If you’ve ever come home to find that your water has been turned off, you know what a frustrating experience it can be. Whether it’s due to a power outage, a broken pipe, or simply a mistake, having no running water can make it difficult to do even the simplest tasks, such as cooking, cleaning, or using the bathroom. The good news is that turning your water back on is usually a relatively simple process that you can do yourself. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps on how to turn water back on in house, so you can get your water flowing again in no time.
Before you start, it’s important to identify the source of the problem. If the water is off in your entire house, it’s likely that the main water valve has been turned off. This valve is usually located near the street or in the basement. If the water is only off in certain fixtures, such as a sink or toilet, the problem is likely with the individual shut-off valve for that fixture. Once you’ve identified the source of the problem, you can follow the steps below to turn your water back on.
If the main water valve has been turned off, you’ll need to locate it and turn it back on. The main water valve is usually a large, round valve that is located near the street or in the basement. Once you’ve found the main water valve, simply turn it clockwise to open it. You should hear the water start to flow again within a few seconds. If you don’t hear the water flowing, check to make sure that the valve is fully open. If the valve is open and you still don’t hear the water flowing, there may be a problem with the water supply line. In this case, you’ll need to call a plumber to have the problem fixed.
Locate the Main Water Valve
The main water valve in your house is typically located in one of the following places:
**Inside the house:**
- Basement
- Laundry room
- Utility closet
- Under the kitchen sink
**Outside the house:**
- In a box or valve pit in the front yard
- On the side of the house near the foundation
- In a meter box near the street
If you can’t find the main water valve, check with your local water utility or a licensed plumber.
Once you’ve found the main water valve, check to see if it’s turned off. The valve will be closed if the handle is perpendicular to the pipe. To turn it on, simply turn the handle parallel to the pipe.
If you’re still having trouble turning on the water, there may be a problem with the valve itself or with the water supply to your house. In this case, you should contact a licensed plumber for assistance.
| Location | Description |
|---|---|
| Basement | The main water valve is often located in the basement, near the water heater or furnace. |
| Laundry room | The main water valve may also be located in the laundry room, near the washer and dryer. |
| Utility closet | The main water valve is sometimes located in a utility closet, which may be in the basement, garage, or another part of the house. |
| Under the kitchen sink | In some cases, the main water valve may be located under the kitchen sink. |
Check Individual Fixtures
If the water is off in only one fixture, such as a sink or toilet, the problem is likely isolated to that specific fixture. Here’s how to check and rectify the issue:
1. Check the aerator: The aerator is a small attachment located at the end of the faucet that helps mix air and water to create a more gentle flow. Over time, the aerator can become clogged with debris, which can restrict water flow. To clean the aerator, simply remove it from the faucet and soak it in a vinegar solution for a few hours. Then, rinse the aerator thoroughly and reattach it to the faucet.
2. Check the supply lines: The supply lines are the flexible tubes that connect the faucet to the water supply. Over time, supply lines can become crimped or kinked, which can reduce water flow. To check the supply lines, turn off the water supply to the fixture and then disconnect the supply lines from the faucet. Inspect the supply lines for any damage or blockages. If you find any damage, replace the supply lines.
3. Check the valve: The valve is a small device that controls the flow of water to the fixture. Over time, the valve can become clogged with debris or mineral deposits, which can restrict water flow. To clean the valve, simply remove it from the fixture and soak it in a vinegar solution for a few hours. Then, rinse the valve thoroughly and reattach it to the fixture.
4. Check the cartridge: The cartridge is a small device that mixes hot and cold water to create the desired water temperature. Over time, the cartridge can become worn or damaged, which can restrict water flow. To replace the cartridge, simply remove it from the faucet and install a new one.
Inspect the Water Meter
If your home has experienced a water outage, the first step is to inspect your water meter. This is typically located in the basement, garage, or near the front of the house.
Follow these steps:
1. Locate the Water Meter
The water meter is usually a round or square metal box with a dial or digital display. It may be covered by a lid or have a plastic cover over the dial.
2. Check the Display
If the meter has a dial, check if the needle is moving. If the meter has a digital display, check if it is displaying a flow rate. If either of these are not happening, it indicates that the water is still not flowing.
3. Check the Shut-Off Valve
Next, locate the shut-off valve on the water meter. This is usually a handle or lever that is perpendicular to the water line. Turn the valve counterclockwise to open it. If the valve is already open, you may need to turn it slightly clockwise to close it and then reopen it. This can help dislodge any debris or rust that may be blocking the water flow.
4. Listen for Water Flow
After opening the shut-off valve, listen for water flowing through the pipes. You may hear a gurgling sound or feel water flowing from a nearby faucet. If you do not hear or feel water flowing, there may still be an obstruction in the line or the water may not have been turned back on at the main.
