Every fixture in your home that has water going to should have an emergency shut off valve in the event of a leak or the need to replace the fixture.  Typically, each water closet (toilet), faucet, water heater, ice maker, bidet or any other water fixture will be equipped with one of these valves. There are multiple types of these valves, so the ones in your home may not look exactly as depicted.  In my ongoing crusade to promote home maintenance, these valves also need to be inspected annually.  To close the valve you should turn it to the right, and excessive force should not be required.

      After you have closed the valve, flush the toilet, turn on the faucet etc and you should not get any water.  If it is a toilet application the water closet will not refill.  If water is coming out of the fixture, or the toilet is refilling you need to contact your friendly neighborhood plumber and have these valves replaced immediately.   You should also inspect the valves themselves for moisture, or drips while they are closed.  Again time to replace them if water is present on the valves.  Lastly, re-open the valves, and re-inspect them for leaks or moisture. 

     Doing this simple process in your home can really save you a ton of money in the event of a water emergency.  The process also keeps the valves from freezing up.  As always, if you do need to change out your valves contact us at www.artplumbingandac.com   Have a great weekend all!