Step 1 · Shut Off Water Supply and Drain Pipes

The first and most critical step is to completely shut off the water supply to the area you are working on. Locate the main water shut-off valve for your home, which is typically found where the water service line enters the house, often in a basement, crawlspace, or utility closet. Turn the valve handle clockwise until it is fully closed. To drain the remaining water from the system, open a faucet at the lowest point in your house (like a basement sink or an outdoor spigot) and another faucet at the highest point (like a second-floor bathroom). This will relieve pressure and drain most of the water from the pipes, minimizing mess during the repair.