Where is shut off valve for outside faucet?

The shut off valve for an outside faucet, also known as a hose bibb or hose faucet, is typically located inside the house. There are a few common places to check when trying to locate the shut off valve:

Check Near the Water Meter

One of the most common places to find the shut off valve for outside faucets is near the main water meter for the house. The water meter is usually located in the basement, crawl space, or a utility room. Trace the water lines from the meter to see if any go outside towards hose bibbs. The valve will likely be installed on the line leading outdoors.

Look For It Near Where the Water Line Exits the House

Follow the path of the water line as it leads from the water meter to the outside of the house. In some homes, the water line travels through the foundation or basement wall to reach the exterior hose bibb. You may find a shut off valve installed close to where the pipe exits the house.

Check by Exterior Faucet Locations

If you have access to the water lines in your basement or crawlspace, check where the pipe travels up towards any exterior faucet location. There may be a dedicated shut off valve installed where the water line branches off vertically to reach the outdoor spigot.

Look Near the Main Water Shutoff Valve

In many homes, all the water lines are centralized near the main water shut off valve. If you locate this primary valve (often near the water meter), check the nearby branching pipes for any labeled for outside faucets. The dedicated shut off may be installed close by.

Check Faucet Boxes on Exterior Walls

Some homes have small accessibility boxes installed on exterior walls surrounding each outdoor faucet. Remove the cover plate and check inside the box – you may find a shut off valve inside.

Consider Hiring a Plumber

If you cannot locate the shut off valve for your hose bibbs, it may be necessary to hire a professional plumber to find it for you. A licensed plumber will be able to trace the water lines and identify the shutoff that controls the outdoor spigot.

Tips for Locating the Shut Off Valve

Here are some additional tips to help locate the outdoor faucet shut off valve:

• Check valve tags or labels on water lines for any markings indicating “hose bibb” or “exterior.”
• Look for a ball valve or gate valve on vertical pipe runs to outside faucets.
• Shut off all other water valves and turn on the hose bibb – follow the sound of running water back to the open valve.
• Review any home plumbing diagrams or blueprints that show water line layouts.
• Ask the previous homeowners if they know the valve location.

Why You Need an Outdoor Faucet Shut Off Valve

Having an accessible shut off valve for outdoor faucets is very important for several reasons:

• Emergency water shut off – If a hose bibb breaks or leaks, you can quickly shut off water to prevent flooding and water damage.
• Seasonal shut off – Shutting off and draining outdoor faucets for the winter helps prevent freezing and pipe bursts in cold climates.
• Maintenance and repairs – Shutting off the water allows you to safely maintain, repair, or replace exterior faucets.
• Water conservation – The valve allows you to shut off outdoor water when not needed to save water.

What Type of Valve Should be Used?

The most common type of dedicated shut off valve used for outdoor faucets is a quarter-turn ball valve or gate valve. These valve types offer full flow and positive shut off with a quick 90 degree turn.

Ideal features to look for include:

• Solid brass or stainless steel valve body
• Chrome plated brass ball or gate
• PTFE valve seats for smooth operation
• Lever style handle for easy turning
• Valve rated for exterior water pressure

Quarter turn valves are available in a wide range of sizes like 3/4 inch, 1 inch, or 1 1/4 inch to match common outdoor faucet piping. Always make sure any replacement shut off valve is the proper sizing for your water lines.

How to Maintain and Use the Valve

To keep your outdoor faucet shut off valve in proper working order:

• Turn the valve on and off periodically to prevent sticking.
• Lubricate the valve stem with penetrating oil if needed.
• Replace worn out compression washers on threaded valves.
• Insulate the valve to prevent freezing in cold climates.
• Label the valve to make it easily identifiable.

To use the valve, simply turn it a quarter turn to shut off water flow. Turn it perpendicular to the pipe again to restore water flow. Never force the valve past its natural stopping point.

Installing a New Shut Off Valve

If you need to install a new shut off valve for an exterior faucet, follow these general steps:

1. Turn off main water supply to the house.
2. Drain any residual water from the pipes.
3. Cut into the water line at the desired location for the valve.
4. Install valve fittings on each cut end of the pipe.
5. Connect the valve to the fittings and tighten.
6. Allow space around the valve for access and maintenance.
7. Label or tag the valve for easy identification.
8. Turn main water supply back on and check for leaks.
9. Test valve operation by turning on/off and checking the hose bibb.

Always follow local plumbing codes and use proper materials and tools when installing a new valve. Consult a professional plumber if you have any doubts or concerns.

Conclusion

Locating and maintaining the shut off valve for outside faucets is an important part of residential plumbing and water conservation. Take time to identify the valve location and periodically check that it is functioning properly. A fractions-of-a-turn ball valve or gate valve allows you to quickly control water flow to exterior hose bibbs and spigots in case of leaks, freezing, or off-season shut down. Knowing where your outdoor faucet shut off is located gives you the power to promptly address any water issues that arise.