Most stop taps have a small, coin-like handle or a lever. If it’s an older house, you’ll probably see a wheel handle—you know, the kind you spin clockwise to shut off water. It looks like a tiny steering wheel for ants.
Look for a lumpy metal thing on the pipe. It’s usually about the size of your fist, with a stem sticking up. That stem is connected to the handle. If you’re lucky, the handle is bright red or blue. If you’re unlucky, it’s the same color as the pipe, hiding in plain sight.
The "Inside vs. Outside" Trap
Here’s the kicker: you might have two stop taps. One is inside your house (usually under the kitchen sink or in the basement), and the other is outside, buried in a little pit near the street. The outdoor one looks way more industrial—a heavy metal knob or a T-shaped bar. It’s like comparing a granola bar to a steel girder.
Don’t mess with the outdoor one if you don’t have to. It’s the city’s property, and it requires a special key to turn. Plus, you might get yelled at by a grumpy utility worker. Trust me.
Protecting Your Home From Damp & Mould | esure.com
