How to Turn Your Water Back On After It’s Been Shut Off

PDF download Download Article
Easy ways to switch on your main water, supply valves & more
PDF download Download Article

Whether your water has stopped unexpectedly or because of planned repairs, you probably want to get it back on again. In most cases, the water company can turn the water back on for you. If you want to turn the water on manually, however, you can either switch on the valves next to your appliances or use the main water shut-off valve. [1] Well water will require you to locate an electrical switch as well. We spoke with multiple plumbing experts to learn the best ways to turn your water back on, so read on to find out more!

Turning Your Water Back On

To switch on your main water valve, leave one faucet open and turn off all the rest. Find the main water valve outside your house and slowly turn the knob a quarter-turn at a time until the water is fully flowing. Pause between turns to let the water stream settle (or else you may risk bursting your pipes).

Section 1 of 5:

Switching on the Main Valve

PDF download Download Article
  1. Professional plumber James Schuelke says to leave 1 sink or faucet on to help equalize the pressure when you turn the water back on; any sink will work. [2] Make sure it’s turned on all the way and then turn every other faucet all the way off in and around your home. [3]
    • If possible, turn on the faucet that’s located at the highest point in your house. Some plumbers say this helps equalize the pressure better. [4]
    • Equalizing the water and air pressure helps prevent the initial, high-powered stream of water from damaging your pipes. [5]
  2. In most areas, Schuelke says you can find your main water valve located outside; it might be at “the front of the house, side of the house, back of the house,” or near the street. [6] The valve is usually housed in a grate in the ground. If you lift up the grate, you should see a hole with a pipe running through it and your home’s water meter. [7]
    • If you live in a colder climate , the water valve may be inside your home. Master plumber Dave Jones says, “If your home has a basement, you’ll likely find the main water shutoff valve on a basement wall facing the front of your house” or near your water heater. “On slab homes, the valve is often hidden from view inside a closet or wall access panel near the front of the house.” [8]
    • To open the water valve grate , simply reach down and pick it up. If this is hard to do, Jones says you may need to insert a “wrench or meter key” into the keyhole. Then, turn it and lift up the grate. [9]
    Advertisement
  3. You may notice a water meter or gauge with 1 or more turn handles on either side. These handles are the water shut-off valves. [10]
    • In newer homes , there may be 2 valves, with 1 on either side of the water meter. In this case, use the valve closest to your house, which is usually a gate (or wheel-shaped) valve. Simply turn this by hand.
    • In older homes , there is often just 1 valve, called a ball valve. It usually has a notched top that is perpendicular to the pipe. Jones says you typically need a meter/water key for “turning the water on and off.” Luckily, you can find these keys online and at most hardware stores. [11]
  4. Start by rotating the water valve counterclockwise (left) and making ¼ of a rotation. Pause for 20 seconds to listen for water filling the pipes. When the noise changes, turn the valve ¼ of the way again. Wait for the noise to change again and then fully open the valve. Opening the valve slowly allows the water to start running fully without the risk of damaging or bursting your pipes. [12]
    • If the valve is wheel-shaped , turn it with your hands or with a wrench.
    • If the valve is a ball valve with a notched top , use a water key. Hold the T-shaped side and place the other side on top of the notch. Then, turn it. Jones says, “When the valve’s handle is in line with the pipe, it’s open. When it’s perpendicular to the pipe, it’s closed.” [13]
    • If the valve won’t turn, don’t force it. Instead, call your water company or a plumber to help. Forcing the valve can cause a leak. [14]
    5. Advertisement
Section 2 of 5:

Turning Supply Valves On

PDF download Download Article
  1. Professional plumber David Balkan explains that almost “every plumbing fixture…like a sink, or toilet, slop sink in the basement, you name it…[has] their own dedicated valves.” [15] Most of these supply valves either look like a wheel or a lever. [16] Jones says the valve is attached to the pipe running out of the appliance, fixture, or device. [17]
    • The wheels are called gate valves while the levers are called ball valves.
    • Note : Some older houses may not have supply shut-off valves for specific appliances and sinks. In this case, you need to turn on the water at the main valve.
  2. If you’re dealing with a gate valve, it may take 2 to 4 full turns before you turn it on. If it is a ball valve, turn the lever so it is parallel with the pipe. [18]
    • You should be able to turn the valve with your hands, but if that is difficult, use a wrench to help you.
  3. If the valve won’t turn, call a plumber. Forcing the valve can cause the pipe to crack, burst, or leak. A plumber will be able to fix or replace the valve for you. [19]
    4. Advertisement
Section 3 of 5:

