Best Washing Machine Shut Off Valves in 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

Which way do you turn a washing machine shut off valve to close it?

Turn a round handle clockwise to close it, and turn a lever handle until it sits across the pipe. A quarter-turn ball valve, like the Eastman 60280, is open when the lever runs along the pipe and closed when it is crosswise.

A single-lever valve such as the Watts Duo-Cloz closes hot and cold with one flip. If a valve will not move, stop and use the main shutoff rather than forcing it.

Should I turn off my washing machine valves when not in use?

Closing them before travel is a sound habit, and closing them after each load is reasonable when the laundry sits above finished rooms.

The fill hoses hold full pressure whenever the valves are open, so closed valves mean a failing hose has no water to release. A single-lever valve makes this a one-second job. If you will not do it, an automatic shutoff does it for you.

How does an automatic washing machine shut off valve work?

A sensor on the floor detects water and tells a controller to close valves on the washer's hot and cold supply. FloodStop's kit adds an audible and visual alarm and runs on plug-in power with optional AA batteries.

Some other designs open the water only while the washer draws power. Either way, the valve stops the supply; it cannot remove water that has already spilled.

Can I replace a washing machine shut off valve myself?

YesIf the valve is threaded or your pipes take a push-fit valve, and you can shut off the main water first.

The SharkBite 25560LF needs no solder or tools, per its listing, and FloodStop's valves screw onto the existing hose connections. Soldered valves, valves inside a wall that need the box opened, or corroded pipes are better left to a plumber, since a slip can damage the supply line.

Why is my washing machine shut off valve leaking?

Usually because a worn washer, seal or stem packing lets water past, or the hose connection needs a new rubber washer. A drip at the hose joint is the simple fix: replace the hose washer.

A drip from the valve stem or body means the valve is wearing out. EPA WaterSense says a faucet dripping once a second wastes more than 3,000 gallons a year, and a hidden valve drip also wets the wall and floor.

What size is a washing machine shut off valve?

Most US washer valves have a 1/2 in inlet from the supply pipe and a 3/4 in hose-thread outlet for the washer hose. Every pick on this page follows that pattern.

What differs is the inlet connection: sweat (soldered), male pipe thread, or push-fit. Check your pipe material and the existing connection before ordering, because that decides which valve fits.

Who do I call right now for water damage?

Call (888) 840-6512. The line is answered 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and connects you with an IICRC-certified water damage restoration company that serves your area. A recorded menu picks up first: choose water damage or mold, key in your 5-digit ZIP code, and hold through the short silence while the call is passed to the company.

Describe what you can see — where the water is coming from, how long it has been there, and whether it smells — the more specific you are, the faster the right company is on the line. If the source is a pipe or an appliance, shut the main water valve first. Have four things ready and the call goes quickly: the address, when the water started, what is wet now, and whether you have filed an insurance claim.

Still not sure which of these is your situation? (888) 840-6512 · toll-free · answered 24/7