A burst pipe is one of the most stressful plumbing emergencies a homeowner can face. Water can spread quickly, damaging walls, floors, furniture, and personal belongings. Knowing what to do in the first moments after a pipe bursts can significantly reduce damage and help repairs stay manageable.

1. Shut Off the Water Supply Immediately

The first and most important step is shutting off the main water supply to your home. This stops additional water from flowing through the broken pipe and prevents further flooding.

Every homeowner should know where their main shutoff valve is located. If you cannot find it quickly, shutting off water at the meter may be necessary.

2. Turn Off Electricity in Affected Areas

If water is spreading near electrical outlets, appliances, or breaker panels, turn off electricity to the affected areas. Water and electricity are a dangerous combination, and safety should always come first.

If you are unsure, contact a professional before entering flooded spaces.

3. Drain Remaining Water From Pipes

After shutting off the water supply, open faucets throughout the home to drain remaining water from the plumbing system. This helps relieve pressure and minimizes additional leaks from damaged pipes.

Flush toilets once to help clear water from the system.

4. Protect Your Belongings

Move furniture, rugs, and valuables away from standing water. If possible, elevate items to prevent further damage. Quick action helps reduce the risk of mold growth and material deterioration.

Document visible damage with photos for insurance purposes before cleanup begins.

5. Call a Professional Plumber Right Away

Even if the leak appears small, professional repairs are essential. A plumber can assess the extent of the damage, repair or replace the pipe, and check for additional weaknesses in the system.

Prompt professional service helps ensure repairs are done safely and correctly.

Stay Prepared for Plumbing Emergencies

Pipe bursts can happen unexpectedly due to freezing temperatures, aging pipes, or sudden pressure changes. Preparing in advance and knowing these steps helps homeowners respond confidently and protect their property.

The post 5 Things To Do If You Have a Pipe Burst appeared first on Putman & Son's Plumbing.

Why Safe Thawing Matters

Thawing frozen pipes improperly can cause more harm than good. Rapid temperature changes or unsafe heating methods can crack pipes and lead to sudden flooding. Using the right approach protects your plumbing and your home.

Step One: Identify the Frozen Pipe

Before thawing, determine which pipe is affected.

• Check faucets with no water flow
• Look for frost on exposed pipes
• Focus on areas near exterior walls or unheated spaces

Knowing the location helps you thaw the pipe evenly and safely.

Step Two: Turn On the Faucet

Open the affected faucet slightly before thawing begins. This allows water to flow as ice melts and helps relieve pressure inside the pipe.

Safe Methods for Thawing Frozen Pipes

Use controlled, gradual heat to thaw pipes safely.

Use a Hair Dryer

A standard hair dryer is one of the safest tools. Start at the faucet end of the pipe and move slowly toward the frozen section.

Apply Warm Towels

Soak towels in warm water and wrap them around the frozen area. This method works well for exposed pipes and reduces overheating risks.

Use a Space Heater

For larger areas like basements or crawl spaces, a space heater can raise ambient temperature. Keep heaters a safe distance from flammable materials.

Methods to Avoid

Certain thawing methods are dangerous and should never be used.

• Open flames such as torches or lighters
• High-temperature heat guns
• Boiling water poured directly on pipes

These methods significantly increase the risk of fire or pipe failure.

Check for Leaks After Thawing

Once water flow returns, inspect the pipe carefully.

• Look for dripping or pooling water
• Listen for hissing sounds
• Check surrounding walls or ceilings for moisture

If you notice leaks, shut off the main water supply and contact a plumber immediately.

What If the Pipe Has Burst

A burst pipe requires professional repair. Turn off the main water supply right away and avoid using plumbing fixtures until repairs are complete.

How to Prevent Future Freezing

After thawing, take steps to prevent the problem from happening again.

• Add pipe insulation
• Seal air leaks near plumbing
• Keep indoor temperatures stable
• Schedule a winter plumbing inspection

When to Call a Professional

If you cannot safely access the frozen pipe, if multiple pipes are frozen, or if thawing does not restore water flow, professional plumbing service is the safest solution.

