Why Frozen Pipes Are a Serious Issue in Macomb County

In Macomb County, freezing temperatures can arrive quickly and stay longer than expected. When pipes freeze, the water inside expands, putting pressure on the pipe walls. This pressure can cause cracks or bursts, often hidden behind walls or under floors. Many homeowners do not realize damage has occurred until water starts leaking days or weeks later.

That is why frozen pipes should always be taken seriously and inspected properly to avoid long term issues.

Common Signs Your Pipes May Be Frozen

Frozen pipes are not always obvious. Some warning signs include:

• Little or no water coming from faucets
• Frost forming on exposed pipes
• Strange odors coming from drains
• Pipes that appear bulged or misshapen

If you notice any of these signs during cold weather, it is important to act quickly and contact a professional plumber.

Step One: Shut Off the Water Immediately

If you believe a pipe is frozen, shut off your main water supply right away. This helps reduce pressure in the system and lowers the risk of a pipe bursting once thawing begins.

Knowing where your shutoff valve is located before an emergency can prevent serious water damage.

Step Two: Open Faucets to Relieve Pressure

Open the faucet connected to the frozen pipe. This allows water to escape as the ice melts and reduces pressure inside the pipe. Keep the faucet open during the thawing process.

Step Three: Thaw Pipes Safely

Gradual warming is the safest approach. You can use:

• A hair dryer
• Warm towels wrapped around the pipe
• A space heater placed nearby

Always start thawing near the faucet and move slowly toward the frozen section. Never use open flames or high heat devices, as these can damage pipes and create fire hazards.

Why You Should Call Putman & Son’s Plumbing Even If Pipes Thaw

Even if water flow returns, freezing can weaken pipes internally. Small cracks may not leak right away but can fail later, causing hidden water damage. This is why it is strongly recommended to contact Putman & Son’s Plumbing after a freeze.

Their experienced team can inspect your plumbing system, check for stress damage, and make sure there are no long term risks. This extra step can save homeowners in Macomb County from costly repairs down the road.

What to Do If a Pipe Bursts

If a pipe bursts, shut off the water immediately and open faucets to drain remaining water. Clean up standing water if it is safe to do so and call Putman & Son’s Plumbing right away.

Burst pipes can damage walls, flooring, cabinets, and personal belongings quickly. Fast response is critical to limiting damage.

Pipes Most at Risk During Freezing Weather

Certain areas are more vulnerable, including:

• Pipes in basements and crawl spaces
• Plumbing along exterior walls
• Garage and outdoor water lines
• Under sink plumbing in unheated areas

Putman & Son’s Plumbing can help identify high risk areas and recommend preventative solutions.

How to Prevent Frozen Pipes in the Future

Preventative steps include:

• Insulating exposed pipes
• Sealing air leaks near plumbing
• Keeping cabinet doors open
• Allowing faucets to drip during extreme cold
• Maintaining consistent indoor temperatures

A professional plumbing inspection can also help identify weaknesses before freezing temperatures return.

Protect Your Home From Long Term Plumbing Damage

Frozen pipes are more than a short term inconvenience. Without proper inspection, they can lead to hidden leaks and long term structural damage.

If your pipes freeze or you suspect cold weather damage, contacting Putman & Son’s Plumbing in Macomb County ensures your plumbing system is safe, secure, and protected for the future.

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Why Frozen Pipes Are a Serious Winter Problem

Frozen pipes are one of the most common and costly plumbing issues during winter. When temperatures drop, water inside pipes can freeze, expand, and create pressure that leads to cracks or full pipe bursts. Knowing how to recognize frozen pipes early can help prevent extensive water damage and emergency repairs.

Common Signs Your Pipes May Be Frozen

Frozen pipes often show warning signs before major damage occurs. Paying attention to these indicators can save time, money, and stress.

Little or No Water Flow

If you turn on a faucet and only a trickle of water comes out, or nothing at all, there may be ice blocking the pipe. This often happens in exterior walls, basements, crawl spaces, or under sinks near outside walls.

Frost on Exposed Pipes

Visible frost or ice buildup on exposed pipes is a clear sign that freezing has already started. This is common in unheated areas like garages or utility rooms.

Strange Smells From Drains or Faucets

When pipes freeze, odors can become trapped behind the ice blockage. If you notice unusual smells coming from a drain or faucet, frozen pipes could be the cause.