Turning Well Water Back On

PDF download Download Article
  1. Look for a pipe coming up and over your well’s water pump. It may have a ball valve (which looks like a lever). Turn this so that it is parallel with the pipe. [20]
    • If you have a wheel-shaped gate valve at the bottom of your water pump, do not turn this to the on position. Leave it closed.
  2. In most cases, the electrical power for the well pump will be shut off at the same time as the water itself. Your system may have 2 switches: one near the pump and one at the main electrical breaker. Check both to see if they have been switched off. [21]
  3. If you have 2 switches that are turned off, turn on the main electrical switch first. Then, turn on the switch next to the pump. Make sure that there is no standing water under or around you. If there is, do not touch the switch. Dry or mop up the water and make sure your hands are dry. Otherwise, you may be at risk of electrical shock. [22]
  4. It typically takes a few minutes for the pump to fill and for you to use the water. While the pump fills, you may hear water in the pipes. Simply turn on a sink to see if the water is working. The sink may sputter and spit for several minutes. [23]
    • If the water doesn't start running, call a plumber.
    5. Advertisement
Section 4 of 5:

Notifying the Water Company to Turn Your Water Back On

PDF download Download Article
  1. In most cases, let public works or the municipal water company turn your water on for you. Just contact your local water company by calling them or using their online assistance portal. [24]
    • This is especially the case if your water was disconnected by the water company for nonpayment or other reasons. Some cities consider it illegal to turn the water back on yourself. [25]
    • If your water is drawn from a well, you do not need to contact the water company.
  2. Contact the company about 2 weeks in advance of your move. If possible, ask them to turn the water on the day before you move in. You may need to provide basic identification, proof of residence (like your deed or rental lease), and a form of payment. [26]
    • Many water companies allow you to turn the water on using an online form. Some may ask you to visit in person.
  3. Schuelke agrees that if your water stopped unexpectedly, the water company may be able to tell you why. [27] Some common problems include: [28]
    • Unpaid bills. You may be asked to pay your water bill and extra late fees.
    • Neighborhood or city leak. You will have to wait until the leak is fixed.
    • A broken valve. They may send someone to inspect your valve or suggest that you hire a plumber. If the valve is broken, the city must fix it.
  4. The main valve and water meter are the property of your city. Schuelke recommends calling the water company to get permission to touch or handle the main valve. [29] If you are not allowed to touch the main valve, they will do it for you. [30]
    • You only need permission if you are turning on water for the entire house or property. Appliance supply valves can be turned on or off at your leisure.
    5. Advertisement
Section 5 of 5:

De-winterizing a House

PDF download Download Article
  1. If you winterized the house, you likely left all of the faucets open. Go through the building and turn all of these faucets off for any showers, sinks, or baths you have. [31]
    • Remove any aerators you put on your faucets, sinks, or tubs to prevent mineral build-up when the water starts.
  2. These are the valves underneath your fixtures and water devices, including your sinks, toilets, and water heater. Simply them counterclockwise. [32]
  3. Jones recommends checking every pipe in your home to make sure no breaks or cracks developed. If you notice any damage, call a plumber to have the pipes repaired. Just don’t forget to check your: [33]
    • Water heater
    • Sinks
    • Toilets
    • Showers and baths
    • Refrigerator
    • Washing machine
    • Hoses
  4. Once you have checked everywhere for leaks, locate the main shut-off valve, either outside or in your home. Turn it a quarter of the way counterclockwise and wait 20 seconds. Then, give it another quarter turn. [34]
    • Water valves are usually located near the street beneath a grate. If there are 2 valves, use the one closest to your house.
    • If you can't turn the valve by hand, use a wrench or a water key .
    • Do not turn the valve on all at once. This could flood your pipes and cause a leak.
  5. Quickly go back into your home to check all of your fixtures. Look for any water leaking from small cracks in the pipes that you may not have noticed before. If there are any leaks, call a plumber. [35]
  6. Let the faucet run for about 20 seconds before turning it off. Check for leaks around the pipes again. If there are no leaks, move on to the next faucet. [36]
    • If you notice a leak, call a plumber for repairs.
    7. Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    Can I turn my water back on myself?
    Dave Jones
    Master Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup
    Dave Jones is a Professional Plumber and the Midwest Regional Vice President at Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup. In 1992, Jones joined Roto-Rooter as a drain service technician at the age of 18. Since then, he has risen through the ranks into positions of increasing authority. Dave served as general manager of Roto-Rooter’s Charlotte, North Carolina, and Atlanta, Georgia branches before being promoted to Contractor Area Manager and later to Regional Vice President. Dave holds Master Plumber Licenses in Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Georgia.
    Dave Jones
    Master Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup
    Expert Answer
    If you're the one who shut it off in the first place, then yes. It's possible that you can turn the water back on even if you weren't, but it depends on the reason it was shut off in the first place. You may want to contact a plumber or your city's water department first.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 0 Helpful 3
  • Question
    Why can't I turn the valve by hand?
    Dave Jones
    Master Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup
    Dave Jones is a Professional Plumber and the Midwest Regional Vice President at Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup. In 1992, Jones joined Roto-Rooter as a drain service technician at the age of 18. Since then, he has risen through the ranks into positions of increasing authority. Dave served as general manager of Roto-Rooter’s Charlotte, North Carolina, and Atlanta, Georgia branches before being promoted to Contractor Area Manager and later to Regional Vice President. Dave holds Master Plumber Licenses in Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Georgia.
    Dave Jones
    Master Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup
    Expert Answer
    Some valves have a specific "key" you need to use to unlock the valve and turn it. There are also some valves that require a wrench. It really just depends on the type of valve you have.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 0 Helpful 3
  • Question
    Is my water valve inside or outside? I can't find it.
    Dave Jones
    Master Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup
    Dave Jones is a Professional Plumber and the Midwest Regional Vice President at Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup. In 1992, Jones joined Roto-Rooter as a drain service technician at the age of 18. Since then, he has risen through the ranks into positions of increasing authority. Dave served as general manager of Roto-Rooter’s Charlotte, North Carolina, and Atlanta, Georgia branches before being promoted to Contractor Area Manager and later to Regional Vice President. Dave holds Master Plumber Licenses in Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Georgia.
    Dave Jones
    Master Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup
    Expert Answer
    It depends on where you live. In most areas, the valve will be in the basement at the front of the house. It may be tucked behind an access panel. In some states, the valve is actually on the outside of the building near the front. It really depends on where you live, but those are the two main locations you'll normally find it.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 0 Helpful 3
See more answers
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Video

