Turn Off Hot Water Supply To Taps

How to Turn Off Your Hot Water Supply to Individual Taps: A Comprehensive Guide

Turning off the hot water supply to individual taps is a common household task, useful for repairs, maintenance, or simply preventing scalding accidents. This guide provides a step-by-step process, covering various tap types and potential troubleshooting. Knowing how to do this can save you time, money, and potential water damage.

Why Turn Off Your Hot Water Supply?

There are several reasons you might need to shut off the hot water to a specific tap:

• Repairing a leaky tap: Preventing further water waste and damage.
• Replacing a tap: Ensuring a clean and dry work area.
• Preventing scalding: Especially important in households with young children or elderly individuals.
• Maintenance: Performing routine cleaning or inspection.

Identifying Your Tap's Isolation Valves

Before you begin, you need to locate the isolation valves controlling the hot water supply to your taps. These valves are usually located:

• Underneath the sink: This is the most common location. Look for two valves, one for hot and one for cold water.
• Within the tap itself: Some modern taps have built-in isolation valves. Check your tap's manual or online resources for specific instructions.
• On the pipework: In some older homes, the isolation valves might be located further away on the main pipework.

Types of Isolation Valves and How to Turn Them Off

You'll likely encounter one of these types of valves:

• Lever Valves: These are usually quarter-turn valves. Turn the lever a quarter-turn (90 degrees) clockwise to shut off the water. A clear stop will be felt.
• Wheel Valves (or Gate Valves): Turn the wheel clockwise until the water flow stops. You may need to turn it several times for a complete shut-off.
• Ball Valves: These are usually quarter-turn valves, similar to lever valves.

Step-by-Step Guide to Turning Off Hot Water to a Tap:

1. Locate the isolation valve: Identify the valve controlling the hot water supply to the specific tap.
2. Turn off the valve: Turn the valve clockwise until it stops. This should cut off the hot water supply to that tap.
3. Turn on the tap: Turn on the hot water tap to relieve any remaining pressure in the line. A small amount of water might initially escape.
4. Verify the shut-off: Check that the hot water is completely off.

Troubleshooting Common Problems:

• Valve won't turn: Try using pliers or a valve wrench (for stubborn valves). If the valve is severely corroded or damaged, you might need to replace it.
• Water still flowing: Ensure the valve is fully closed. If the problem persists, there may be a leak further down the line, requiring a plumber's assistance.
• Can't locate the valves: If you can't find the isolation valves, consider consulting a plumber.

Important Safety Precautions:

• Always turn off the water supply before undertaking any plumbing repairs.
• If you're unsure about any step, consult a qualified plumber.
• Be careful when working with water pipes, as they may be under pressure.

By following these steps, you can confidently turn off the hot water supply to your taps, facilitating repairs, maintenance, or simply ensuring safety in your home. Remember, if you encounter any significant problems, it's always best to contact a qualified plumber.