Unusual Noises

Banging, whistling, or gurgling sounds when you turn on water can indicate pressure buildup caused by ice inside the pipe.

Areas Most at Risk for Frozen Pipes

Certain locations in your home are more vulnerable during cold weather.

• Pipes in exterior walls
• Basements and crawl spaces
• Garages and utility rooms
• Under kitchen and bathroom sinks
• Outdoor spigots and hose bibs

Homes with poor insulation or older plumbing systems face a higher risk.

Why Frozen Pipes Are Dangerous

The real danger often happens after the pipe thaws. As ice melts, cracks or weak points can release large amounts of water into walls, ceilings, and floors. This can lead to structural damage, mold growth, and costly repairs.

What To Do If You Suspect Frozen Pipes

If you believe a pipe is frozen, act quickly but carefully.

• Keep the faucet open slightly to relieve pressure
• Avoid using open flames to warm pipes
• Turn off the main water supply if you suspect a burst
• Call a professional plumber for safe inspection and repair

Preventing Frozen Pipes in the Future

Prevention is always easier than repair.

• Insulate exposed pipes
• Keep cabinet doors open during extreme cold
• Maintain indoor temperatures consistently
• Winterize outdoor plumbing before freezing weather

When to Call a Professional Plumber

If you cannot locate the frozen pipe, if multiple fixtures are affected, or if you see signs of a burst pipe, professional service is essential. Experienced plumbers can safely identify and resolve the issue before further damage occurs.

The post How to Tell If Your Pipes Are Frozen appeared first on Putman & Son's Plumbing.

Frozen pipes are one of the most damaging winter plumbing issues homeowners face. When water freezes, it expands and creates extreme pressure inside the pipe, leading to cracks or full bursts. Preventing frozen pipes is essential for avoiding flooding, repairs, and major water damage.

Why Pipes Freeze

Pipes freeze when they are exposed to cold air, typically in:

• Crawl spaces
• Basements
• Attics
• Exterior walls
• Under sinks
• Outdoor hose bibs

Understanding where pipes are most vulnerable helps you protect them.

Steps to Prevent Frozen Pipes

1. Insulate Exposed Pipes

Foam insulation sleeves prevent heat loss and protect vulnerable areas.

2. Seal Drafts and Openings

Cold air entering through gaps can quickly lower pipe temperatures.

3. Keep a Slow Drip on Cold Nights

Running water prevents freezing by relieving pressure inside pipes.

4. Open Cabinet Doors

This allows warm air from the room to circulate around under-sink pipes.

5. Disconnect Outdoor Hoses

Water trapped in hose bibs can freeze and damage interior plumbing.

6. Maintain Indoor Temperatures

Keep your home above 55 degrees, even when you’re away.

7. Install Heat Tape

Electric heat tape helps protect extremely vulnerable pipes.

What to Do If Pipes Are Already Frozen

• Turn off the main water supply
• Open faucets to relieve pressure
• Use gentle heat like a hair dryer
• Never use an open flame

If you can’t locate the frozen section, call a plumber immediately.

Final Thoughts

Frozen pipes are preventable with the right preparation. Protecting vulnerable areas and maintaining warm airflow reduces the risk of damage and keeps your home safe throughout winter.

The post How to Prevent Frozen Pipes During Winter appeared first on Putman & Son's Plumbing.

Winter Puts Unique Stress on Your Plumbing System

As temperatures drop in Michigan, your plumbing system faces conditions it simply doesn’t encounter during the rest of the year. Cold air, fluctuating temperatures, increased indoor water use, and hidden vulnerabilities can combine to create serious plumbing issues. That’s why winter has become one of the most important seasons for homeowners to schedule inspections and perform preventative care.

Frozen Pipes Are a Top Winter Threat

Frozen pipes are one of the most frequently reported plumbing emergencies during winter. When water freezes, it expands, putting immense pressure on the pipe. Even a small blockage can cause cracking, rupturing, or full pipe bursts. These events often lead to flooding, structural damage, and costly repairs.

A professional inspection can identify areas at high risk for freezing, such as exposed pipes, crawlspaces, or poorly insulated walls. Simple solutions—like insulation sleeves, heat cables, or sealing drafts—can prevent thousands of dollars in damage.

