Image Source: images.ctfassets.net
How To Turn Off Water In Kitchen Sink: A Step-by-Step Guide
Do you need to stop water from flowing to your kitchen sink? Perhaps you have a leaky faucet, or you want to install a new one. Can you turn off water to just your kitchen sink? Yes, most kitchen sinks have small valves right under them. These valves let you stop water to only the sink. What is an angle stop valve kitchen sink? It is a small valve, usually with a round knob or a small lever, that stops water from reaching just one water fixture, like your sink or toilet. Why would you need to turn off water to your kitchen sink? You might need to for fixing a leaky kitchen faucet, for replacing kitchen sink faucet, or in an emergency to stop a big leak. This guide will show you exactly how to do it.
Why Stop Water Flow to Your Kitchen Sink?
Stopping the water flow to your kitchen sink is a basic home skill. It is very useful. Knowing how to do this can save you from big problems. It also helps you with home projects.
Fixing a Leaky Kitchen Faucet
A small drip from your faucet might not seem like much. But it can waste a lot of water. This wastes money. Over time, a leak can also cause water damage. This damage can be to your cabinets or floor. To fix a leak, you must turn off the water first. This makes the job clean and safe. It lets you work on the faucet parts without water spraying everywhere.
Replacing Kitchen Sink Faucet
Maybe your old faucet looks bad. Or it does not work well. You might want to put in a new one. A new faucet can make your kitchen look fresh. It can also work better. To take out the old faucet and put in a new one, you need to turn off the water. This is a must-do step. It keeps your kitchen dry during the work.
Emergency Water Shut Off Kitchen
Sometimes, a bigger problem happens. A pipe might burst. Or a hose might come loose. Water can start gushing out fast. This is a true emergency. You need to stop the water right away. Knowing how to do an emergency water shut off kitchen helps you act fast. It can stop a lot of damage to your home. It saves your floors, cabinets, and walls from water.
General Plumbing Repairs
You might not be fixing the faucet itself. You could be working on other parts near the sink. This might be the garbage disposal. Or maybe the drain pipes under the sink. Any work that is near the water lines means you should turn off the water. This keeps you safe. It keeps your workspace dry.
Planned Maintenance
Sometimes, you just want to check things. You might want to look at the pipes. Or clean the strainers inside the faucet. For any planned checks, it is a good idea to turn off the water. It makes the job easier. It also avoids surprise spills.
Tools You Might Need
You usually do not need many tools to turn off your kitchen sink water. Most times, your hands are enough. But having a few items close by is smart. Here is a list:
- Towels: Keep many towels handy. Water might drip. You might need to wipe surfaces.
- Bucket or Small Pan: Put this under the sink valves. It catches any water that drips out when you close the valves.
- Flashlight: It can be dark under your sink. A flashlight helps you see better.
- Adjustable Wrench (Optional): Most valves turn by hand. But older or tight ones might need a wrench. Use it gently.
- Screwdriver (Optional): Some old valve handles might have a screw. You might need to tighten it or remove a cover.
- Safety Glasses (Optional): If you are worried about splashes, wear glasses. This protects your eyes.
It is wise to gather these items before you start. This way, you do not have to stop midway to find them.
Locating the Water Shut-Off Valves
The most important step is to find the valves. These valves control the water flow to your sink. Knowing where they are is key.
Start Under the Sink
Most kitchen faucet water supply valves are found right under the sink. You will need to open the cabinet doors under your kitchen sink. Then, look up towards the bottom of the sink basin. You will see pipes coming down from the faucet. These are the water supply lines.
Look closely at these pipes. You should see two small valves.
* One valve is for the cold water line. This pipe usually comes from the right side.
* The other valve is for the hot water line. This pipe usually comes from the left side.
These are your under sink water shut off valves. They are often angle stop valves kitchen sink. An angle stop valve is shaped like an “L.” It lets the water pipe come from the wall and go up to the faucet. These valves have a small handle or a round knob. They are often made of chrome or brass.
What if You Cannot Find Them?
Sometimes, you might not see these valves under the sink. This is more common in older homes. Or in homes where the plumbing was done in a different way. If you do not find them right away:
- Check Basement or Crawl Space: The valves might be on the water lines in your basement. Or in a crawl space under your kitchen. Follow the pipes that go up to your kitchen.
- Look Near the Main Water Line: In some cases, there might be one main kitchen plumbing shut off valve. This valve controls all water to your kitchen. It might be in a utility closet. Or it might be in the laundry room.
- You Might Need to Use the Whole House Shut-Off: If you cannot find any specific kitchen shut-off, you will need to turn off all water to your house. We will talk more about this later. But it is always better to turn off only the sink water if you can.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Turn Off Hot and Cold Water Under Sink
Now, let’s get to the main part. Here are the steps to isolate water to kitchen sink using the valves under your sink.
