Water quality has a bigger impact on your plumbing than most homeowners realize. Minerals, chemicals, and impurities in your water can corrode pipes, reduce efficiency, and even cause early appliance failure. Understanding how water quality affects your home is key to maintaining a reliable plumbing system.

Hard Water: The Silent Culprit

Hard water is one of the most common plumbing problems in Michigan. It contains high levels of calcium and magnesium, which form scale inside pipes, faucets, and appliances.

Over time, this buildup restricts water flow, reduces pressure, and forces appliances like dishwashers and water heaters to work harder — increasing energy bills.

How It Damages Appliances

Hard water doesn’t just affect pipes — it takes a toll on your appliances too:

• Water heaters: Sediment buildup reduces heating efficiency and can lead to failure.
• Dishwashers and washing machines: Scale deposits clog internal lines and spray arms.
• Coffee makers and ice machines: Mineral deposits impact taste and performance.

The result? Shorter appliance life and higher maintenance costs.

Chlorine and Chemicals in Tap Water

City-treated water often contains chlorine and other disinfectants to kill bacteria. While necessary for safety, these chemicals can dry out rubber seals, corrode metal parts, and cause unpleasant odors.

Filtered water protects your plumbing and provides fresher, better-tasting water for your family.

The Benefits of Water Filtration or Softening

Installing a whole-home water softener or filtration system is the best way to improve water quality and protect your plumbing. These systems:

• Remove hardness minerals that cause buildup
• Reduce chlorine, lead, and other contaminants
• Extend the lifespan of appliances and fixtures
• Improve taste and clarity of water

A filtration system pays for itself over time through lower repair costs and increased efficiency.

Signs You Have Poor Water Quality

• White or chalky residue on faucets
• Low water pressure
• Cloudy or bad-tasting water
• Frequent repairs to water-using appliances

If you notice these issues, it’s time for a professional water test.

Get Cleaner, Healthier Water

At Putman & Son’s Plumbing, we provide expert water testing, filtration installation, and maintenance services throughout Macomb, Oakland, and Wayne counties. We’ll help you find the perfect solution to protect your home and your plumbing.

📞 248-652-0990 | 🌐 pnsplumbing.com

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As temperatures drop, your plumbing system works overtime — and so does your utility bill. The good news is that energy-efficient plumbing upgrades can help you cut costs while keeping your home comfortable and sustainable all winter long.

1. Install a Tankless Water Heater

Traditional water heaters keep gallons of water hot 24/7, wasting energy even when you’re not using it. Tankless water heaters heat water only when you need it, reducing energy consumption by up to 30%. They also last longer (around 20 years) and take up less space.

2. Replace Old Fixtures with Low-Flow Options

Faucets, showerheads, and toilets have come a long way in efficiency. Low-flow fixtures reduce water usage without sacrificing performance.

• Low-flow showerheads: Save up to 2,700 gallons of water annually.
• Dual-flush toilets: Offer full or partial flush options for water savings.
• Aerated faucets: Combine air with water for high pressure and low consumption.

3. Insulate Pipes for Efficiency

When water travels through cold pipes, it loses heat — forcing your water heater to work harder. Insulating pipes in basements, crawl spaces, and attics helps retain heat, reduces energy waste, and prevents freezing during cold snaps.

4. Install Smart Leak Detectors

Wi-Fi-enabled leak detectors send real-time alerts to your phone if they sense water where it shouldn’t be. Early detection means smaller repairs and less wasted water.

5. Upgrade to an Efficient Dishwasher or Washing Machine

New Energy Star appliances use 30–50% less water and energy than older models. The result? Lower bills and a lighter environmental footprint.

6. Routine Maintenance = Energy Savings

A neglected water heater or clogged drain makes your system work harder. Annual maintenance ensures your plumbing runs at peak performance and helps spot issues before they cause costly damage.

Save Money and Energy This Winter

Eco-friendly plumbing isn’t just good for the planet — it’s smart for your wallet, too. Whether it’s upgrading to efficient fixtures or installing a new tankless system, Putman & Son’s Plumbing can help you make sustainable choices that pay off year after year.