      Read Video Transcript

      Tips

      • If you have a hose or outside faucet that is close to the main shut-off valve outside, turn it on before the main valve. This helps you know if water is flowing after you turn on the main valve.
        Thanks
        Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
      • If the water meter starts fluctuating wildly once you turn the water on, it could indicate that there is a leak somewhere.
        Thanks
        Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Name
      Please provide your name and last initial
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
      Advertisement

      Warnings

      • If the city has stopped your water service for nonpayment or other violations, it is illegal for you to turn it back on yourself. [37]
        Thanks
        Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
      • Never force a valve to turn. This could cause the pipe or valve to break. Instead, call a plumber for assistance.
        Thanks
        Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
      • Do not touch electrical switches if you are wet or touching water. This may cause you to be shocked.
        Thanks
        Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
      Advertisement

      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Adjust a Pressure Switch
      8 Easy Ways to Repair a Leaky Pipe
      How to
      Detect Water Leaks in Walls
      How to
      Boil Water (& How Long It Takes)
      How to
      Chug Water Safely: Tips and Tricks
      How to
      Calculate and Measure Water Pump Horsepower
      How to
      Troubleshoot Low Water Pressure
      How to
      Raise the pH of Water
      How to
      Check Your Water Quality with or without a Kit
      How to
      Increase Water Pressure
      How to
      Prime a Water Pump
      How to
      Increase Well Water Pressure
      How to
      Fix Hard Water
      How to
      Use a Stovetop or Electric Tea Kettle to Boil Water
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ James Schuelke. Professional Plumber. Expert Interview. 1 October 2019.
      2. ↑ James Schuelke. Professional Plumber. Expert Interview. 1 October 2019.
      3. ↑ https://www.wsscwater.com/customer-service/residential-tips/locating-and-operating-your-main.html
      4. ↑ https://www.wsscwater.com/customer-service/report-problem/find-and-operate-your-main-water-valve
      5. ↑ https://westernwaterca.gov/392/How-to-Turn-Off-Your-Water
      6. ↑ James Schuelke. Professional Plumber. Expert Interview. 1 October 2019.
      7. ↑ https://www.familyhandyman.com/plumbing/valves/how-to-locate-your-gas-shutoff-valve-and-water-shutoff-valve/view-all/
      8. ↑ Dave Jones. Master Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup. Expert Interview. 29 March 2021.
      9. ↑ Dave Jones. Master Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup. Expert Interview. 29 March 2021.
      1. ↑ https://www.familyhandyman.com/plumbing/valves/how-to-locate-your-gas-shutoff-valve-and-water-shutoff-valve/view-all/
      2. ↑ Dave Jones. Master Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup. Expert Interview. 29 March 2021.
      3. ↑ https://www.wsscwater.com/customer-service/residential-tips/locating-and-operating-your-main.html
      4. ↑ Dave Jones. Master Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup. Expert Interview. 29 March 2021.
      5. ↑ https://www.tigard-or.gov/your-government/departments/public-works/water/instructions-for-turning-off-and-on-water
      6. ↑ David Balkan. Professional Plumber & CEO of Balkan Sewer & Water Main. Expert Interview. 23 February 2021.
      7. ↑ https://www.familyhandyman.com/plumbing/valves/how-to-locate-your-gas-shutoff-valve-and-water-shutoff-valve/view-all/
      8. ↑ Dave Jones. Master Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup. Expert Interview. 29 March 2021.
      9. ↑ https://www.familyhandyman.com/plumbing/valves/how-to-locate-your-gas-shutoff-valve-and-water-shutoff-valve/view-all/
      10. ↑ https://www.tigard-or.gov/your-government/departments/public-works/water/instructions-for-turning-off-and-on-water
