Introduction

Many homeowners assume dishwashers clean themselves, but over time, grease, food particles, and mineral buildup can affect performance. Regular cleaning helps your dishwasher run efficiently and prevents unpleasant odors and drainage problems.

Why Dishwasher Cleaning Matters

Food debris and soap residue accumulate in filters, spray arms, and drain areas. Without cleaning, these materials restrict water flow and reduce cleaning effectiveness. Buildup can also lead to slow draining and foul smells.

Cleaning the Dishwasher Filter

Start by removing the bottom rack to access the filter. Most filters twist or lift out easily. Rinse it under warm water and use a soft brush to remove debris. Avoid harsh scrubbers that can damage the filter.

Cleaning the filter every few months improves water circulation and prevents clogs.

Cleaning Spray Arms and Interior Surfaces

Check spray arms for clogged holes. Use a toothpick or soft brush to remove debris that blocks water flow. Wipe down the interior walls, door seals, and detergent dispenser with a damp cloth and mild cleaner.

Pay special attention to door gaskets, as trapped moisture and debris can cause odors.

Running a Cleaning Cycle

Place a dishwasher safe cup filled with white vinegar on the top rack and run a hot water cycle. Vinegar helps dissolve grease and mineral deposits. For deeper cleaning, follow up with baking soda sprinkled along the bottom and run a short hot cycle.

How Often to Clean Your Dishwasher

Light cleaning every month and deep cleaning every three to six months helps maintain performance. Homes with hard water may need more frequent attention.

When Plumbing Issues Are the Cause

If cleaning does not resolve drainage or odor problems, the issue may involve the drain line or garbage disposal connection. A plumber can inspect and correct underlying plumbing concerns.

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Introduction

Faucet cartridges control water flow and temperature in many modern faucets. When a cartridge wears out, homeowners may notice dripping, reduced water pressure, or difficulty adjusting temperature. Replacing a faulty cartridge is often an effective and affordable repair.

Common Signs a Cartridge Has Failed

A steady drip when the faucet is turned off is the most common sign. Other symptoms include stiff handles, inconsistent water temperature, or water continuing to flow after the handle is closed. Mineral buildup and normal wear are typical causes.

Tools and Preparation

Before starting, identify the faucet brand and model so you can purchase the correct replacement cartridge. Turn off the water supply under the sink and open the faucet to relieve pressure. Basic tools include a screwdriver, adjustable wrench, needle nose pliers, and plumber’s grease.

Step by Step Cartridge Replacement

Remove the decorative cap and handle screw, then lift off the handle. Unscrew the retaining nut and carefully pull the cartridge straight out. Insert the new cartridge in the same orientation, apply a small amount of plumber’s grease, and reassemble the faucet.

Testing the Repair

Slowly turn the water supply back on and test the faucet. Check for leaks and confirm smooth handle movement and proper temperature control.

When DIY Is Not Enough

Older faucets may have cartridges that are seized due to corrosion. Forcing removal can damage the valve body. In these cases, a professional plumber can safely remove the cartridge or recommend faucet replacement if needed.

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One of the most common complaints plumbers hear from homeowners is, “My water stinks.” Whether the smell resembles rotten eggs, sulfur, metal, or mustiness, unpleasant odors coming from your water are never normal. While the issue can be alarming, it is often caused by identifiable and treatable plumbing or water quality problems.

Rotten Egg or Sulfur Smell

A sulfur-like odor is one of the most frequently reported water complaints. This smell is typically caused by hydrogen sulfide gas, which can occur naturally in groundwater or develop inside plumbing systems. In many cases, the smell becomes stronger when hot water is running.

If the odor is only present in hot water, the likely cause is a reaction between bacteria and the anode rod inside the water heater. Replacing the anode rod or flushing the tank often resolves the issue.

Metallic or Rusty Odors

Water that smells metallic or tastes like iron often indicates corroding pipes or high iron content in the water supply. Older homes with aging pipes are especially prone to this issue. Corrosion can also lead to discoloration and reduced pipe lifespan if left unaddressed.

Musty or Earthy Smells

Musty odors are usually linked to organic matter, such as decaying leaves or sediment, entering the water supply. This is more common in well water systems but can also occur in municipal systems after maintenance or heavy rainfall.

Chlorine or Chemical Odors

Strong chlorine smells may occur after municipal water treatment adjustments. While chlorine is used to disinfect water, excessive odor can cause skin irritation and unpleasant taste.

Plumbing-Related Causes

Sometimes the smell isn’t coming from the water itself but from plumbing components. Dry drain traps, bacteria buildup in fixtures, or clogged vents can release sewer-like odors that appear to come from faucets.