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Start the Year With a Reliable Plumber

The beginning of a new year is a time for planning, organization, and smart decisions. One often overlooked step that can save homeowners and business owners significant stress is having a reliable plumber lined up before a problem occurs. Plumbing emergencies rarely happen at convenient times, and when they do, knowing exactly who to call can make all the difference.

Starting the year with a trusted plumbing professional ensures faster response times, better service, and peace of mind when unexpected issues arise.

Why Plumbing Problems Never Wait

Plumbing systems work every day, often unnoticed, until something goes wrong. January is one of the busiest months for plumbing issues due to freezing temperatures, aging pipes, and increased indoor water use.

Common winter plumbing problems include frozen pipes, burst lines, clogged drains, water heater failures, and sump pump issues. When these problems happen, delays can lead to extensive water damage, higher repair costs, and disruptions to daily life or business operations.

Having a reliable plumber already saved in your phone allows you to act quickly instead of scrambling for help during an emergency.

What Makes a Plumber Reliable

Not all plumbing companies offer the same level of service. A reliable plumber stands out by consistently delivering quality workmanship, clear communication, and dependable scheduling.

Key qualities to look for include proper licensing and insurance, experience with both residential and commercial systems, transparent pricing, and a strong reputation in the local community. A dependable plumbing company also values long term relationships, not just one time repairs.

Choosing a trusted plumber at the start of the year sets the foundation for better service whenever you need it.

The Importance of Preventive Plumbing Care

Reliability is not only about emergencies. A dependable plumber helps you prevent problems before they start. Routine inspections and maintenance can identify small issues such as minor leaks, corrosion, or drainage problems before they turn into major repairs.

Preventive plumbing care helps extend the life of your pipes, fixtures, and water heaters while reducing the likelihood of unexpected breakdowns. Scheduling service early in the year also allows you to plan maintenance during less stressful times.

Residential and Commercial Plumbing Peace of Mind

For homeowners, plumbing issues can quickly disrupt daily routines and cause costly damage to floors, walls, and personal belongings. For businesses, plumbing failures can interrupt operations, impact customers, and lead to lost revenue.

Working with a reliable plumbing company ensures both homes and businesses receive prompt service, clear solutions, and repairs done right the first time. This reliability is especially critical during winter months when plumbing systems are under increased strain.

Save the Number Before You Need It

One of the simplest yet most effective steps you can take is saving your plumber’s phone number now. When an emergency happens, you will not have time to research options, read reviews, or compare services. You will want a trusted professional who already understands your needs and your property.

Starting the year prepared gives you confidence that help is only a phone call away.

Choose Experience You Can Trust

A plumbing company with decades of experience brings knowledge, efficiency, and proven solutions to every job. From routine repairs to emergency service and long term system care, experience matters when protecting your home or business.

Make reliability part of your New Year preparation. Establish a relationship with a trusted plumbing professional and start the year knowing your plumbing is in capable hands.

If you would like, I can also write a second January focused blog that pairs with this topic, such as emergency plumbing preparedness or winter maintenance planning.

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Winter places unique stress on plumbing systems. Freezing temperatures, heavy snow, and sudden thaws can trigger a range of plumbing emergencies. With preparation, homeowners can reduce the risk of damage and feel confident their home is protected when temperatures drop.

Insulate Exposed Pipes

Pipes in unheated areas are most vulnerable during winter. Use foam sleeves or insulation wrap to protect pipes in:

• Basements
• Crawl spaces
• Exterior walls
• Attics

Maintain a Consistent Indoor Temperature

Avoid lowering your thermostat too much at night or while away. Pipes freeze faster when temperatures inside dip below 55 degrees.

Let Faucets Drip During Extreme Cold

A slow drip keeps water moving and reduces pressure buildup inside pipes, lowering the risk of freezing.

Disconnect Outdoor Hoses

Leaving hoses attached can cause ice to form inside exterior faucets, leading to pipe bursts inside the wall.

Know How to Shut Off Your Water

If a pipe bursts, shutting off your main water supply immediately can prevent catastrophic damage. Ensure every household member knows where the valve is located.

