To turn off the water supply to your washing machine, you typically locate the water valves connected to the supply hoses behind the appliance and turn them off.
Locating the Water Valves
Washing machines usually have two water connections: one for hot water and one for cold water. These connections are made via flexible hoses that run from the back of the washing machine to water valves located on the wall.
- Where to look: The valves are most commonly found on the wall directly behind or near the washing machine.
- Identifying the valves: You will see two valves, often labeled 'H' for hot and 'C' for cold. Each valve should have a handle.
Turning Off the Water Supply
The method for turning off the water depends on the type of valve handle. Based on the provided reference, one common method involves using a tap-style handle:
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Using Tap-Style Valves:
- According to the reference, to turn the water off using this type of tap, you should "Turn that clockwise to turn your water off".
- To turn the water back on, you would turn the tap "90 degrees backwards".
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Other Valve Types: While the reference specifies a tap, other common types include:
- Lever handles: These usually require turning the handle 90 degrees until it is perpendicular to the pipe for the 'off' position.
- Knob handles: Similar to outdoor spigots, these are turned clockwise until snug to shut off the flow.
Why Turn Off the Water?
It's good practice to turn off the washing machine's water supply when:
- The machine is not in use for an extended period (e.g., while on vacation).
- You are performing maintenance or repairs on the machine or the hoses.
- You notice a leak from the hoses or connections.
Turning off the valves helps prevent potential leaks and water damage, especially from hose failure which can happen unexpectedly.
Summary of Steps
| Step | Action | Valve Type (Example from Reference) |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Locate Valves | Find the hot and cold water valves behind the machine. | N/A |
| 2. Identify Handle Type | Determine if the handles are taps, levers, or knobs. | Tap-style |
| 3. Turn Off Hot Water | Turn the hot water handle clockwise until it stops. | Turn clockwise |
| 4. Turn Off Cold Water | Turn the cold water handle clockwise until it stops. | Turn clockwise |
| 5. (Optional) Stopcock | If valves are unavailable, locate and turn off the main household stopcock (reference mentions this as an alternative). | N/A |
Always remember to turn the handles firmly but do not overtighten, as this can damage the valve. Turning the water supply off is a simple yet crucial step for maintaining your home and washing machine.
