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All of us at Putman & Son’s Plumbing wishes our family, friends and clients a very festive Easter holiday.
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Is Your Plumbing System Ready for the Warmer Temperatures?
Spring isn’t just about gardening. It’s also about making sure your plumbing system is performing at optimum levels. What can you do to prepare your plumbing system for the warm season?
Test Water Pressure for Leaky Pipes
A pipe may start leaking long before you notice any water in your home or on your property. Check water pressure throughout your home to ensure that it is performing at optimum levels. If you notice a drop in pressure, this could be a sign that something is damaged.
Make Sure Your Sump Pump Works
If your home has a sump pump, now is a good time to check on it. It should be tested once every three months. Check all components including:
- Drains that lead outside that can become blocked by debris
- The pump to ensure that it hasn’t tilted or shifted
- Electrical wires and the battery for signs of damage or corrosion
To test your sump pump, pour water into the pit. Fill until the float rises and watch to make sure it responds like it is supposed to.
Clean Gutters and Plumbing Vents
Animal activity can also be a problem. Squirrels and birds tend to build nests, and they may choose your gutters or vent as their new living space. These should be cleared out immediately to protect your home. It’s also best to move wildlife off before they get comfortable and start having babies in your plumbing vent.
Talk to a Professional Plumber for Spring Advice
Putman & Son’s certified plumbers can perform an in-depth inspection and provide advice to help you get ready for the rest of the year. We are available to come to your Southeast Michigan home to make sure your plumbing is in good working order. Give us a call today to schedule your appointment.
The Day of Water
World Water Day is a yearly UN observance that brings attention to the importance of freshwater and to advocate for its sustainability as a resource. In Michigan, we are fortunate to have The Great Lakes, which together make up the largest body of fresh water on our planet accounting for 1/5 of the freshwater on our earth.
Hire a Plumber to Get Rid of Odors
Unpleasant smells in sewer systems happen from time to time. Some issues are minor and can be addressed by the homeowner. Others may have a more serious cause that requires the help of a professional. How do you know when you need a plumber to get rid of an odor in your home?
Plumbing Odors You Can Fix
If you notice an odor from a sink or bathtub, it could be caused by a dry P-trap. This is a fixture that’s designed to trap sink debris before it enters your plumbing system.
The P-trap should have water in it to prevent gasses from coming up into your home. If your P-trap is dry, then you may notice an odor. To fix, you can refill with water then check again to make sure there are no leaks. You can also pour a little mineral oil into drains that are not used often to slow water evaporation in the P-trap.
Plumbing vents empty at roof-level. These can become blocked by environmental debris including leaves and snow. Make sure yours is clear to prevent odors from building up inside your home.
Odors That Need a Plumber
If you suspect that there is a leak in your P-trap, then you may need the help of a plumber. We can verify the cause and replace the fixture as needed.
Mold and mildew tend to grow in damp places. If you notice an odor accompanied by mold or mildew, this could be a sign that a pipe is leaking under a sink or behind a wall. Call us right away to figure out the cause and correct it before it severely damages your home.
A pipe blockage can also cause odors. You can try household methods to break up a blockage. However, if these do not work or if the clog returns, you should consult with one of our professionals. Contact Putman & Son’s Plumbing now to find out what’s causing odors in your plumbing system.
Make Your Home Environmentally Friendly with GREEN PLUMBING
When most people think of “going green,” their minds usually go to recycling, reducing waste, and conserving energy. Did you know that your plumbing system can also go green? Green plumbing is another way more people are reducing their impact on the environment. There are many ways to get started.
Update Old Plumbing Systems
Old plumbing systems were not built to today’s standards. We have better methods and technology that allow the system to operate efficiently. If you haven’t updated your plumbing in years, it may be time to do so. Not only will it help the environment, but it can also reduce the cost of your monthly water and sewer bills.
Install Energy Efficient Appliances
Along with better hardware, energy-efficient appliances are also available. These require less water and power to operate. Your plumbing system is likely connected to at least two or three appliances like a dishwasher, washing machine, or water heater. If yours are old, malfunctioning, or not built to Energy Star standards, it may be time to look for replacements.
Have a Professional Inspect Your System
More plumbers are getting on board with the green movement. Having one inspect your system can provide you with insight into what needs updated. Look for a professional that works with green plumbing systems. They can recommend products that will meet your household needs while reducing water and energy consumption and waste production. If you have questions, contact Putman and Son’s Plumbing today to get started on your green plumbing system.
Why Is My Water Pressure Low?
Low water pressure can be frustrating. It can also be a sign of a problem that needs to be fixed in your plumbing system. The following list outlines several common causes of low water pressure.
- Clog in Water Pipes
If the valves are open and you’re still experiencing low water pressure, then there may be a clog. This affects a small section of the system, which can be tricky to locate. It’s usually best to call a professional to find the problem and clean it out.
- Fixtures Need Repaired or Replaced
Malfunctioning fixture rank among the most common causes of low water pressure. If yours are old, they may be damaged or clogged with dirt, limestone, or rust. This will slow water movement.
Go through your home and turn faucets on one at a time to determine if this is the problem. Also, make sure you check the aerators and screens before replacing any fixtures.
- Faulty Water Valves
Each home has two shut-off valves, one on the meter side and the other on the home side of your water line. If one of the valves isn’t completely open, it can cause low pressure. Try gently opening and closing the valves a few times to free any sediment and increase water pressure.
- Corroded or Outdated System
Corrosion can happen, especially in an old plumbing system. This can lead to low water pressure. You may need to replace all the pipes to deal with the issue.
Some aged systems have narrower branch lines. When a fixture is updated, the old branch lines will still limit water flow. These must be replaced to get optimum performance out of your system.
- Insufficient Water Supply Line
Insufficient main supply line can cause low pressure. This issue should be handled by a professional only. Local records may be needed to check connection size in your home.
If you are experiencing low water pressure, contact Putman and Son’s Plumbing today. Our licensed plumbers can inspect your system and help you find a solution that works.
