01
Main water line shutoff
Where to look: The curb meter box near the front sidewalk (brass valve with a cross tab), or the main ball valve inside the garage next to the water heater.
Do this: Turn the brass lever a quarter turn until it sits across the pipe. Then open the lowest outdoor hose bibb to take the pressure off the line.
02
Frozen AC coil or overflowing pan
Where to look: Warm air from the vents, ice on the copper suction line outside, or water spilling out of the secondary attic pan.
Do this: Move the thermostat system switch from COOL to OFF and the fan from AUTO to ON. The coil thaws without burning out the compressor.
03
Gas or furnace odor
Where to look: Sulfur or rotten egg smell anywhere near the furnace closet or the gas water heater.
Do this: Do not touch a light switch or an appliance. Get everyone outside, turn the meter valve a quarter turn if you can reach it from outside, then call dispatch or 911.
04
Water heater rupture
Where to look: The cold water supply pipe on top of the tank, and the electrical disconnect or the gas shutoff knob at the bottom.
Do this: Close the cold valve directly above the tank. For electric, flip the 30A double breaker at the panel. For gas, turn the thermostat dial to OFF.