How to Identify the Source

A simple way to narrow down the cause is to determine:
• Whether the smell occurs in hot water, cold water, or both
• If the odor is present at all fixtures or only one
• Whether it appeared suddenly or gradually

These clues help plumbers diagnose the problem quickly.

Solutions and Prevention

Depending on the cause, solutions may include:
• Water heater maintenance
• Pipe inspection or replacement
• Water filtration or treatment systems
• Fixture cleaning and trap refilling

Final Thoughts

Unpleasant water odors are more than an inconvenience. They can signal plumbing problems, water quality concerns, or system inefficiencies. Addressing the issue early ensures cleaner water, protects plumbing components, and restores peace of mind.

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A clogged sewer line is one of the most serious plumbing problems a homeowner can face. Unlike a simple sink clog, sewer line blockages affect your entire plumbing system and can quickly lead to backups, property damage, and health concerns. Knowing the early warning signs allows you to act before the problem becomes an emergency.

Multiple Drains Backing Up at Once

One of the most common indicators of a sewer line clog is water backing up in multiple fixtures. If toilets, tubs, and sinks are draining slowly or backing up simultaneously, the issue is likely beyond a single drain.

Gurgling Sounds from Drains

Strange bubbling or gurgling noises coming from toilets or drains often indicate trapped air caused by a blockage in the main sewer line. These sounds usually occur when water is trying to pass through restricted piping.

Sewage Odors Inside or Outside

Persistent sewage smells around floor drains, bathrooms, or your yard can signal a sewer line problem. Odors occur when waste cannot properly flow away from the home.

Water Backing Up in the Lowest Drain

Sewer line clogs often appear first in basement floor drains or lowest-level fixtures. This is a serious sign and should be addressed immediately.

Unusually Lush or Wet Areas in the Yard

If your sewer line runs beneath your lawn, a blockage or break may cause wastewater to seep into the soil, creating soggy patches or unusually green grass.

Common Causes of Sewer Line Clogs

• Tree root intrusion
• Grease and debris buildup
• Flushed wipes and hygiene products
• Collapsed or aging pipes

What to Do If You Suspect a Clog

Avoid running water and contact a licensed plumber right away. Professional inspection tools, such as camera inspections, allow plumbers to locate and resolve the issue without unnecessary digging.

Final Thoughts

Sewer line clogs don’t resolve on their own. Recognizing the signs early protects your home and prevents extensive damage. When symptoms appear, professional service is essential.

The post Signs Your Sewer Line May Be Clogged and What to Do Next appeared first on Putman & Son's Plumbing.

Most homeowners rarely think about their water heater’s temperature setting. Once installed, the system tends to run quietly in the background, providing hot water on demand. However, temperature adjustments can have a meaningful impact on your energy bills, comfort, and safety. Understanding what temperature settings mean—and when to change them—helps you keep your home efficient and protected.

The Importance of Proper Temperature

Most manufacturers recommend setting your water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature provides enough heat to prevent bacteria growth while remaining safe for households with children or elderly residents who may be more vulnerable to scalding.

Temperatures below 120 degrees can allow harmful bacteria, such as Legionella, to grow inside the tank. On the other hand, temperatures set too high increase the risk of burns and waste energy.

When You Should Adjust the Temperature

1. You’re Noticing Inconsistent Hot Water

If your showers suddenly become lukewarm or your dishwasher struggles to clean properly, your water may be too cool. Increasing the temperature slightly can restore performance.

2. Energy Efficiency Concerns

Lowering the temperature by even a few degrees can reduce your energy expenses. Water heating accounts for roughly 18 percent of a home’s total energy use. A modest reduction can make a noticeable difference over time.

3. Household Safety

Homes with young children benefit from keeping temperatures on the lower end of the safe range to prevent accidental scalding. Conversely, households with immune-compromised residents may need a slightly higher temperature to ensure water sanitation.

How to Safely Adjust the Temperature

Always consult your water heater’s manual before making any changes. Electric heaters typically have two thermostats, while gas units use a dial near the base.

Steps to follow:

1. Turn off power to electric heaters before opening panels.
2. Adjust the thermostat in small increments.
3. Allow several hours before testing the water temperature.
4. Use a thermometer at a faucet for accuracy.

If you’re unsure, a licensed plumber can handle the adjustment safely.

Signs Your Water Heater Needs More Than a Temperature Change

If increasing the temperature doesn’t solve your hot water issues, you may be experiencing:

• Sediment buildup
• Failing heating elements
• A deteriorating dip tube
• Aging equipment approaching replacement age

Water heaters typically last 8 to 12 years. If yours is older, an inspection may be more beneficial than a temperature change.

