Water damage can devastate a business. It can lead to expensive repairs, lost inventory, and disruptions to daily operations. One of the most effective ways to minimize water damage is to know when and how to shut off your water supply. In this blog, we’ll discuss the importance of shutting off your water and provide a step-by-step guide to doing it correctly. Being prepared is half the battle!

Why You Should Shut Off Your Water Supply

Shutting off your water supply is crucial in several scenarios that we will highlight:

1. Preventing Major Damage from Leaks or Burst Pipes: When you notice a leak or a burst pipe, an immediate response is imperative. Water can quickly accumulate, leading to significant structural damage, mold damage, and contamination of inventory. Shutting off the water swiftly can help minimize these risks.

2. Before a Storm or Extreme Weather: If your area is facing severe weather, such as heavy rainfall or flooding, be proactive and shut off the water ahead of time. This precaution can help prevent water from entering your premises through plumbing fixtures.

3. Regular Maintenance Checks: As part of regular maintenance, consider shutting off your water supply to inspect your plumbing system. This proactive approach allows you to identify potential issues before they escalate into major problems. You can also join NDS PRIME™ to ensure your business is prepared for emergencies and natural disasters, helping you to minimize lost time and revenue. Gain peace of mind with a program designed to reduce financial disruptions in the event of property damage or loss.

How to Shut Off Your Water Supply

We'll walk you through the necessary steps to ensure you can confidently turn off your water supply whenever the situation calls for it. Let’s get into it!

1. Locate the Main Water Shut-Off Valve: The first step is to find your main water shut-off valve. It is typically located near where the water line enters your business, often in the basement, crawl space, or near the water meter. In some cases, OR it might be in a utility closet or outside the building. Determining where the shut-off valve is before you actually need it could be the difference between an inconvenience and a disaster.

2. Understand the Type of Valve: There are two common types of shut-off valves, you will encounter, the Ball Valves and the Gate Valves.:

• Ball Valves: These have a lever handle that turns a quarter turn to shut off the water. When the handle is perpendicular to the pipe, the water is off.

• Gate Valves: These have a round wheel handle that needs to be turned several times to shut off the water. When fully turned clockwise, the water is off.

3. Shut Off the Valve: Once you locate the valve, turn it off. For ball valves, simply turn the handle 90 degrees; for gate valves, turn the wheel clockwise until it stops. Ensure you check for any remaining water flow to confirm that the valve is fully closed. You can verify that the water supply is off by turning on a faucet to check for any water flow.

4. Drain the System: After shutting off the water, open the faucets in your business to drain any remaining water in the pipes. This step is especially important if you anticipate freezing temperatures or need to conduct maintenance. Get ahead of it!

5. Notify Your Staff: Make sure your employees are aware that the water supply has been shut off and inform them of any necessary procedures, such as using alternative facilities or equipment during the downtime.

When to Call a Professional

If you are unsure about shutting off your water or if you encounter significant leaks or plumbing issues, it’s essential to contact a professional plumber or water damage restoration service. They can assess the situation and provide the necessary repairs to prevent further damage to your business.

Knowing when and how to shut off your water supply is a critical skill for any business owner. It enables you to take immediate action in the face of potential water damage, protecting your property and your bottom line. Regularly check your plumbing system, be proactive during severe weather, and don’t hesitate to call in professionals when needed. By staying prepared, you can minimize the risks of water damage and ensure your business remains resilient in challenging situations.

NDS - Your Trusted Recovery Partner

When faced with the aftermath of a burst pipe, our certified property restoration experts are here to provide prompt and effective solutions for plumbing-related damage while helping you prevent future issues. Count on us for reliable service to restore your business's safety and functionality. Contact us for immediate assistance!