A constantly running toilet is not only annoying but also a waste of water and money. If you’re planning on doing some toilet repair work or simply want to stop the water flow while you’re away, it’s crucial to know how to turn off the water supply to your toilet. Here are three different ways to do just that.

1. Turn Off the Angle Stop Valve

The angle stop valve is a small valve located near the base of your toilet, usually on the left side. It has a metal or plastic handle that controls the flow of water from the main water supply line into your toilet’s tank. To turn off the water supply:

a. Locate the angle stop valve on the left side of your toilet near the base.

b. Turn the handle clockwise until it tightens and stops moving. This will close off the valve and cut off water flow to your toilet.

c. Test by flushing your toilet – no water should refill in the tank.

2. Shut Off Main Water Supply Valve

If you can’t locate or access your angle stop valve, or it isn’t working properly, you can opt for shutting off the main water supply to your home. This method will also prevent water flow into all other plumbing fixtures in your house.

a. Locate your home’s main shut-off valve – usually in a utility room, basement, garage, near a water heater or outside by an exterior wall.

b. Turn the wheel handle (gate valve) clockwise or lever handle (ball valve) perpendicular to the pipe until it can’t move any further.

c. Check any faucet in your house to confirm that there’s no running water.

3. Use Pipe Clamps (Emergency Solution)

If neither of these options is viable, as a temporary solution, you can use pipe clamps (or locking pliers) to stop the water supply to your toilet in case of an emergency.

a. Find the water supply pipe connected to your toilet – usually it’s a flexible pipe coming from the angle stop valve.

b. Use locking pliers or pipe clamps to tightly grip the pipe.

c. Slowly tighten the clamps until water flow ceases. However, be cautious not to overtighten or damage the pipe.

Once you’ve successfully turned off the water supply using one of these methods, you can proceed with any toilet repairs or simply leave it off while you’re away from home. Always remember to turn the water supply back on once you’ve completed any necessary work.