How to Shut Off Utilities in the Case of an Emergency

When disaster strikes, it is crucial to know how to shut off utilities quickly. Knowing how to shut off utilities in your house could save you from major damage and serious injury. The water, electricity, and gas have complex systems that make sure they get distributed to the right location. When an emergency strikes that requires you to shut off utilities, find the source immediately. Cut it off before it becomes a bigger problem. If an issue arises that needs to be fixed, contact New Generation Plumbing. We’ll help you find the source of the problem and remedy the situation. In the case of a water emergency, find a plumber that you trust before the water damage becomes costly and inconvenient. At New Generation Plumbing we offer emergency plumbing services in Pasadena for this specific type of situation.

Shutting Off the Water

When moving to a new home locate the water shutoff valve. Trying to locate it can be difficult, especially if you are trying to find it for the first time in an emergency situation. To avoid the added stress, prioritize being familiar with it ahead of time so you know exactly where to go. Those extra minutes could make all the difference. In warmer climates, the valve is usually located outside the house where the water enters. In colder climates, the valve is usually in the basement near the water heater. If the main shutoff valve is easily located and reachable, this would be the preferable method for cutting off water to your house. Once you locate the valve, all you need to do is turn the knob clockwise until it won’t turn anymore to successfully shut off the water.

Shutting Off the Electricity

Power lines can be extremely dangerous, especially if they are down from a natural disaster. Shutting off the electricity quickly is crucial in situations like this. It can be done easily as long as you know what to do. First, switch off all individual circuits in the electrical box. Second, turn off the main circuit. It is recommended that you follow each of these steps in the exact order for the safest outcome. It is also recommended that you practice these steps when you first move in and annually. This will make you familiar with the process. The practice will be well worth it in case of any emergency situations or gas leaks, which could be ignited by electricity.

Shutting off the Gas

One of the most important things you can do as a homeowner is to locate the gas shutoff valve by the gas meter of your house. Emergencies aren’t the only time that you may need to shut off your gas. If you smell gas or hear a gas leak, turn it off as quickly as possible. Even before calling the gas company. The gas shutoff valve does require a wrench, so be sure to keep one handy by the meter. Once you have located the meter with the shutoff valve, use the wrench to turn the valve so that it runs perpendicular to the pipe.

It is important to note that you can turn the valve in either direction. Just stop when it is perpendicular. Remember, parallel means the line is open and perpendicular means it’s closed. Gas can be ignited by fire or electricity. If the meter is dark, use a flashlight to see what you’re doing. If you are being evacuated from the threat of a fire, turning your gas off before you leave is of the utmost importance.