Vacation Checklist Item: Shut Off Main Water Valve

Recently, an insurance salesman returned home from a business trip to find his first floor and basement flooded with water. The trouble? His water line burst, spewing thousands of gallons of water unnoticed. It took months of work and two contractors to repair the damage. "If you're going to have a leaking supply line, it's going to happen while you're away," says Ray Connaughton, president of Allied Reddi Rooter. Even a minor leak can become a major disaster if no one is home to notice, especially in an area with laminate or hardwood flooring. Many times, hot water tanks or water lines fail in recently renovated living spaces. By closing the main valve, you are minimizing the risk of damage. Once the initial pressure in the lines is depleted, the leak may stop. "Instead of thousands, literally thousands, of gallons of water, you might have 50 gallons from the hot-water tank leak," Spaulding says. "There is no downside whatsoever (to turning off the main valve). It takes a few seconds and the peace of mind and potentially thousands of dollars in savings is worth it. Water You Waiting For? If you are not sure where your main water valve is located, give us a call,  or contact  us, and we'll cheerfully explain how to locate it. We're here 24 hours a day: 513-396-5300 We always come highly recommended and have earned an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau for our expert quality of service. We’re here to help Cincinnati homeowners with all their plumbing needs.