Increased Indoor Water Use Creates More Strain

Winter keeps families indoors, and that automatically puts more pressure on plumbing systems. More showers, more cooking, more laundry, and more flushing all add up. Water heaters work harder, drains see more activity, and older systems may struggle under the added demand.

An inspection helps ensure everything is performing well and not approaching failure, especially components like water heaters or aging pipes.

Cold Weather Can Expose Existing Weak Points

Small leaks, loose fittings, aging valves, and corrosion often go unnoticed until temperatures drop. Cold air causes metal pipes to contract, which can worsen existing vulnerabilities. Even a pinhole leak can become a major issue in freezing conditions.

Winter inspections can identify these hidden problems early and prevent weekend or holiday emergencies when repairs are harder to schedule.

Winter Is When Sump Pump Systems Are Most Overlooked

While homeowners usually associate sump pumps with spring rain, winter plays its part too. Melting snow, shifting soil, frozen discharge lines, and sudden thaws can all overload or disable sump pump systems. A frozen sump pump line is a common cause of midwinter basement floods.

A simple winter check ensures your sump pump is ready for unexpected melt events and heavy moisture months ahead.

Peace of Mind During the Coldest Months

Professional inspections offer more than safety—they offer peace of mind. Winter is one of the most unpredictable seasons for plumbing failures, and a proactive approach ensures your home is protected. Avoiding emergency service calls not only saves money, but also prevents disruptions during family gatherings and holidays.

Final Thoughts

Scheduling a winter plumbing inspection is one of the smartest moves a homeowner can make. With the right preparation and expert guidance, you can prevent emergencies, extend the life of your system, and enjoy a safer, more comfortable winter season.

The post Why Winter Is the Most Important Time to Inspect Your Plumbing appeared first on Putman & Son's Plumbing.

Don’t Let Freezing Weather Damage Your Plumbing

Michigan winters are no joke — freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on your home’s plumbing system. When water freezes inside your pipes, it expands, creating pressure that can cause pipes to burst. The result? Costly repairs, water damage, and major inconvenience.

Fortunately, with a few preventive steps, you can keep your plumbing protected all season long. Follow this winter plumbing checklist from the experts at Putman & Son’s Plumbing to prepare your home before the deep freeze sets in.

1. Insulate Exposed Pipes

Pipes in unheated areas — such as basements, attics, crawl spaces, and garages — are most vulnerable to freezing. Use foam pipe insulation or heat tape to keep them warm.

For outdoor plumbing, insulate spigots and hose bibbs using weatherproof covers. These simple materials are affordable and can save you thousands in potential water damage.

2. Disconnect and Drain Outdoor Hoses

Before the first frost, disconnect all outdoor hoses and drain any remaining water. Leaving hoses attached can trap water in the faucet and supply line, increasing the risk of frozen or burst pipes.

Also, shut off and drain water to exterior spigots from your home’s main valve.

3. Check for Leaks and Weak Spots

Even a small leak can become a big problem when temperatures drop. Inspect under sinks, around toilets, and near your water heater for moisture, corrosion, or drips.

Fixing leaks early ensures water won’t freeze, expand, or cause pressure buildup in your pipes.

4. Keep a Consistent Indoor Temperature

Even if you’re away for the holidays, never let your home’s temperature drop below 55°F (13°C). Maintaining steady warmth throughout your home helps prevent interior pipes — especially those in exterior walls — from freezing.

Open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air circulate around pipes.

5. Seal Drafts and Cold Air Leaks

Cold air entering through gaps or cracks can freeze nearby plumbing. Inspect areas around windows, doors, vents, and where pipes enter walls. Seal any openings with caulk or insulation to block chilly drafts.

This not only protects pipes but also helps your heating system run more efficiently.

6. Let Faucets Drip on Frigid Nights

During extreme cold, let a few faucets run at a slow trickle — especially those on exterior walls or far from the water heater. Moving water is less likely to freeze, and the slight flow helps relieve pressure inside pipes.

7. Test Your Sump Pump

If your sump pump fails during a winter storm or power outage, your basement could flood. Test your sump pump before the season begins to ensure it’s working properly. Consider installing a battery backup system for peace of mind.

8. Know Where Your Main Shut-Off Valve Is

If a pipe bursts, shutting off the main water supply quickly can minimize damage. Make sure everyone in your household knows where the shut-off valve is located and how to operate it.

Label it clearly for easy access in an emergency.