Check Your Sump Pump

Pour water into the basin to confirm it activates properly. Winter thaws can overwhelm a failing pump.

Schedule a Professional Inspection

A plumber can spot vulnerabilities you might miss, such as weak pipe joints, minor leaks, and insulation gaps.

Final Thoughts

Winter plumbing emergencies are stressful, but preparation minimizes risks. With a few preventative steps and awareness of your plumbing system, you can protect your home from costly damage throughout the season.

The post Preparing for Winter Plumbing Emergencies: What Homeowners Should Know appeared first on Putman & Son's Plumbing.

When the lights go out, most homeowners think about keeping food cold and staying warm — but your plumbing system also needs attention during a power outage. Without power, certain systems can fail, leading to leaks, backups, or even flooding.

Here’s how to protect your home and plumbing when the power goes out.

1. Protect Your Sump Pump

If your home has a basement, your sump pump is your first line of defense against flooding. But during an outage, it won’t operate without power.
Tip: Install a battery backup or water-powered sump pump. These units automatically activate when power fails and can keep your basement dry.

2. Prevent Frozen Pipes

If a winter storm causes an outage, your heating system might stop working — putting your pipes at risk of freezing.
Tip: Open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air circulate, and let faucets drip slightly to keep water moving.

3. Limit Water Use

If your home relies on a well pump, power loss means no water flow. Limit water use until power returns to avoid running your system dry.

4. Turn Off Electric Water Heaters

When power returns, a sudden surge can damage electric water heaters.
Tip: Turn off your breaker for the water heater during an outage and restore power only once the system stabilizes.

5. Be Cautious with Gas Appliances

If you smell gas or suspect a leak, shut off your main gas supply and call a professional immediately. Never attempt to relight pilot lights yourself until the area is safe.

6. Inspect After the Power Returns

Once electricity is restored, check for leaks, test your sump pump, and flush faucets to clear air pockets or sediment.

Stay Prepared with Putman & Son’s Plumbing

Power outages are unpredictable, but you can protect your home with the right precautions and professional support. Our team installs sump pump backups, insulates pipes, and ensures your plumbing is ready for any emergency.

Serving Macomb, Oakland, and Wayne counties since 1985 — we’re always here to help.

📞 248-652-0990 | 🌐 pnsplumbing.com

The post How to Protect Your Plumbing During a Power Outage appeared first on Putman & Son's Plumbing.

A reliable sump pump is crucial for keeping your basement dry during the spring rains, but like any appliance, it won’t last forever. Recognizing the signs that your sump pump may need replacement can save you from unexpected flooding and costly water damage.

First, pay attention to the age of your sump pump. Most pumps have a lifespan of 7 to 10 years. If yours is nearing or exceeding this age, it might be time for a replacement, even if it seems to be functioning normally. Outdated pumps are more prone to failure during heavy rainstorms when they’re needed most.

Strange noises or frequent cycling are other warning signs. If your sump pump sounds unusually loud or seems to turn on and off repeatedly, it could indicate mechanical issues or a clogged discharge line. These symptoms can reduce its efficiency and increase the risk of pump failure.

Water accumulation in your basement, even after the pump runs, is a critical sign that it may no longer be working effectively. This could be due to a worn-out pump or a motor that’s no longer strong enough to handle the water volume.

Leaks around the pump unit are also cause for concern. Water pooling around your sump pump or signs of rust and corrosion can indicate that internal components are deteriorating. In these cases, continuing to rely on the old pump could result in a sudden and complete failure during a storm.

Regular testing of your sump pump is essential, especially as winter gives way to spring showers. Listen for changes in operation and inspect the unit for visible signs of wear. A proactive approach can help ensure that your basement stays dry when the rains come.

The post Signs Your Sump Pump Needs Replacement Before Spring Showers appeared first on Putman & Son's Plumbing.

Plumbing emergencies can happen anytime, but they’re even more common during winter when freezing temperatures put extra strain on pipes and appliances. Knowing how to handle these situations can prevent major damage and costly repairs.

1. Shut Off the Main Water Supply

If a pipe bursts, turning off your main water supply immediately will minimize water damage. Make sure you and your family know where the shutoff valve is located.