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Meter needle not moving | Valve closed or debris blocking flow |
| Digital display not showing flow | Valve closed or electrical issue |
| No water flowing after opening valve | Obstruction in line or main not turned back on |
Identify and Fix Leaks
Visual Inspection
Start by checking all visible pipes, fixtures, and appliances for signs of leaks or drips. Pay attention to areas under sinks, around toilets, and behind washing machines.
Faucet and Valve Repair
If you find a leaky faucet, try tightening the packing nut or replacing the washer. For leaking valves, check if they are fully closed or need to be replaced.
Toilet Repairs
Toilet leaks can be caused by a faulty flapper valve or a worn-out fill valve. Replace these components as needed to stop the water from running.
Advanced Leak Detection
For leaks that are not easily identifiable, consider using a water leak detector. These devices can detect hidden leaks by monitoring changes in water pressure or flow. Here is a summary of advanced leak detection methods:
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Acoustic Leak Detection | Uses sound sensors to locate leaks based on the sound of water escaping. |
| Ultrasonic Leak Detection | Emits high-frequency sound waves that bounce off leaks, creating an audible signal. |
| Thermal Imaging | Uses a thermal camera to detect temperature changes caused by leaking water, allowing for precise leak localization. |
| Tracer Dye Testing | Adds a non-toxic dye to the water supply and uses a UV light to trace the dye to the leak source. |
Contact a Plumber
If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps above and still can’t get your water back on, it’s time to call a plumber. A qualified plumber will be able to quickly diagnose the problem and get your water flowing again. Here are some tips for finding a good plumber:
• Get recommendations from friends or family.
• Check online reviews.
• Make sure the plumber is licensed and insured.
• Get a written estimate before any work is done.
Things to tell the plumber:
When you call the plumber, be sure to tell them the following information:
• The location of the shut-off valve you closed.
• The type of plumbing fixture that is not working.
• Any other symptoms you are experiencing, such as a leaking pipe or a strange noise.
The plumber will likely ask you some additional questions over the phone. By providing the plumber with as much information as possible, you can help them diagnose the problem and get your water back on quickly.
| Common Problems | Solutions |
|---|---|
| Clogged or frozen pipes | Locate the clog and thaw or clear the pipe |
| Leaking pipes | Repair or replace the leaking pipe |
| Broken water heater | Replace the water heater |
| Faulty water pressure regulator | Replace the water pressure regulator |
| Damaged water meter | Contact your local water utility to repair or replace the water meter |
Thaw Frozen Pipes (if applicable)
If your pipes have frozen, you’ll need to thaw them before you can turn the water back on. To do this, you can:
- Use a hair dryer to blow hot air on the frozen pipe.
- Use a heat gun to thaw the frozen pipe.
- Wrap the frozen pipe with a warm towel and pour hot water over it.
- Use a space heater to warm the room where the frozen pipe is located.
- Call a plumber to thaw the frozen pipe.
Once the frozen pipe has thawed, you can turn the water back on.
6. Turn the Water Back On
- Check for power: Ensure the well pump is receiving electricity.
- Test the pressure gauge: Connect a pressure gauge to the tank’s Schrader valve. It should read between 30-50 psi when the pump is off.
- Inspect the air bladder or diaphragm: Turn off the pump and drain the tank. Check for signs of wear, holes, or cracks on the rubber component.
- Adjust the air pressure: With the tank empty, use a bicycle pump to add air to the bladder until the pressure gauge reaches the desired range (typically 2 psi below the pump’s cut-in pressure).
- Inspect the tank base: Ensure the tank is securely fastened to its base to prevent vibrations and noise.
- Check the pressure switch: This switch tells the pump to turn on and off based on water pressure. Replace it if it’s malfunctioning.
- Inspect the pump: If the tank and pressure switch are okay, the problem may be with the well pump. Contact a qualified professional for further investigation.
- Empty the tank: Drain the water from the tank using the valve at the bottom to remove any sediment or debris.
- Test the system: Turn on the well pump and observe if the water pressure returns. Check the pressure gauge to ensure it’s within the desired range.
- Inspect for leaks: Check the tank, pump, and all connections for leaks that could cause pressure loss.
- Locate the main water valve: This is usually located near the front of your house, either in a utility room, basement, or crawl space.
- Turn the valve clockwise: Use a wrench or pliers to turn the valve clockwise until it stops. This will turn the water back on.
- Check for leaks: Open a faucet and check for any leaks. If you find any, tighten the nuts or call a plumber.
- If you don’t have a main water valve, you’ll need to contact your local water utility company.
- If you’re turning your water back on after a burst pipe, make sure to check the pipe for any damage before turning the water on.
- If you’re not comfortable turning your water back on yourself, call a plumber.
Purge Air from the System
Once the water supply is restored, it’s crucial to purge air from the system to ensure proper water flow. Follow these seven steps to eliminate trapped air:
1. Open the Highest Fixture
Start by turning on the highest fixture in the house, typically the shower upstairs or a faucet on the top floor.
