Where are shut off valves typically located in a water distribution system?

Shut off valves are strategically placed in a water distribution system to facilitate maintenance and repairs without needing to shut down the entire system. Their most common location is at the connection points where underground mains meet distributor pipes. This allows for efficient isolation of segments of the system when necessary, enabling targeted repairs or maintenance to be conducted without impacting the entire network of water distribution.

Valves located at the water treatment plant primarily control the flow of treated water entering the distribution system, but they are not typically classified as shut off valves for distribution purposes. Shut off valves at the water source serve a different purpose, usually involving initial flow control more than distribution management. Fire hydrants may have their own valves, but these are usually to manage water flow specifically for firefighting rather than general distribution purposes. Thus, the placement of shut off valves at connection points is essential for effective water distribution management.