Step 1: Clear the Space
First, you need to make room to work.
* Open the cabinet doors under your kitchen sink.
* Take out anything stored in the cabinet.
* This includes cleaning supplies, buckets, or trash cans.
* Move them out of your way. You need a clear view and space to reach the valves.
* Place your towels and bucket nearby. This prepares you for any drips.
Step 2: Locate Sink Shut Off Valve
Once the space is clear, look again for the valves.
* Find the pipe that brings cold water to your faucet.
* Find the pipe that brings hot water to your faucet.
* Each pipe should have a small valve attached to it.
* These are your under sink water shut off valves.
* They will have a small handle or a round knob.
* These are often angle stop valve kitchen sink units.
Step 3: Turn Off the Cold Water Valve
You should always start with the cold water valve.
* Find the handle or knob on the cold water valve.
* To turn off the water, you need to turn the handle clockwise. This means turning it to the right. Imagine tightening a screw.
* Turn the handle slowly. Turn it until it stops.
* Do not force it. Valves can be old or stiff. A little gentle pressure is fine. But do not push too hard. You do not want to break the valve.
* The valve is closed when the handle or knob is turned as far as it can go clockwise. For a lever-style valve, the lever should be crosswise to the pipe.
Step 4: Turn Off the Hot Water Valve
Next, do the same for the hot water valve.
* Find the handle or knob on the hot water valve.
* Turn this handle clockwise as well. Turn it to the right.
* Turn it slowly until it stops completely.
* Again, use gentle pressure. Do not force the valve.
* This step helps you isolate water to kitchen sink. Both hot and cold water will now be stopped at the sink.
Step 5: Test the Faucet
After you have turned off both valves, you need to check your work.
* Go to your kitchen faucet.
* Turn on both the hot water handle and the cold water handle.
* Let the water run for a few seconds.
* The water flow should slow down and then stop completely.
* You might hear some gurgling or spitting. This is normal. It is just water and air leaving the pipes.
* A few drips are okay at first. But a steady stream means a valve is not fully closed.
* If water keeps flowing, go back under the sink. Make sure both valves are turned off all the way. If they are, but water still flows, you might have a problem with the valves. Or you might need to use a main shut-off.
Here is a quick table to summarize the valve positions:
| Valve Type | Open Position | Closed Position |
|---|---|---|
| Round Knob Valve | Turn counter-clockwise | Turn clockwise (to the right) |
| Lever Handle Valve | Handle runs parallel | Handle runs crosswise |
What If Under-Sink Valves Don’t Work?
Sometimes, the small valves under the sink do not work. They might be stuck. Or they might not stop the water fully. In these cases, you have other options.
The Main Kitchen Plumbing Shut Off Valve
Some homes have a special shut-off valve just for the kitchen area. This is not as common as under-sink valves. But it does exist.
* This valve usually controls all water to your kitchen. This includes the sink, dishwasher, and refrigerator ice maker.
* You might find it in your basement. It could be in a utility closet. Or in the laundry room.
* It will be a single valve on a larger pipe.
* If you find this, turn it off. Turn it clockwise until it stops.
* Then, test your kitchen sink faucet. Water should stop.
The Whole House Main Water Shut-Off
If you cannot find any other way to stop the water, you must use the main water shut-off for your whole house.
* This valve stops all water flow to your entire home.
* This is often used for emergency water shut off kitchen situations if a major pipe bursts.
* It is vital to know where this valve is before an emergency happens.
* Common locations:
* Outside: Near your water meter. It might be in a covered box in the ground.
* Basement: Often on a pipe where the water line enters your house.
* Garage: Along an outside wall or in a utility area.
* Utility Closet: Sometimes found indoors where the main water line comes in.
* The main shut-off valve can be a large gate valve with a round handle. Or it can be a ball valve with a lever handle.
* To close a gate valve, turn the handle clockwise until it stops. This might take many turns.
* To close a ball valve, turn the lever handle a quarter turn. The lever should be crosswise to the pipe when closed.
* Once you turn off the main water, no water will come out of any faucet in your house.
After Turning Off the Water: Draining the Lines
You have turned off the water at the valves. But there is still some water left in the pipes leading to your faucet. You need to get this water out. This is called draining the lines.
Why Drain Water?
Draining the water is important for several reasons:
* To avoid spills: If you start disconnecting pipes without draining, water will come out. This can make a mess.
* To make repairs easier: Working on a wet area is harder. Draining the lines gives you a dry workspace.
* Removes water pressure: Water inside the pipes is under pressure. Draining it releases this pressure. This makes it safer to disconnect pipes.