      11. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jTJd1JcB52s&feature=youtu.be&t=103
      12. ↑ https://inspectapedia.com/water/Water_Pump_Electrical_Switch.php
      13. ↑ https://youtu.be/jTJd1JcB52s?si=lHOosNFTqP6n3WS9&t=159
      14. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jTJd1JcB52s&feature=youtu.be&t=169
      15. ↑ https://www.tigard-or.gov/your-government/departments/public-works/water/instructions-for-turning-off-and-on-water
      16. ↑ https://harriscountyfwsd61.org/meter-tampering/
      17. ↑ https://detroitmi.gov/departments/water-and-sewerage-department/dwsd-customer-service/how-do-i-turn-ontransferturn-water-service
      18. ↑ James Schuelke. Professional Plumber. Expert Interview. 1 October 2019.
      19. ↑ https://www.phila.gov/services/water-gas-utilities/water-shutoffs/reasons-for-water-shutoff/
      20. ↑ James Schuelke. Professional Plumber. Expert Interview. 1 October 2019.
      21. ↑ https://harriscountyfwsd61.org/meter-tampering/
      22. ↑ https://www.angi.com/articles/how-dewinterize-house.htm
      23. ↑ https://www.angi.com/articles/how-dewinterize-house.htm
      24. ↑ Dave Jones. Master Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup. Expert Interview. 29 March 2021.
      25. ↑ https://www.wsscwater.com/customer-service/residential-tips/locating-and-operating-your-main.html
      26. ↑ https://www.angi.com/articles/how-dewinterize-house.htm
      27. ↑ https://www.angi.com/articles/how-dewinterize-house.htm
      28. ↑ https://harriscountyfwsd61.org/meter-tampering/

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      Depending on where your water is shut off, there are a few different things you can do to get it running again. Sometimes it’s necessary to shut off a water supply valve for a specific plumbing fixture, like a sink, tub, or toilet. To turn the water to the appliance back on, look for a valve attached to a nearby pipe. It should look like a wheel or lever. If it’s a wheel-shaped valve, turn the wheel 2 to 4 turns counterclockwise to open it. For a lever, or ball valve, turn the valve so that it’s parallel to the pipe. If you can’t get the valve to turn at all, be careful not to force it. You may need to call a plumber for help so that you don’t accidentally damage the valve or pipe. If you think the water has been shut off at the main valve, start by turning off all the faucets in the building except for one. Leaving one faucet on will help equalize the pressure in the pipes. Next, find the main water supply valve, which is typically located outside near the street. You may need to lift up a grate to access it. To turn the main water valve, you’ll need a water key, which you can get at a hardware or home supply store. Use the key to turn the valve counterclockwise about ¼ turn at a time until the valve is completely open. Wait 20 seconds between each turn so you don’t flood your pipes too quickly and damage them. If you get well water instead of municipal water, look for a ball valve, which looks like a lever, attached to the pipe above the water pump. Open it by turning it so it’s parallel to the pipe. If you see a wheel-shaped valve at the bottom of the pump, leave it closed. Next, find the power switches for the pump. There may be one at the pump and another one at the main breaker for the building. Make sure both of them are switched on. Wait a few minutes for the pump to start working, then turn on a sink to make sure your water is flowing. If it’s not, you may need to call a plumber for help. To learn how to switch on the main water valve, read on!

      Did this summary help you?
      In other languages
      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 245,379 times.

      Reader Success Stories

      • Sharon Culb

        Sep 7, 2018

        "What a plethora of great information. Very helpful, I will be sure to use this again and again. Thanks!"
      Share your story
      If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission .

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement