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DIY guideAppliance valves

Turn off the water to a leaking appliance

Switch the machine off, find its own valve and close it; never tip a washer or fridge alone.

  • 2 to 5 min
  • 5 steps
  • Every step animated
Turn off the water to a leaking appliance: the animation’s first picture

5 steps

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  1. Turn it off at its controls. Unplug it only if the plug and the floor around it are dry.

    Water near the plug? Leave it, and switch off its breaker from a dry spot.

  2. Dishwasher: under the kitchen sink. Washer: the two faucets behind it. Fridge: behind or under it. Water heater: the cold pipe on top.

    Never pull out or tip a washer or a fridge alone.

  3. Turn the handle clockwise until it stops, or turn a lever so it sits across the pipe. Hand-tight is enough.

    Don't use a wrench. Forcing an old valve can snap it.

  4. Soak up the water with towels, and check the leak has stopped.

  5. Valve stuck, or still leaking? Turn off the main water and ask Handyman for a plumber.

What you need

  • A flashlight
  • Towels

Call a pro if

  • The valve won't turn, or the leak keeps going after it's closed
  • Water is near the machine's plug or an outlet
  • The water heater's tank itself is leaking

Handyman says: Turn off the main. I'll find a plumber.

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