How to spot ball valve open and closed positions

You've probably found yourself staring at a pipe in the basement or under the kitchen sink, wondering about the ball valve open and closed positions while trying to stop a leak or start a project. It's one of those things that seems incredibly simple until you're actually looking at it, especially if the handle is stuck or the markings have worn off over the years. Understanding whether a valve is "on" or "off" is a fundamental skill for any homeowner, but there's a little more to it than just a random turn of the wrist. ...

March 2, 2026 · 7 min · Engle Dascal