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Shut Off Water Supply — Turn Off the Water Supply

Beginner4 hours

Part of project

Tub Faucet & Shower Valve Replacement: A Complete DIY Guide · Step 1 of 6

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In this video

Before starting disassembly, locate the main water shut-off valve for the house or the specific shut-off for the bathroom and turn it to the off position. Once the water is off, turn the shower handle to the 'on' position to drain any residual water from the pipes and relieve pressure.

Goal: Prevent water flow

  • Failing to shut off the water supply before disassembly will result in uncontrolled water flow and potential flooding.
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FAQs

What should I do if I can't find or turn off the main water supply to my house or apartment?

Locating and shutting off the main water supply is the most critical first step. If you can't find it, check your water heater for a shut-off valve, or contact your building manager or a professional plumber. Do not proceed with the project until the water supply is completely off to avoid significant water damage.

Besides the screwdriver and adjustable wrench, are there any other essential supplies or tools I might need for this tub faucet replacement?

Yes, it's highly recommended to have plumber's tape (Teflon tape) for sealing threads, penetrating oil for loosening stuck or corroded old parts, and a small wire brush for cleaning debris. You might also find a basin wrench helpful for reaching nuts in tight spaces behind the tub wall.

I've replaced everything and turned the water back on, but the faucet is still leaking. What should I check first?

First, re-check that the new valve stems are fully seated and securely tightened, but not overtightened. Ensure all O-rings are correctly positioned and intact, as a misplaced or damaged O-ring is a common cause of leaks. Also, verify that the connections to the water supply lines are tight and sealed with plumber's tape.

Is 4 hours a realistic estimate for a complete beginner, or should I budget more time, especially if I encounter stuck parts?

While 4 hours is a good estimate for someone with some DIY experience and no major issues, a complete beginner should budget more, perhaps 6-8 hours. Encountering corroded or stuck parts, or making unexpected trips to the hardware store for forgotten items, can significantly extend the project time.

Transcript
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so first step will be to shut off the water to this alright so we shut up the water because we don't want to get drenched right so we're going to turn this on make sure all the water is out of here so we don't get a little partial

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