Shut Off Valve Closed But Water Still Running? Fix It Now!

You turned off your shut off valve, but the water is still running? That’s frustrating! You might expect everything to stop immediately, but water keeps flowing — what’s going on? I’ve been there too, confused and a bit worried when my sink wouldn’t stop dripping even though I turned the valve all the way. The good news? There is a clear fix. In this article, I’ll walk you through what’s really happening, why it happens, and how to fix it without calling a plumber.

Check If the Valve Is Really Closed

Sometimes the valve looks like it’s off, but it’s not fully shut. You might think you’ve turned it enough, but it may need a tighter twist. This happens a lot with old or stiff valves. They get stuck halfway or the internal parts don’t close fully even though the handle looks like it’s in the right position. If you don’t use it often, dirt and hard water buildup can make it harder to close all the way.

To check it again, go to the valve and turn it clockwise. Don’t force it too much, but make sure it’s tight. If it’s a lever valve (the one you push or pull), push it all the way until it’s flat and completely horizontal — that usually means off. For round handles, turn until it doesn’t move anymore.

If you’re still seeing water run from a faucet, try turning it on and off again to test if pressure changes. Sometimes, pressure inside the pipe can take a few minutes to release even after the valve is shut. Try opening the faucet all the way after closing the valve — if water trickles out and stops, you’re good.

Now, if water keeps flowing strong, then you might be dealing with something else — like a broken valve. But first, double-check that it’s not a case of misunderstanding the type of valve or not turning it all the way.

Summary:

• Double check the valve direction: clockwise to close
• Lever valves should be flat or perpendicular when off
• Sometimes takes a moment for pressure to drop
• Try turning the faucet on and off again to test
• Make sure you’re not being gentle with an old valve

Understand How Shut Off Valves Work

To fix the problem, it helps to understand how these valves actually work. There are a few types, but most homes have either compression valves or ball valves.

Compression valves have a handle that turns multiple times and a rubber washer inside that pushes against a seat to stop water. Ball valves, on the other hand, have a straight-through hole in a metal ball — when the lever turns, it rotates the ball and either allows water or blocks it.

Old compression valves are common in older homes, and they wear out more easily. Over time, the washer inside can get hard, cracked, or just not seal properly anymore. When this happens, even if the valve feels tight, water can still pass through.

With ball valves, if they’re old or corroded, the ball inside may not turn fully, or it may be stuck in a half-open state. This means water will continue to flow, even though the handle appears to be in the “off” position.

Sometimes, people assume that turning the main water valve off means all water should stop. But if you have other systems, like water heaters, outside lines, or bypass loops, water might still flow from those sources, especially if the valve is only for one part of the system.

Summary:

• Two main valve types: compression (twist) and ball (lever)
• Compression valves rely on rubber washers
• Ball valves use a metal ball to block water
• Worn washers or stuck balls can let water pass
• Some valves don’t control every water source in your home

See If the Valve Is Broken Inside

A valve can look totally fine outside, but inside, things may be falling apart. Over years, valves can corrode, crack, or lose their seal. The metal parts inside may get rusty or filled with mineral deposits. When this happens, even when the valve is turned off, the inside piece that’s supposed to block water doesn’t work properly.

Here’s a sign the valve might be broken inside: if you turn it off and water still flows like nothing changed. This usually means the internal stopper (washer or ball) isn’t moving or sealing right. In compression valves, the rubber washer might be missing, torn, or no longer pushing down hard enough. In ball valves, the handle may turn but the ball inside is stuck in place.

Try gently tapping the valve with a wrench (not too hard) and see if it helps the water stop. Sometimes this can shake loose stuck buildup. If that doesn’t work, the valve probably needs replacing.

You can also try turning off the main water supply to the house and then remove the broken valve. This is something a homeowner with basic tools can do, but if you’re unsure, calling a plumber might be a good idea for safety.

Summary:

• Internal parts can corrode or wear out
• Valve may look fine but be broken inside
• Compression valves rely on a working washer
• Ball valves may stick and not seal inside
• Sometimes replacing the valve is the only fix

Test Other Water Sources in the Home

If the valve you shut off is for a specific fixture like a sink or toilet, make sure that water isn’t coming from somewhere else. You may have turned off the cold water line but left the hot one on — or vice versa. Sometimes, water heaters can send backflow into pipes and keep water running when it shouldn’t.

One way to test is to shut off both the hot and cold water lines to the fixture. If the water still runs, it might be a shared water line or even a leak in another part of the system that’s finding its way to your faucet.

In homes with older plumbing or complex water systems, it’s common to find crossover pipes or alternate paths where water keeps flowing even when one valve is off. This is especially true in homes with extra features like basement bathrooms, water softeners, or irrigation systems.

Also check that you’ve shut the right valve. It’s easy to get confused with under-sink setups where valves are tight together. Try tracing the pipe backward to make sure you’re turning the valve connected to the correct line.

Summary:

• Water may come from another line (hot/cold mix)
• Backflow from heater can keep water running
• Complex systems can have crossover or bypass lines
• Double check you’re closing the right valve
• Shut both hot and cold to fully test water flow

Replace the Valve If It’s Faulty

If you’ve tested everything and the valve is still letting water flow, it’s probably time to replace it. This might sound like a big task, but with the right tools and steps, it’s very doable. First, turn off the main water supply to the whole house. This ensures no water flows while you remove the faulty valve.

You’ll need a wrench, plumber’s tape, and possibly a new compression or ball valve (depending on what type you’re replacing). Use the wrench to loosen the old valve. Be careful — old valves can be stuck and may break if forced too hard.

