Shutting off the water supply to your home in Worcester is an important skill to have, especially in emergencies such as leaks or pipe bursts. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you locate and operate the shut-off valve:

1. Locate the Main Water Shut-Off Valve

The main water shut-off valve is typically found near where the water line enters your home. Here are common locations:

• Basement: If you have a basement, the valve is often located near the front foundation wall.
• Crawl Space: In homes without basements, the valve may be found in the crawl space.
• Outside: Some homes have an exterior shut-off valve, typically near the foundation or in a utility box.
• Under Sink: In some cases, you might find it under the kitchen sink or in a utility room.

2. Identify the Type of Valve

There are typically two types of valves:

• Gate Valve: This valve has a round wheel that you turn clockwise to close and counterclockwise to open.
• Ball Valve: This valve has a lever handle. To shut it off, turn the lever 90 degrees so that it is perpendicular to the pipe.

3. Shut Off the Water Supply

Now that you have located and identified the valve, follow these steps:

1. Turn the valve clockwise (for gate valves) or rotate the lever to a closed position (for ball valves).
2. Ensure the valve is fully closed by turning it until it stops.

4. Check for Water Flow

To confirm that the water supply is off, turn on a faucet in your home. If no water flows, you have successfully shut off the supply.

5. Additional Tips

• Consider marking the valve location for future reference.
• Test the valve periodically to ensure it operates smoothly.
• If you're unable to locate the valve, you may contact Worcester's Department of Public Works for assistance.

Emergency Situations

In case of a significant leak or flooding, you may also need to contact a plumber or the local emergency services. The Worcester Department of Public Works can be reached at their official website for further assistance.

References

• Worcester Department of Public Works
• Home Depot Guide on Water Main Valve

By following these steps, you can efficiently shut off your water supply in Worcester whenever necessary.