All of us at Putman & Son’s Plumbing wishes our family, friends and clients a very festive Easter holiday.
plumbing inspection
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.
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.
Preparing Your Home’s Plumbing for the Fall and Winter
Below are cost saving, fall and winter preparatory tips to do now to prevent many common plumbing issues.
Prepare your pipes for freezing temperatures
It is highly recommended to prepare your pipes for freezing temperatures as fall gets underway. When the temperature drops below freezing there is the potential for your pipes to burst, which can produce quite a mess and be expensive to fix.
To protect against this, be sure to check for any areas of your home that have uninsulated pipes. Common areas that are not insulated include: the outer walls, the garage, and the cellar. You can purchase a plumbing insulation kit from most hardware stores, and it is fairly easy to install on your home.
Make sure your water heater is running properly
Check to make certain your water heater is properly functioning, as it is important for it to work adequately during the fall and winter. Now is a good time to check that no repairs are needed and that the sacrificial anode rod is working correctly.
You can inspect your heater yourself if you have the experience and knowledge or hire one of our professional master plumbers.
Set your water heater temperature at no greater than 120 F to prevent energy waste and scalding.
Call us if you need a plumbing inspection
If you are in need of a plumbing inspection before the winter to prevent your pipes from freezing and/or to have a professional check of your water heater, contact Putman & Sons Plumbing for an appointment. We also have maintenance plans for all seasons to proactively help prevent costly plumbing problems.