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Shut Off Water Supply and Drain Line — Check Your Main Water Valve

Beginner3 hours

Part of project

How to Increase Water Pressure in Your House · Step 1 of 3

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In this video

Locate the main water shut-off valve for your home, which is often found in a utility closet, basement, or garage near the water meter. Turn the valve handle completely to shut off the water supply. Then, go back to the outdoor faucet and open it to allow any remaining water in the pipe to drain out completely.

Goal: Prepare for Repair

  • Failing to shut off the water will result in uncontrolled water flow when you disassemble the faucet.

Used in this video

  • Main Water Shut-off ValveShutting off the water supply to the entire house.
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FAQs

What specific tools, beyond a multi-screwdriver and pliers, might I need for this water pressure project?

You might also need an adjustable wrench for the PRV or stubborn aerators, and a bucket to catch any water during disassembly. Having a small brush or a de-scaling agent can be very helpful for thoroughly cleaning mineral deposits from aerators.

Are there any crucial safety precautions I should take before starting to work on my home's water pressure?

Always shut off the main water supply to your house before attempting to adjust or replace the PRV or clean aerators. This prevents accidental flooding or leaks. Also, wear gloves to protect your hands from grime and potential sharp edges.

How much should I expect to spend if I need to replace parts like a Pressure Reducing Valve or multiple aerators?

A new Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV) can cost $50 to $200 for the part itself, depending on the model and features. Individual faucet or showerhead aerators are much more affordable, typically ranging from $5 to $15 each. Factor these potential costs if simple cleaning or adjustments don't resolve the issue.

I've checked the main water valve and cleaned my aerators, but my water pressure is still low. What should I troubleshoot next?

If the main valve is fully open and aerators are clean, the Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV) is the next most likely culprit. Locate the PRV and try adjusting its screw clockwise to increase pressure. If adjustment doesn't help, or if the valve appears damaged, it likely needs replacement.

Transcript
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Does it stay leaking when it's off? Well, be sure to like this video because I'm going to show you without any pills or natural remedies, how to correct the situation, find your main valve A and turn it all the way off and drain out the water.

Auto-generated transcript. May contain errors.