how to turn on water outside

2 min read 31-01-2025

Turning on your outside water supply may seem simple, but the exact method depends on your home's plumbing setup. This guide covers the most common scenarios, helping you get your sprinklers, hoses, and outdoor faucets working again. Knowing how to do this is crucial for spring gardening and summer enjoyment.

Locating Your Outside Water Shut-Off Valve

Before you even think about turning on the water, you need to find the shut-off valve. This valve controls the flow of water to your outdoor faucets and irrigation system.

Common Locations:

Near the Meter: Many homes have the main shut-off valve located near the water meter, usually underground in a small access box. This is the main valve for your entire house.
Inside the House: Some homes have an interior shut-off valve specifically for the outside water lines. Check near the basement or utility room.
Outside: Occasionally, the valve will be located outside, near where the water line enters your house. It might be concealed within landscaping.
In the Garage: Less common, but some houses have it located in the garage.

Tip: If you can't find it, consult your home's plumbing diagram or contact a plumber.

Turning on the Outside Water Valve

Once you've located the valve, turning it on is usually straightforward:

Identify the Valve Handle: The handle might be a wheel, a lever, or a gate valve.
Turn the Handle: For wheel valves, turn clockwise to open. For lever valves, move the lever to the perpendicular position. For gate valves, turn the handle 90 degrees.
Check for Leaks: After turning the valve, carefully inspect the valve and surrounding area for any leaks.

Important Note: If the valve is extremely stiff or difficult to turn, don't force it. A stuck valve could indicate a problem that needs professional attention. Forcing it could cause damage to the valve or pipes.

What if I Don't Have a Separate Outside Shut-off Valve?

In some older homes or simpler setups, there might not be a dedicated outside shut-off valve. In such cases, you might need to:

Turn on the main water supply: This is typically located near the water meter (refer to the above steps for main water shut-off valve location).
Check your outdoor faucets and irrigation system: Make sure there are no blockages or frozen pipes causing issues.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Water is still off: Double-check the location and operation of all shut-off valves. Ensure the main water supply is also on.
Leaking valve: If you discover a leak, try tightening the packing nut (if accessible) on the valve. Persistent leaks warrant a call to a plumber.
Frozen pipes: In colder climates, frozen pipes can prevent water from reaching your outdoor faucets. This requires thawing the pipes before turning the water back on.
Broken valve: If the valve is damaged or broken, replacing it will be necessary.

Maintaining Your Outside Water System

Regular maintenance prevents problems:

Inspect valves: Check the valves for leaks, damage, and proper functionality.
Drain lines: In freezing climates, drain outdoor water lines in the fall to prevent freezing and damage.
Winterize: Prepare your system for winter by following proper winterization procedures to protect it against freezing.

Turning on your outside water is usually a simple process, but finding the right valve is key. Remember to check for leaks and maintain your outdoor plumbing system to ensure everything works smoothly throughout the year. If you encounter any significant issues, don't hesitate to contact a qualified plumber.