Final Thoughts

Adjusting your water heater temperature can improve comfort, safety, and efficiency—but should be done thoughtfully. With the right setting and periodic maintenance, you can extend your heater’s lifespan and enjoy dependable hot water year-round. When in doubt, call a licensed plumber to evaluate your system and recommend the best temperature for your household.

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Few things are more frustrating than stepping into the shower only to discover the hot water is gone. Whether it happens gradually or all at once, a loss of hot water can signal anything from a simple fix to a larger problem with your plumbing or water heater. Understanding the potential causes helps you determine what you can troubleshoot yourself and what requires professional attention.

Start by Checking Your Water Heater

The most common cause of no hot water in the shower is a problem with your water heater. Before assuming the worst, take a moment to verify the basics.

For gas water heaters:
• Ensure the pilot light is lit.
• Check for a flashing error code.
• Listen for unusual noises that may signal sediment buildup.

For electric water heaters:
• Look for a tripped breaker.
• Inspect for loose electrical connections.
• Consider whether one of the heating elements has failed.

If the water heater is supplying hot water to other fixtures but not the shower, the issue is likely within the shower system rather than the tank.

Check Temperature Settings and Valves

Sometimes the fix is surprisingly simple. Your water heater thermostat may be set too low, especially if someone recently adjusted it. Increase the temperature slightly and allow 30 minutes for the water to heat before testing the shower again.

Additionally, newer homes often have tempering valves installed to regulate scald protection. If these valves fail or shift, they can prevent hot water from reaching certain fixtures.

Sediment and Mineral Buildup

Water heaters naturally collect sediment, especially in areas with hard water. Over time, this sediment forms a thick layer that insulates the heating elements and reduces their efficiency. If your shower gradually lost hot water over weeks or months, sediment buildup may be the culprit.

Flushing the water heater can improve performance, but if sediment buildup is severe, a technician may need to inspect or replace components.

Issues with the Shower Mixing Valve

Inside the shower handle system is a component called the mixing valve. This valve regulates the blend of hot and cold water. When it becomes worn or clogged with mineral deposits, it may fail to allow hot water through, even when the water heater is working properly.

Signs your mixing valve may be the issue include:
• Hot water flows normally from sinks but not in the shower
• The shower temperature fluctuates unpredictably
• Turning the handle doesn’t change temperature as expected

Mixing valve replacement is best handled by a licensed plumber.

Plumbing Cross-Connections

A less common—but possible—cause is a cross-connection between hot and cold water lines. This can force cold water into the hot line, cooling the water before it reaches the shower. This issue typically requires professional diagnosis and repair.

When It’s Time to Call a Plumber

If your troubleshooting hasn’t restored hot water, it’s time to bring in a professional. A plumber can:

• Inspect and repair water heater components
• Replace faulty mixing valves
• Diagnose cross-connection issues
• Evaluate sediment levels
• Identify failing thermostats or heating elements

Final Thoughts

A lack of hot water in the shower is inconvenient but often solvable with clear troubleshooting steps. Whether the issue lies in your water heater, your shower fixtures, or your plumbing system, addressing the problem early prevents bigger headaches. When in doubt, a licensed plumber can diagnose the issue quickly and restore your home’s hot water.

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For many households, coffee is a part of the daily routine. But what happens to the grounds once your cup is brewed? Some people rinse them down the sink, assuming they will break down easily. Unfortunately, coffee grounds are one of the biggest contributors to kitchen drain clogs. Even with a garbage disposal, they can create serious plumbing problems.

Understanding why coffee grounds don’t belong in the sink—and how to dispose of them safely—can save you from slow drains, backups, and expensive repairs.

Why Coffee Grounds Cause Drain Problems

Unlike food scraps that break down in water, coffee grounds don’t dissolve. They bind together, creating a dense, muddy paste that sticks to pipe walls. Over time, this buildup traps grease, soap residue, and other debris, forming stubborn clogs.

Even homes with garbage disposals aren’t safe. Grinding coffee grounds doesn’t make them harmless; it only creates finer particles that clump together more easily.

How Coffee Grounds Affect Your Plumbing System

1. Pipe Blockages

Coffee grounds accumulate over time, narrowing the inside of your pipes until water can no longer flow freely.

2. Garbage Disposal Damage

While they won’t break the blades, coffee grounds can overwhelm the disposal chamber and cause jams or slow grinding.

3. Septic System Stress

In septic systems, solids settle in the tank. Coffee grounds contribute to buildup and can shorten the tank’s lifespan or require more frequent pumping.