2. Run Water
Let the water run for several minutes until it flows smoothly without sputtering or gurgling sounds.
3. Move to Lower Fixtures
Once the air is purged from the highest point, move to lower fixtures, such as the bathroom sink, kitchen faucet, and bathtub, and open them one at a time.
4. Run Water Again
Run the water at each fixture for several minutes, allowing air to escape and ensure a steady flow.
5. Check for Air
Inspect the faucets and showerheads for any remaining air bubbles. If you notice sputtering or gurgling, repeat steps 2-4 until the air is eliminated.
6. Turn Off Fixtures
Once the system is purged of air, close all faucets and fixtures to prevent water from flowing unnecessarily.
7. Check Water Flow
After several hours, rerun the water at various fixtures to ensure a consistent and adequate flow. If any issues persist, contact a licensed plumber for further assistance.
| Tip |
|---|
| If you have difficulty purging air from a fixture, try tapping lightly on the pipes with a hammer or wrench to help dislodge any trapped air. |
| Avoid running the water excessively, as this can waste a significant amount of water. |
Reset the Circuit Breaker
The circuit breaker for your water heater is located in your home’s electrical panel. It is usually a black or white switch with the word “water heater” or “WH” written on it. If the circuit breaker has tripped, it will be in the “off” position. To reset it, simply flip the switch to the “on” position.
Steps to Reset the Circuit Breaker
1. Open your home’s electrical panel. The electrical panel is usually located in the basement, garage, or utility room.
2. Find the circuit breaker for your water heater. It will be a black or white switch with the word “water heater” or “WH” written on it.
3. If the circuit breaker has tripped, it will be in the “off” position. To reset it, simply flip the switch to the “on” position.
4. Close the electrical panel door.
If you are unable to reset the circuit breaker, there may be a problem with your water heater or the electrical wiring. In this case, you should call a qualified electrician for assistance.
Additional Tips:
If your circuit breaker trips frequently, it may be a sign of an electrical problem. You should call an electrician to inspect the wiring and make any necessary repairs.
Some water heaters have a reset button located on the unit itself. If your water heater has a reset button, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for resetting it.
Model |
Reset Location |
|---|---|
| Gas Water Heater | Front or side of the unit |
| Electric Water Heater | Top or bottom of the unit |
Check for Obstructions in the Water Line
1. Locate the main water supply valve
This valve is usually located near the water meter or in the basement. It is often a large, round valve with a handle.
2. Turn off the water supply
Turn the handle of the main water supply valve clockwise to turn off the water.
3. Locate the shut-off valves for individual fixtures
These valves are usually located behind the fixture, such as under the sink or behind the toilet.
4. Turn off the shut-off valves
Turn the handles of the shut-off valves clockwise to turn off the water to the individual fixtures.
5. Check the faucet aerators
Remove the faucet aerators and check for any debris that may be blocking the water flow. Clean the aerators with a toothbrush or a soft cloth.
6. Check the hose bibs
Remove the hoses from the hose bibs and check for any debris that may be blocking the water flow. Clean the hose bibs with a toothbrush or a soft cloth.
7. Check the water meter
Look at the water meter to see if it is running. If the meter is running, there may be a leak somewhere in the system.
8. Inspect the pipes
Visually inspect the pipes for any leaks or damage. Look for any wet spots or discolored areas on the pipes.
9. Contact a plumber
If you are unable to find and clear the obstruction, contact a plumber. A plumber will be able to locate and clear the obstruction quickly and efficiently.
| Obstruction | Solution |
|---|---|
| Sediment | Flush the system by opening all faucets and letting the water run for several minutes. |
| Tree roots | Contact a plumber to have the roots removed. |
| Frozen pipes | Thaw the pipes with a heat gun or by wrapping them with heat tape. |
Examine the Well Pressure Tank (for homes with wells)
This cylindrical tank, usually found near the well pump, houses an air bladder or diaphragm that maintains water pressure. Here’s a detailed troubleshooting process:
How to Turn Water Back On in House
Having your water turned off can be a major inconvenience. Whether it’s due to a burst pipe, a water main break, or planned maintenance, knowing how to turn your water back on is essential.
Here are the steps to follow:
Tips:
People Also Ask About How to Turn Water Back On in House
What should I do if my water is turned off due to a burst pipe?
If your water is turned off due to a burst pipe, first check the pipe for any damage. If you find any damage, you’ll need to contact a plumber. Once the pipe has been repaired, you can turn your water back on by following the steps above.
What should I do if my water is turned off due to a water main break?
If your water is turned off due to a water main break, you’ll need to contact your local water utility company. They will be able to tell you when your water will be turned back on.
What should I do if I don’t have a main water valve?
If you don’t have a main water valve, you’ll need to contact your local water utility company. They will be able to help you turn your water back on.