9. Schedule a Professional Plumbing Inspection

Before winter hits, have your plumbing system inspected by a licensed professional. At Putman & Son’s Plumbing, we’ll check your home for potential risks, insulate vulnerable areas, and ensure everything is ready for the cold.

A professional inspection is the best way to avoid surprises — and expensive repairs — when temperatures plunge.

Stay Warm, Stay Protected

A little preparation goes a long way in preventing frozen or burst pipes. With over 35 years of experience, Putman & Son’s Plumbing proudly serves Macomb, Oakland, and Wayne counties with trusted, year-round service.

From emergency repairs to winterization, our team is here to keep your home safe, warm, and running smoothly.

📞 Call 248-652-0990 or visit 🌐 www.pnsplumbing.com to schedule your winter plumbing checkup today.

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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.

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.

The post How to Prevent Frozen Pipes This Winter appeared first on Putman & Son's Plumbing.

Don’t Fall for These Common Plumbing Misconceptions

Winter weather often leads to a flurry of plumbing advice, but not all of it is accurate. Let’s separate fact from fiction to help you protect your home.

Myth 1: Dripping Faucets Prevent Frozen Pipes
Truth: While a dripping faucet can reduce pressure in the system, it doesn’t fully prevent freezing. Insulating pipes is a more reliable method.

Myth 2: You Don’t Need to Worry About Outdoor Faucets Once Disconnected
Truth: Even with hoses removed, outdoor faucets can freeze. Install frost-proof spigots or cover them with insulated covers for added protection.

Myth 3: Water Heaters Don’t Need Attention in Winter
Truth: Water heaters work harder in cold months. Flushing sediment and inspecting the unit ensures it operates efficiently.

Myth 4: Boiling Water Always Clears Clogged Drains
Truth: In winter, cold pipes can cause fats and oils to harden, making boiling water ineffective. Use enzyme-based cleaners instead.

By knowing what advice to follow, you can avoid common winter plumbing pitfalls and keep your system running smoothly.

The post Winter Plumbing Myths Debunked: What You Really Need to Know appeared first on Putman & Son's Plumbing.

We are in the thick of winter here in Michigan. Be sure that you have prepared your home for the deep freeze that we know all too well. Unfortunately, we visit homes that haven’t had the necessary precautions taken. Here are a few tips to ensure your home is ready.

1. Remove hoses from outdoor faucets – if water remains in the hose, it can freeze and expand and cause your pipes to burst.
2. Keep your pipes warm – if you have pipes in a colder part of your home, including a crawl space or a basement, consider wrapping them with heat tape.
3. Seal any holes – take a look around your home and identify any holes or cracks. Use foam insulation to fill the gaps and prevent cold air from getting in.
4. Check your furnace – make sure your furnace is in good shape before the cold hits. Biannual maintenance for your furnace is a great idea to ensure it works when you need it most.

We hope the tips above will help keep you and your family warm and ready for the cold temperatures. If you require plumbing services, contact our experts today!

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Winter is fast approaching, and it is time to get your house in order. Once you complete your home decor, preparing your plumbing should be next on the list. At Putman and Sons we have a few fixes that we recommend to our customers to ensure their plumbing is ready for cold temperatures.

Turn Off Outdoor Faucets

Be sure to drain and turn off all outdoor faucets. This quick act helps prevent any water from freezing in the pipes leading to a pipe burst. You will want to remove any hoses or connections and store them elsewhere. Make sure to verify that there is no water left in the pipes by turning the faucet to full strength and then turning it off completely.

Check The Water Heater

Maintenance is important all year round, but a failed water heater is even more unfortunate during the colder months. Give Putman and Sons a call to schedule maintenance on your water heater before the temperatures drop. Our team will ensure it is running effectively and identify any potential issues and conduct any necessary repairs.

Insulate Your Pipes

Insulate any cold pipes before the cold weather hits. Consider wrapping any outdoor pipes or those in poorly insulated areas to avoid bursting. Check your attic or crawl spaces for any pipe that should be wrapped.

Check for Leaks

Before the snow falls, take a look around the exterior of your home. Check for any cracks or existing leaks. You’ll want to seal up any cracks to ensure that cold air cannot get in.   The team at Putman and Sons is well-versed in preparing your home for the cold weather. We are ready to visit your home and take a look at the best ways to ensure plumbing safety during the winter. Give us a call today.

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