Once it’s off, clean the threads or pipe end before installing the new one. Wrap plumber’s tape on the threads and screw on the new valve tightly. Make sure it lines up the same way as the old one.

After that, turn the main water supply back on and test the valve. Open and close it a few times while watching the fixture — if water stops, you’ve fixed the problem. If you’re unsure during any part of this, don’t hesitate to call a plumber. Safety matters more than speed.

Summary:

• Turn off main water before replacing
• Use plumber’s tape and tighten carefully
• Clean pipe threads for better sealing
• Test the new valve after install
• Call a plumber if you’re not confident

Prevent Future Valve Problems

After fixing the issue, you don’t want it to happen again, right? You can prevent valve problems by doing a few simple things. First, turn your valves on and off a few times every year, even if you’re not using them. This keeps them from getting stiff or stuck.

Second, check for leaks or drips every few months. A small leak can mean a washer or valve is starting to wear out. Catching it early saves you from bigger problems later.

If your home has very hard water, consider installing a water softener. Hard water builds up minerals inside pipes and valves, causing them to fail sooner.

Also, when buying new valves, get good-quality ones. Brass valves last longer and work better than plastic or cheaper metal. It’s a little more money up front, but it saves time and worry later.

Summary:

• Turn valves occasionally to keep them loose
• Look for signs of leaks every few months
• Install water softener if you have hard water
• Buy high-quality valves for durability
• Stay ahead of wear by regular checks

Final Thoughts

Dealing with a shut off valve that won’t stop water can feel overwhelming at first. But with some time and basic steps, it’s something most homeowners can handle. From double-checking the valve position to understanding how it works and replacing it if needed, the solution is often closer than you think. Just take it slow, don’t panic, and take pride in learning how your plumbing works. It’ll save you time, money, and a lot of stress down the road.

Table of Information

Topic	Key Details
Valve Types	Compression (twist), Ball (lever)
Common Issues	Valve not fully closed, broken parts, mineral buildup
Quick Fixes	Tighten valve, test faucet, tap gently
Full Fix	Replace the valve after shutting main supply
Prevention	Turn valves regularly, check for leaks, use quality valves
Tools Needed	Wrench, plumber’s tape, replacement valve
Other Water Sources	Test hot/cold lines, check for backflow
Maintenance	Water softeners help with hard water

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it normal for water to keep running after shutting off a valve?

No, it’s not normal. If water keeps running, it means the valve is either not fully closed or is broken inside. Even if the handle feels tight, the internal parts may be worn out or stuck. In older valves, rubber washers might no longer seal well. It’s also possible the wrong valve was closed or another water source is feeding the fixture. Always check both hot and cold lines and verify the valve is for that specific location. If water continues, it’s best to inspect and possibly replace the valve.

Can a shut off valve go bad?

Yes, shut off valves can go bad over time. They often wear out due to age, hard water buildup, or lack of use. Compression valves have rubber washers that crack or harden, while ball valves can stick or corrode inside. If a valve hasn’t been turned in years, it may be stuck open or won’t seal correctly. This can cause water to keep flowing even when the valve appears off. Replacing the valve is usually the best fix if it shows signs of failure.

Do I need to replace a shut off valve if it leaks?

Yes, in most cases, a leaking valve should be replaced. A leak usually means that the washer inside has failed or there’s corrosion. Temporary fixes like tightening the packing nut may help briefly, but the problem will return. Replacing it ensures a proper seal and prevents future water damage. Make sure to shut off the main water supply first before doing any replacement work, and if you’re unsure, consider getting help from a professional plumber.

Can I fix a broken shut off valve myself?

Yes, many homeowners can fix or replace a broken valve with basic tools. All you need is a wrench, plumber’s tape, and a new valve. The most important step is to shut off the main water supply before beginning. Remove the old valve, clean the threads, and screw on the new one tightly. If the area is hard to reach or you don’t feel confident, it’s perfectly okay to call a plumber to avoid causing any damage or leaks.

Is it dangerous to leave a broken shut off valve?

Yes, it can be dangerous in the long term. A broken shut off valve means you can’t control water flow during emergencies. If a pipe bursts or a fixture leaks, you’ll have no way to isolate the water, which could lead to serious flooding and water damage. It’s always best to replace a faulty valve quickly. Having all valves working properly gives you control over your home’s plumbing system and helps avoid costly repairs later.

Do I need to turn off the main water to replace a valve?

Yes, always turn off the main water before replacing any shut off valve. This ensures no water pressure is in the pipe while you work. If water is still in the system, it can make the job messy, dangerous, or even impossible. Once the valve is replaced, you can turn the main supply back on and test the new valve. Skipping this step could result in water spraying everywhere, especially if the old valve suddenly breaks during removal.

Can shut off valves be cleaned instead of replaced?

Sometimes, yes — especially if the issue is minor, like mineral buildup. You can remove the valve and soak it in vinegar or a descaling solution to break up hard water deposits. However, if the washer or internal mechanism is damaged, cleaning won’t help. In most cases, replacing the valve is a more reliable fix and ensures long-term performance. Still, trying to clean a newer valve before replacing it might be worth a shot.

Do I need to check all valves in my house regularly?

Yes, it’s a good habit to check all shut off valves every few months. Turn them on and off to make sure they’re not stuck, and look for any signs of leaks or corrosion. Doing this can prevent problems before they start. If a valve hasn’t been touched in years, it might fail when you need it most. Regular checks are simple and take only minutes but can save you hundreds in plumbing costs later.