Pets bring joy, companionship, and plenty of love into your home. They also bring fur, litter, food debris, and extra wear on your plumbing system. If you are a pet owner, your drains likely work harder than you realize.

Clogged drains are one of the most common service calls we receive at Putman & Sons Plumbing across Metro Detroit. The good news is that with a few proactive habits, you can significantly reduce buildup and prevent expensive repairs.

Why Pets Contribute to Drain Clogs

Pet hair is one of the biggest culprits behind slow drains. Unlike human hair, pet fur is often finer and sheds in larger quantities, especially during seasonal changes. When washed down bathtubs, utility sinks, or grooming stations, it combines with soap residue to create stubborn blockages.

Additional plumbing risks for pet owners include:

• Kitty litter rinsed down toilets
• Pet food scraps put into garbage disposals
• Mud and debris washed from paws
• Grease from homemade pet meals

Over time, these materials restrict flow and can lead to full drain or sewer backups.

If you notice early warning signs like slow drainage, gurgling sounds, or unpleasant odors, it may be time to schedule a professional.

Tip 1: Use Drain Screens in All Grooming Areas

Whether you bathe your dog in a tub or rinse off muddy paws in a utility sink, install a high quality drain screen. These inexpensive devices capture fur before it enters your plumbing system.

Make it a habit to remove collected hair after each wash. Preventing buildup at the source is far easier than clearing a clog later.

Tip 2: Never Flush Kitty Litter

Even litter labeled as flushable can expand inside pipes and cause serious blockages. Toilets are designed for human waste and toilet paper only.

If your toilet is frequently clogging, you may need a professional inspection. Our emergency plumbing service is available for urgent backups.

Tip 3: Be Careful with Garbage Disposals

Many pet owners prepare fresh meals for their animals. While it may seem convenient to rinse leftover food into the disposal, fibrous vegetables, bones, and fatty scraps can create buildup inside pipes.

If your disposal is humming, jammed, or draining slowly, our team also provides garbage disposal repair and installation to keep your kitchen running smoothly.

Tip 4: Rinse and Wipe Bowls Before Washing

Pet bowls often contain greasy residue. Before placing them in the sink or dishwasher, wipe out excess oils with a paper towel. This reduces the amount of grease entering your drain lines.

Grease may seem harmless in liquid form, but once it cools, it hardens and sticks to pipe walls.

Tip 5: Schedule Preventive Drain Maintenance

Even with careful habits, some buildup is unavoidable. Pet hair and debris can accumulate gradually without obvious warning signs.

Routine preventive plumbing inspections can catch minor blockages before they become major repairs. If you live in Metro Detroit and want peace of mind, schedule a plumbing inspection with our licensed team.

Signs Your Drains Need Attention

Call a professional if you notice:

• Slow draining tubs or sinks
• Recurring clogs
• Water backing up in unexpected fixtures
• Persistent odors from drains
• Gurgling sounds in pipes

Ignoring these signs can lead to costly sewer line issues.

Protect Your Plumbing and Your Pets

A healthy plumbing system keeps your entire household comfortable, including your pets. By using drain screens, avoiding litter flushing, managing grease properly, and scheduling preventive maintenance, you can significantly reduce the risk of clogs.

If your drains are already slowing down or backing up, do not wait. Putman & Sons Plumbing proudly serves homeowners across Metro Detroit with reliable, professional drain and sewer services.

Call today at (248) 652 0990 or schedule service online to keep your plumbing system clean and clear year round.

The post Pet Owners: Tips on Keeping Drains Clean and Clear appeared first on Putman & Son's Plumbing.

Why Proper Toilet Seat Measurement Matters

Choosing the correct toilet seat is more important than many homeowners realize. A seat that does not fit properly can shift, feel uncomfortable, or even crack over time. Taking a few minutes to measure correctly helps ensure comfort, stability, and a clean finished look. If you are already planning a bathroom update, proper measurements can also help avoid unnecessary delays or returns.

If your toilet or bathroom fixtures are outdated, this is also a good time to review your options for professional bathroom plumbing services.

Identify Your Toilet Bowl Shape

The first step in measuring for a new toilet seat is determining the shape of your toilet bowl. Most toilets fall into one of two categories: round or elongated.

Round Toilet Bowls

Round bowls are typically about 16 to 17 inches long from the mounting holes to the front edge of the bowl. These are common in older homes and smaller bathrooms where space is limited.

Elongated Toilet Bowls

Elongated bowls measure approximately 18 to 19 inches from the mounting holes to the front of the bowl. They offer added comfort and are common in newer homes.

To measure bowl length, place a tape measure at the center of the seat mounting holes and extend it to the front edge of the bowl. If you are unsure which style you have, a plumber can help confirm during a routine plumbing inspection.

Measure the Width of the Bowl

Next, measure the width of the bowl at its widest point. Most standard toilets are between 14 and 14.5 inches wide. While width variations are usually minor, confirming this measurement ensures the seat covers the bowl evenly and aligns correctly.

Measure the Bolt Hole Distance

Toilet seats are secured using bolts that pass through holes near the back of the bowl. Measure the distance between the centers of these holes. Standard bolt spacing is approximately 5.5 inches for most residential toilets.

If your toilet has non standard spacing, you may need a specialty seat or professional assistance from a licensed plumber to ensure proper fit and installation.

Check the Shape and Design of the Bowl

Some toilets feature unique designs such as square front bowls or compact models. These often require manufacturer specific toilet seats. Checking the toilet brand or model can help you find compatible options more quickly.

If replacement parts are difficult to find, upgrading the fixture may be worth considering. A plumber can help you evaluate options for toilet replacement services.

Consider the Toilet Seat Height

Seat height can impact comfort, especially for older adults or individuals with mobility concerns. Padded or raised toilet seats add extra height and may improve usability. While height does not affect fit, it is an important consideration for long term comfort.

Account for Hinges and Mounting Style

Different toilet seats use different hinge types and mounting methods. Some install from the top while others require access beneath the bowl. Measure the clearance between the toilet tank and wall to ensure the seat opens and closes properly.

Soft close hinges and quick release designs are popular upgrades and are often included during bathroom fixture installations.

How to Measure in Under Two Minutes

To measure quickly and accurately:

• Measure from bolt holes to the front edge for length
• Measure width at the widest point
• Measure distance between bolt holes

These three measurements are usually all you need to select the correct seat.

Common Measurement Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid guessing based on appearance alone. Many toilets look similar but require different seat sizes. Also avoid measuring the existing seat instead of the bowl, as seats may not match the original fixture.

When to Call a Professional

If you are dealing with an unusual toilet design, damaged mounting holes, or frequent shifting issues, a professional plumber can help. Expert guidance ensures proper fit and prevents leaks or damage during installation. You can schedule help through our residential plumbing services page.

Make Your Bathroom Upgrade Simple

Measuring for a new toilet seat is quick, simple, and helps ensure a comfortable, secure fit. Accurate measurements prevent frustration, protect your plumbing, and make small bathroom upgrades stress free.

The post How to Quickly Measure for Your New Toilet Seat appeared first on Putman & Son's Plumbing.