Many homeowners wonder how long they should run the water afterward when shutting off the water supply for maintenance or repairs. This crucial step is essential to ensure the proper functioning of the plumbing system and avoid potential issues. After shutting off the water valves, whether it’s the main water valve or the shut-off valve under the sink, it is vital to turn the water on to allow water to flow for a minimum of a certain period. This process serves several purposes.
First, running the water after shut off helps to clear any remaining water in the system, preventing the water hammer—a sudden increase in pressure caused by the sudden stoppage of water flow. It helps to eliminate any air may have entered the pipes during the shut-off process, ensuring optimal water pressure and flow throughout the plumbing system. The duration we should run water after shut off depends on several factors. Shutting off appliances, including water heaters and ice makers, is imperative to avoid damage before shutting off the water. Run water for at least a few minutes after restoring it.
This allows any sediment or debris accumulated in the pipes to be flushed or drained, ensuring clean water and prevent clogging or damage to fixtures and faucets. With toilets, running the water for a longer period, like five minutes or more, before flushed. It is advised to ensure proper flushing and refill. Each fixture and system may have specific requirements, so it is vital to consider the manufacturer’s guidelines and your house’s plumbing setups.
In our guide, you can learn more about your home’s water supply after shut-off, especially for protecting your hot water system and water heater. By the end, you’ll see how ensuring proper water pressure can prevent water hammer damage, remove debris, and maintain the optimal functioning of clean cold water, your fixtures, and appliances in your home. (Learn How Much Does It Cost To Wire A 30×40 Shop)
What Happens When a Water Main Breaks?
When a main water valve breaks, it can cause considerable damage to the surrounding area.
Here are some things to happen:
Water Pressure and Flow
A water main break can cause a sudden drop in water pressure and flow. This is because the water is no longer being pushed through the pipes with the same force as before. As a result, you may notice your faucets and showerheads are not working as well as they used to.
Why Do Water Mains Break?
Water mains can break for various reasons. Some of the most common causes include:
- Age: Over time, water mains can become worn and corroded, weakening them, and making them more likely to break.
- Ground movement: If the ground shifts or settles, it can put pressure on the water mains and cause them to break.
- Temperature changes: Extreme temperature changes can cause the pipes to expand and contract, weakening them. Freezing with ice or cold air is a prime example.
- Human error: Sometimes, water mains break because of human error. If someone strikes a water main while digging, it can cause it to break and lead to flooding.
When to Shut Off Water
Before you start any plumbing work, it is important to turn off the water supply in every story of your home, from basements to upper floors.
Shutting off the water supply is also necessary during emergencies, like burst pipes or leaks.
This section will examine when and how to turn off water under sink, switch off water and how to do it properly.
Prior To Plumbing Work
If you are planning to do any plumbing work, like replacing a faucet or installing a new toilet, you will need to shut off the water supply to that specific area. If you are unsure which valve controls the water supply to that area, you can shut off one way of the main water supply to the house and replace it.
Locate the main shutoff valve near the water meter to shut off the primary water supply. Turn the valve clockwise to shut off the water supply. Contact a professional plumber if you cannot locate the main shutoff valve. (Learn How To Repair Water Damaged Particle Board Cabinets)
During Plumbing Work
Once you have shut off the water supply, open the faucet to release any remaining water in the pipes.
This will help prevent water from spilling out when you work on the plumbing. Keep the faucet open until you have completed the plumbing work and turned the water supply back on.
During Emergencies
In the event of a burst pipe or leak, shutting off the water supply is essential to prevent further damage.
If the leak is coming from a specific area, like a sink or toilet, shut off the water supply to that area. If you cannot locate the valve, shut off the main water supply to the house.
If you cannot shut off the water supply or the leak is severe, contact a professional plumber immediately. Do not fix the problem yourself, as it could lead to further damage or injury.
How to Shut Off Water
Knowing how to shut off water valves quickly and safely is important if you need to shut off the force of water in your house. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you locate and turn off the main water valve.
Locating the Shut-Off Valve
The shut-off valve usually lies close to the water meter, commonly situated outside near the street.
Look for a metal cover or box that’s flush with the ground. Once you find the cover, use a screwdriver or other tool to lift it, expose the meter, and shut-off valve.
Turning Off the Water Supply
You must locate the main shut-off valve to turn off the water supply. It’s usually near the water meter but can also be inside the house. Look for a valve that’s a gate valve or a ball valve.
A gate valve will have a round handle that turns, while a ball valve will have a lever you can turn 90 degrees. Once you’ve located the valve, turn it clockwise until completely closed. This will shut off the water supply to your house.
If you have an older gate valve, be gentle when turning it, as it can break if you’re too forceful. If the valve is stuck, leave it alone and call your plumber. (Learn How To Get Rid Of Standing Water On Concrete)
Tips for Shutting Off Water
Here are a few tips to remember when shutting off and cleaning the well water heater next to your house:
- If you’re shutting off the water because of a leak or other emergency, turn off the electricity to any appliances or electronics that water could damage.
- Open a faucet on the lowest point of your house (basement) to allow any remaining water in the pipes to drain out. Remove any aerators so cleaning can be done or dispose of filters and aerators to be replaced without costing a lot of money.
- If you wonder how long can you turn off water to toilet? Consider draining your pipes to prevent freezing and damage during cold weather.
- Ensure everyone in your household knows how to shut off the water in an emergency.
- Remove or clean any water filters or aerators in appliances or faucets. Replace inline water filters and replace ice maker filters in your fridge after flushing and before using the water again.
How to Flush Your Pipes After Your Water Has Been Restored
Suppose they have shut your water service off and recently restored it. In that case, it is essential to flush your pipes for at least 30 minutes to ensure your safety.
Water sitting stagnant in pipes may contain lead, copper, and other sediments unsafe for drinking and cooking. Flushing your pipes will turn water clean from faucets, and water use is safe to drink and for water heater efficiency.
To flush your pipes for water use, follow these steps:
- Start on the lowest level of your home (including basements) and turn on all the faucets. Include sinks and bathtubs, cold water at full pressure.
- Let the faucets run for 10 to 20 minutes, and ensure the water is clear when you shut them off.
- Flush all your toilets a few times while the faucets are running.
- After 20 minutes, turn off all the faucets and wait for an additional 10 minutes.
- Turn on all the hot water faucets including the bath and let them run for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until flushing ends.
- Finally, run your washing machine and dishwasher through a cycle to ensure any stagnant water in the lines is flushed.
It is important to note that the time you need to flush or replace your pipes may vary depending on the age and condition of your plumbing and the previous time your water has been shut off. Sometimes, pipes need flushing for longer than 30 minutes for effective water use later. (Read Refrigerator Water Line Frozen)
By following these steps, you can ensure your water is safe to drink and use after they have restored your water service.
