Plumbing
• Why Drains Back Up in Heavy Rain
• Is Your Water Heater Safe After High Water?
• Hiring a Licensed Plumber in Texas