Signs Coffee Grounds Have Caused a Problem

• Slow-draining kitchen sink
• Gurgling sounds when water drains
• Foul odors coming from the disposal
• Water backing up in the other side of a double sink

These symptoms indicate buildup somewhere in the drain line.

Safe Ways to Dispose of Coffee Grounds

Trash:
The simplest method—just toss them in the garbage.

Composting:
Coffee grounds enrich compost with nitrogen and improve soil texture. Great for gardens.

Odor Absorbers:
Dried coffee grounds work as natural deodorizer for refrigerators, shoes, and trash cans.

What To Do If Coffee Grounds Have Already Caused a Clog

Start with gentle methods:

1. Flush the drain with hot water
2. Use a mixture of vinegar and baking soda
3. Remove and clean the P-trap under the sink
4. Avoid chemical drain cleaners, which damage pipes

If the clog persists, a professional plumber can clear the line safely.

Final Thoughts

Coffee grounds should never go down the sink, even if you have a disposal. These small particles can cause big plumbing problems over time. By disposing of them properly and maintaining your drains, you’ll keep your kitchen plumbing running smoothly.

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A double kitchen sink is convenient—until water backs up from one side into the other. This messy and frustrating problem is almost always related to a blockage or airflow issue somewhere in the drain system. Understanding the cause helps you know whether to tackle the fix yourself or call a professional.

How a Double Sink Drain System Works

Double sinks share the same drain line. When one side is blocked or partially clogged, water has nowhere to go except into the opposite basin. This backup is a sign that the clog is deeper than just the surface.

Common Causes of Sink Backup

1. A Clog in the Shared Drain Line

Food particles, grease, coffee grounds, and soap buildup often create clogs in the section where the pipes join. Because both sink bowls share the same pipe, a clog sends water backward.

2. Grease Buildup

Pouring oil or grease down the sink—even in small amounts—causes thick buildup that traps debris. This is one of the most common culprits behind drainage issues.

3. Garbage Disposal Problems

If one side has a disposal, a jammed or clogged disposal can push water to the other side. Sometimes, the disposal impeller is stuck or the housing is blocked.

4. Airflow or Venting Issues

Plumbing vents allow air into the system so water can drain smoothly. If the vent is blocked, clogged, or improperly installed, water may gurgle or back up into the opposite sink bowl.

5. P-Trap Blockages

The curved pipe under the sink catches debris. When blocked, it slows drainage for the entire sink system.

How to Fix the Backup

Try These Steps First:

1. Run the garbage disposal to break up soft clogs.
2. Use boiling water to help melt grease buildup.
3. Use a plunger on each side of the sink to loosen blockages.
4. Check and clean the P-trap by removing it and clearing debris.

If these steps don’t work, the clog is further down the line.

Avoid Drain Cleaners

Chemical cleaners damage pipes over time and usually don’t dissolve serious clogs. They also create hazards for plumbers working on your pipes later.

When to Call a Plumber

You need professional help if:

• Both sides back up consistently
• Water is slow to drain after multiple attempts
• The disposal hums but doesn’t run
• You hear gurgling noises (sign of vent blockage)
• Water backs up even when nothing is running

A plumber can clear deep clogs, inspect vents, and ensure the entire system is flowing correctly.

Preventing Future Backups

• Never pour grease down the drain
• Use sink strainers
• Run hot water after using the disposal
• Clean the P-trap occasionally
• Schedule periodic drain maintenance

Final Thoughts

A double sink backing up into the other side is a clear sign of a drainage issue deeper in the system. With the right troubleshooting steps, you can often identify the cause and prevent future clogs. If backups continue, a professional plumber can clear the line and help restore smooth drainage.

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A frozen AC pipe is one of the most common cooling system issues homeowners face during summer. While it may seem confusing—after all, how can something freeze when it’s hot outside?—a frozen pipe is usually a sign that your air conditioner is struggling. If not handled properly, it can lead to expensive repairs or even system failure. Understanding the cause and knowing what to do can help protect your AC and keep your home comfortable.

Why AC Pipes Freeze

Your air conditioner works by cycling refrigerant through the evaporator coil. When airflow is restricted or refrigerant levels drop, the coil gets too cold. Moisture in the air then freezes on the pipe, creating frost or thick ice.

The most common causes include:

• Dirty air filters
• Low refrigerant levels
• Blocked return vents
• Dirty evaporator coil
• Poor airflow through the duct system
• Running the AC in very cool outdoor temperatures

Each of these issues prevents your system from maintaining a normal temperature balance.

Step 1: Turn Off Your AC Immediately

The first thing you should do when you notice a frozen AC pipe is shut the system off. Running the AC while frozen can cause the compressor to overwork, which is one of the most expensive repairs to face.