How to Drain
Here is how to drain the water from your kitchen sink lines:
* Open the kitchen faucet: Go to your kitchen sink faucet. Turn on both the hot water handle and the cold water handle.
* Let water run until it stops: Water will start to flow out. It will slow down and then stop completely. This means the pipes leading to the faucet are empty.
* Catch drips with a bucket: Keep your bucket or pan under the sink. Even after the main flow stops, there might be a few last drips from the faucet or the valves. Catch these with your bucket.
The water is now off. The lines are empty. You are ready to work on your sink or faucet.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Sometimes, things do not go as planned. Here are some common problems you might face when turning off water to your kitchen sink. And how to fix them.
Valve is Stuck
Older valves, or valves that have not been used in a long time, can get stuck.
* Try gentle force: Put a little more force on the handle. But do not push too hard. You might damage the valve or the pipe.
* Wiggle it: Try turning the handle back and forth a tiny bit. This can sometimes loosen it up.
* Penetrating oil (carefully): If it is very stuck, you can try a tiny bit of penetrating oil. Spray it around the stem of the valve. Wait a few minutes. Then try to turn it again. Make sure not to get it on plastic parts. Wipe away any excess oil.
* Do not break it: If the valve still won’t turn, do not force it. You could break the valve. Or you could break the pipe it is attached to. This would cause a much bigger leak.
Valve is Leaking
You turn off the valve, but it still drips. Or it starts to leak more from the valve itself.
* Tighten the packing nut: Some valves have a small nut around the stem of the handle. This is called a packing nut. Gently tighten it a quarter turn with a wrench. This might stop a small drip.
* Faulty valve: If tightening does not work, the valve itself might be old or faulty. It might need repair or replacement. This is a job for a plumber if you are not comfortable with it.
* For now, a bucket: If the valve drips even when fully closed, keep a bucket or pan under it. This will catch the water until you can fix or replace the valve.
Water Still Flows
You have turned off the valves, but water keeps coming out of the faucet.
* Valve not fully closed: Go back under the sink. Double-check that both hot and cold valves are turned all the way off. Turn them clockwise until they stop firmly.
* Faulty valve: The valve might be broken inside. It might not be stopping the water flow even when turned off. In this case, you will need to use the main kitchen shut-off if you have one. Or turn off the main water to your whole house.
* Another source: Very rarely, water might come from somewhere else. But for a sink, this is very unlikely if you turned off the correct lines.
If you cannot stop the water at all, and it is an emergency, turn off your home’s main water supply. Then call a plumber right away.
Reversing the Process: Turning Water Back On
Once you are done with your work (fixing the leak, replacing the faucet, etc.), you need to turn the water back on. This also needs to be done with care.
Step 1: Close Faucet Handles
Before you turn the water back on, go to your kitchen sink faucet.
* Turn off both the hot and cold water handles on the faucet.
* Make sure they are fully closed.
* This prevents a sudden spray of water when the pressure returns.
Step 2: Slowly Open Shut-Off Valves
Now, go back under the sink.
* Find your under sink water shut off valves.
* Turn the cold water valve counter-clockwise. This means turning it to the left. Turn it slowly.
* Turn the hot water valve counter-clockwise too. Turn it slowly.
* Open them fully. This is usually when the handle is parallel to the pipe. Or when the knob has turned as far as it can go counter-clockwise.
* Why slowly? Opening the valves too fast can cause “water hammer.” This is a banging noise in your pipes. It happens when water rushes back too quickly. Slow opening prevents this.
Step 3: Check for Leaks
As the water pressure returns, check for any leaks.
* Look very closely at the valve connections.
* Look at the supply lines going up to the faucet.
* Look at the faucet connections themselves.
* Watch for any drips, sprays, or signs of water.
* If you see a leak, turn the water off again. Then, try to tighten the connection that is leaking. Or re-do the work you just finished.
Step 4: Bleed Air from Lines
When you turn the water back on, air gets trapped in the pipes. You need to let this air out.
* Go to your kitchen faucet.
* Turn on both the hot and cold water handles.
* You will hear spitting and sputtering. This is normal. It is the air leaving the pipes.
* Let the water run for a minute or two.
* Keep it running until the flow is smooth and steady. All the air should be out.
Related Tasks After Water Shut-Off
Turning off the water is often the first step in a bigger project. Here are two common tasks you might do after you have turned off the water.
Fixing a Leaky Kitchen Faucet
With the water off, you can now safely work on your leaky faucet.
* You will need to take apart parts of the faucet. This might include handles, cartridges, washers, or O-rings.
* Look for worn-out parts. These are often the cause of leaks.
* Replace any broken or worn parts with new ones. You can often buy repair kits for your faucet brand.