2. Thaw Frozen Pipes Safely

If you suspect a pipe is frozen, use a hairdryer, heating pad, or space heater to gradually warm it up. Never use an open flame, as this can damage the pipe and pose a fire hazard.

3. Prevent Drain Clogs

Grease, soap, and food particles can clog your drains, leading to backups. Avoid pouring grease down the drain, use strainers to catch debris, and flush drains regularly with hot water.

4. Keep the Heat On

Maintaining a steady indoor temperature, even when you’re away, helps prevent frozen pipes. Set your thermostat to at least 55°F to keep your plumbing safe.

5. Have an Emergency Plumber on Call

Plumbing emergencies require quick action, and having a trusted professional ready to help can make all the difference.

The post Emergency Plumbing Tips for Cold Weather appeared first on Putman & Son's Plumbing.

Winter brings freezing temperatures, and with them comes the risk of frozen pipes. When water freezes, it expands, which puts immense pressure on your plumbing. This can lead to cracks or burst pipes, resulting in costly water damage and repairs. Fortunately, you can take proactive steps to prevent frozen pipes and protect your home this winter.

Insulate Your Pipes

One of the most effective ways to prevent frozen pipes is by insulating them, especially those in unheated areas such as attics, basements, and garages. Use foam pipe insulation or heat tape to keep them warm. Even simple measures like wrapping pipes with towels or newspapers can provide some level of protection.

Keep a Steady Indoor Temperature

Maintaining a consistent indoor temperature helps keep your pipes from freezing. Keep your thermostat set to at least 55°F, even when you’re away from home. It’s also a good idea to open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes.

Let Faucets Drip

Allowing faucets to drip slightly during extreme cold helps keep water flowing, reducing the chance of freezing. This is especially important for pipes located along exterior walls or in colder parts of the house.

What to Do If Your Pipes Freeze

If you suspect a pipe has frozen, act quickly. Shut off the main water supply to prevent flooding if the pipe bursts. Use a hairdryer, heating pad, or warm towels to gently thaw the pipe. Never use an open flame, as it can damage the pipe and create a fire hazard.

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Fall and cold weather is around the corner! Though fall includes pumpkin spice, cider mills and beautiful fall leaves, its weather can cause plumbing issues that could make you hate the season. If you reside in an environment where it gets cold, your plumbing system can experience damages that are pricey and frustrating. Putman & Son’s Plumbing has the right advice for you as you prepare for the upcoming cold seasons. Some ways that you can prepare your plumbing for fall and winter include:

Insulating Pipes and Fixing Leaks

A crack is the most harmful threat to plumbing systems. Cracks allow leaks. When there is freezing temperature outside, the leaks can freeze over and potentially cause pipes to burst. Pipes can still freeze even if there is no leak. Insulate your pipes with insulation foam (or other materials) or consult with Putman & Son’s Plumbing to have your pipes replaced.

Sump Pump Maintenance

Sump pump devices keep your basement safe from flooding. Floods are less common in the winter though it is best to prepare it for winter. Without unplugging the device, detach the drain hose through winter and leave it detached until the weather warms up to prevent freezing inside the device. Remove all gunk from device during cleaning. Test device regularly and keep basement in a warm temperature.

Shutoff Outdoor Plumbing

Disconnecting and shutting off outdoor plumbing (sprinklers, water hoses, fountains, etc.) is crucial for preparing your plumbing for cold weather. Doing so will keep your outdoor plumbing equipment from bursting due to frozen waterways. Drain your outdoor waterways to keep your equipment in the best condition.

If you have questions about preparing your plumbing for cold climates, visit www.pnsplumbing.com to connect with a professional plumber.

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We are experiencing frigid temperatures; colder than we have in a generation! Remember not only to keep your body bundled up properly to withstand the elements but provide your pipes special attention to keep them from freezing, particularly those sharing an outside wall. Trickling some water and adding insulation can go a long way in helping during this cold snap. For any plumbing emergency including frozen or bursting pipes, contact Putman & Son’s certified plumbers on our 24/7 emergency hotline.

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