To open or close a water valve, first locate the valve. Most residential valves are found beneath sinks, near water meters, or behind appliances. To close the valve, rotate it counterclockwise (left) with a wrench or hand. For emergencies, shut off the main supply by closing the valve farthest from the source. To reopen, rotate clockwise (right) until water flows. Always test the valve’s operation periodically.

The steps are critical to prevent water damage and ensure safe utility management. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), 95% of pipe bursts occur due to unattended leaks, which proper valve maintenance can mitigate. The American Water Works Association (AWWA) reports that 15% of U.S. homes face plumbing failures annually, often linked to neglected shut-off mechanisms. Regular valve checks reduce repair costs by up to 30%, as noted by the National Association of Home Inspectors (NAHI). Additionally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasizes that emergency shut-off procedures save an average of 2.5 hours per household during crises, minimizing property damage. These data underscore the importance of knowing valve operations for both routine maintenance and disaster preparedness.