What is a stopcock and what does it do?

A stopcock looks like a tap, but without an outlet spout. It will be between two lengths of pipe, acting as a connector. This allows the stopcock to block the flow of water when it’s closed off.

Is a stop cock the same as a stop valve?

Your outside stop valve is also known as your stopcock or stop tap. It controls the cold-water supply going into your home. You should only use your outside stop valve in an emergency, for example if you have a leak on the supply pipe between the inside and outside stop valves.

What is another name for a stopcock?

What is another word for stopcock?

valve	faucet
gate	spigot
tap	stopper
switch	spout
hydrant	nozzle

Where does the word stopcock come from?

Detailed word origin of stopcock (British, NZ, pejorative, slang) A stupid person.. (curling) The circle at the end of the rink.. (dated, humorous) A chief man; a leader or master.. (informal) shuttlecock.

Should the stopcock be fully open?

Should Stopcock be Fully Open? Keeping the stopcock fully open will cause no major harm but it can allow limescale to buildup in the spindle. We recommend that you have turn it fully open and then back by half a turn, which should prevent the spindle jamming up.

Which way should a stopcock turn?

To turn off the mains, look for the stopcock under the sink. Turn it clockwise, as if you were turning any other kind of tap off. This will stop the flow of water to all outlets in the home. If you have a leak, this may not stop it immediately, but it will prevent it from running indefinitely.

Where is the water shut-off valve outside my house?

Look for a rectangular or round cover that will be near the edge of your property, often between the curb and the sidewalk. Some water main valves are located along an alley, rather than the street. The cover may be metal or plastic, and it might say “water meter” to help with identification.