Switch the thermostat from “Cool” to “Off.”
If possible, turn the fan setting to “On” to help move warm air over the coil.

Step 2: Let the System Thaw Completely

It may take several hours for the ice to melt. Do not attempt to break the ice manually—this can damage the pipes and coil.

Place towels or a small container near the air handler to catch any dripping water.

Step 3: Check for Common Airflow Problems

Once everything is thawed, start with the simplest fixes:

Replace the Air Filter

A clogged air filter restricts airflow and is the number one cause of frozen AC pipes.

Open All Return and Supply Vents

Even closing a few vents can disrupt airflow enough to cause freezing.

Check for Obstructed Airflow

Furniture pushed against returns or blocked ducts reduce system efficiency.

Step 4: Restart the System Carefully

After thawing and checking airflow:

1. Set the thermostat to “Fan” for 30 minutes
2. Turn the AC back to “Cool” afterward and observe
3. If frost returns, turn the system off and call a professional

Step 5: Signs You Need a Professional

Some issues require expert diagnosis, especially:

• Low refrigerant
• Refrigerant leaks
• Dirty evaporator coil
• Blower motor failure
• Duct airflow imbalance

Refrigerant work must legally be done by licensed professionals.

How to Prevent Freezing in the Future

• Replace air filters every 1 to 3 months
• Clean return vents regularly
• Schedule yearly AC maintenance
• Avoid running the AC when outdoor temps are below 65 degrees
• Keep vents open throughout the home

Final Thoughts

A frozen AC pipe is usually a symptom of restricted airflow or refrigerant problems. By shutting off the system, thawing it carefully, and checking basic airflow issues, you can often resolve the problem quickly. If the issue persists, a professional HVAC technician can diagnose the root cause and prevent long-term damage.

The post What To Do When Your AC Pipe Freezes appeared first on Putman & Son's Plumbing.

Hard water is a common issue for homeowners, especially in areas with mineral-rich groundwater. While hard water isn’t harmful to drink, it can create a wide range of problems for your plumbing system, appliances, skin, and laundry. The sooner you identify hard water in your home, the sooner you can take steps to treat it and protect your plumbing.

What Makes Water “Hard”?

Hard water contains elevated levels of minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium. As water travels through the ground, it absorbs these minerals naturally. While they are safe, they leave behind residue that builds up in pipes, fixtures, and appliances over time.

1. White or Chalky Buildup on Faucets and Fixtures

One of the most visible signs of hard water is mineral scale. This appears as:

• White, chalky crust around faucet bases
• Hard residue on showerheads
• Spots or cloudy marks on stainless steel

These mineral deposits indicate high levels of calcium and magnesium in your water.

2. Soap Scum and Difficulty Creating Lather

Hard water reduces the effectiveness of soap. If you notice:

• Soap scum in tubs and sinks
• Shampoo that doesn’t lather easily
• Dull or filmy feeling on skin after showering

It’s a strong indication of mineral-heavy water.

3. Dry Skin, Itchy Scalp, and Stiff Hair

The minerals in hard water strip away natural oils from your skin and hair. Over time, this leads to dryness, irritation, and a rough texture in hair.

4. Appliances Wearing Out Faster

Water heaters, dishwashers, and washing machines suffer when exposed to hard water. Mineral scale builds inside the appliances, reducing efficiency and shortening lifespan. If your water heater makes popping noises, sediment is likely the cause.

5. Faded Laundry and Scratchy Clothing

Hard water interferes with detergent performance. Clothes may come out looking:

• Faded
• Rough
• Stiff
• Dingy despite being clean

Over time, fabrics break down faster.

6. Low Water Pressure from Scale Buildup

Minerals accumulate inside pipes and gradually narrow the flow path. If you experience unexplained low water pressure—especially in older homes—hard water may be the cause.

7. Water Test Confirms High Mineral Levels

The most accurate way to confirm hard water is by testing it. Home test kits are available, and professional plumbers can perform more detailed analysis. Water hardness is measured in grains per gallon (gpg). Anything above 7 gpg is considered hard.

How to Fix Hard Water

The most effective solution is installing a water softener. These systems remove excess minerals and protect:

• Fixtures
• Appliances
• Clothing
• Water heaters
• Pipes

A water softener improves water feel, reduces scale, and lowers energy costs by helping appliances run more efficiently.

Final Thoughts

Hard water is common, but it doesn’t have to damage your home. Recognizing the signs early allows you to take action before mineral buildup causes costly plumbing issues. A professional plumber can help test your water and recommend the best softening solution for long-term protection.

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