* Putting in new parts often fixes the leak.
* This is much safer and cleaner to do with no water flow.
Replacing Kitchen Sink Faucet
If you are putting in a new faucet:
* First, take off the old faucet. It might be held by nuts under the sink.
* Clean the sink area where the faucet sits.
* Next, put the new faucet in place.
* Connect the new kitchen faucet water supply valves (the flexible hoses that come with the new faucet) to your under sink valves.
* Make sure all connections are tight. But do not overtighten. This can crack plastic parts or strip threads.
* Always use plumber’s tape or pipe dope on threaded connections if the instructions say to. This helps create a good seal.
Maintaining Your Kitchen Plumbing Shut Off Valves
Your shut-off valves are important. Keeping them in good shape ensures they will work when you need them.
Regular Checks
- Once a year, it is a good idea to test your under sink water shut off valves.
- Turn them off slowly. Then turn them back on slowly.
- This keeps them from getting stuck. It helps the internal parts move freely.
- It also lets you know if they are working. If a valve is stuck or leaks when you test it, you know it needs attention.
What to Look For
When you check your valves, look for these signs:
* Signs of corrosion: Green or white crusty build-up. This means there might be a slow leak or mineral deposits.
* Small drips: Even a tiny drip when the valve is open means it might be failing.
* Difficulty turning: If the handle is hard to turn, it might be seizing up.
When to Call a Pro
Sometimes, it is best to call a professional plumber.
* If valves are stuck: If you cannot turn a valve without forcing it, call a plumber. They have special tools and skills to free stuck valves safely.
* If valves leak badly: If a valve starts spraying or dripping a lot when you touch it, do not try to fix it yourself. Call a plumber right away.
* If you are unsure: If you feel unsafe or unsure at any point, it is always wise to call a plumber. They can do the work safely and correctly.
Safety First: Important Tips
Working with water can be simple, but always be careful.
* Always use caution: Take your time. Do not rush.
* Wear old clothes: You might get dirty or wet.
* Keep a bucket ready: Even if you think all water is drained, a small amount might still come out.
* Do not force anything: If a valve or nut won’t turn easily, stop. Forcing it can cause damage.
* Know where your main water shut-off is: This is crucial for real emergencies.
* If you smell gas: This is not common near sink water lines, but it is a serious issue. If you ever smell gas, leave your home immediately. Turn off your main gas line if you know how. Then call your gas company or emergency services from a safe place.
Conclusion
Turning off the water to your kitchen sink is a practical skill for any homeowner. It is the first step for many tasks, from fixing a leaky kitchen faucet to replacing kitchen sink faucet. Knowing how to locate sink shut off valve and safely operate your under sink water shut off valves gives you control. It helps you prevent water damage in an emergency water shut off kitchen situation.
By following these simple steps, you can safely isolate water to kitchen sink. You can work on your plumbing with confidence. Remember to use the proper tools. Work slowly and carefully. And if you are ever unsure, a professional plumber is always there to help. This knowledge saves you time, money, and stress.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I turn off just my kitchen sink water?
Yes, in most homes, you can. Look for two small under sink water shut off valves directly underneath your kitchen sink. One valve is for hot water. The other is for cold water. Turning these off will stop water only to your kitchen sink.
What if my sink has no shut-off valves?
Some older homes may not have individual shut-off valves under the sink. If this is your case, you will need to turn off the main water supply to your entire house. Make sure you know where your main house water shut-off valve is located. It could be in your basement, garage, or outside near your water meter. You can also have a plumber install new angle stop valve kitchen sink units for easier future repairs.
How do I know if the valve is open or closed?
For a round knob valve, turning it all the way clockwise (to the right) makes it closed. Turning it counter-clockwise (to the left) makes it open. For a lever handle valve, the valve is closed when the handle is crosswise to the pipe. It is open when the handle is parallel to the pipe.
How long does it take to turn off kitchen sink water?
Once you find the locate sink shut off valve, it usually takes only a minute or two to turn them off. The longest part is often clearing the cabinet space under the sink. Or finding the valves if they are not in the usual spot.
Is it okay to leave the water off for a long time?
Yes, it is perfectly fine to leave the water off to your kitchen sink for any length of time. This will not cause any problems. If you turn off the main water to your entire house, it is also generally fine. But in very cold weather, if the pipes are left empty, they can freeze. Make sure pipes are properly drained or kept warm if the main water is off for a long time in winter.
What is an angle stop valve kitchen sink?
An angle stop valve kitchen sink is a common type of small shut-off valve. It is often used to connect a water supply pipe coming out of the wall to a flexible supply line going up to a fixture like a sink. It has a distinctive “L” or “corner” shape. It allows you to stop water to that specific fixture without affecting other water lines in your home.