Contact us at (248) 652-0990 or visit pnsplumbing.com to learn about energy-efficient upgrades for your home.

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Saluting the dedication and hard work of workers everywhere. Happy Labor Day!

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As the new school year approaches, it’s essential to ensure that your school’s plumbing system is in top condition. A well-maintained plumbing system not only provides a safe and comfortable environment for students and staff but also helps avoid costly repairs and disruptions during the academic year.

Why Regular Plumbing Inspections Are Crucial

Preventative Maintenance: Regular plumbing inspections help identify and fix minor issues before they become major problems. This proactive approach can prevent unexpected plumbing emergencies that could disrupt the school schedule and require costly repairs.

Health and Safety: Ensuring that the plumbing system is functioning correctly is vital for the health and safety of everyone in the school. Leaks, mold growth, and water contamination can pose significant health risks, making it crucial to address any plumbing issues promptly.

Efficient Water Use: A well-maintained plumbing system ensures efficient water use, reducing wastage and lowering utility bills. This is particularly important for schools looking to manage their budgets effectively.

Key Areas to Check

1. Restrooms: Check all toilets, sinks, and urinals for leaks, clogs, and proper functioning. Ensure that the fixtures are in good condition and that there are no signs of water damage or mold.
2. Water Heaters: Inspect water heaters for any signs of wear and tear, leaks, or inefficiency. Ensure they are set to the appropriate temperature to provide safe and adequate hot water for the school.
3. Drinking Fountains: Test all drinking fountains to ensure they are delivering clean and safe drinking water. Check for proper water flow and cleanliness.
4. Pipes and Drains: Inspect all visible pipes and drains for leaks, corrosion, and blockages. Ensure that the drainage system is functioning correctly to prevent flooding and water damage.
5. Kitchen Areas: In schools with kitchens, check all sinks, dishwashers, and other appliances for proper operation. Ensure that grease traps and drains are clean and functioning well.

Benefits of Professional Plumbing Inspections

Expert Assessment: Professional plumbers have the expertise to identify potential issues that might be overlooked during a basic inspection. They can provide comprehensive assessments and recommend necessary repairs or upgrades.

Compliance with Regulations: Schools must comply with various health and safety regulations. Professional plumbers ensure that your plumbing system meets all required standards, helping you avoid potential fines and legal issues.

Peace of Mind: Knowing that your school’s plumbing system has been thoroughly inspected and maintained by professionals provides peace of mind, allowing you to focus on providing a safe and conducive learning environment.

Schedule Your Inspection Today

At Putman & Son’s Plumbing, we specialize in providing comprehensive plumbing inspections and maintenance services for schools. Our experienced team is dedicated to ensuring that your plumbing system is ready for the new academic year, helping you avoid disruptions and maintain a healthy environment. Ensure a smooth start to the school year with a reliable plumbing system. Trust Putman & Son’s Plumbing for all your plumbing needs.

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Many tri-county Michiganders just ran to their basements to see if it was still dry. Don’t stress out, contact Putman & Son’s Plumbing. We can install back flow valves. Back flow valves are very effective to help keep back flow in the sewers and out of your basements. Need a new sump pump? We have that too, warranty included.

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You may be surprised to find that a lot of debris goes down the shower drain. Over time, this can build up, causing a slow moving drain. There are a few things you can try at home to stop this common plumbing problem.

Unclog By Hand

As long as the blockage isn’t deeper in your sewer system, you may be able to clear it by hand. To do this, remove the stopper. Find a piece of wire and bend the end with pliers to form a hook. Slide into the drain and use the hook to lift away tangled hair and debris. Have a utility knife on hand in case you have trouble getting all of the hair out. Once the drain is clear, remove the wire and replace the stopper.

Use Hot Water

A simple household solution to a slow moving shower drain is hot water, vinegar, and baking soda. This method should only be used on drains that are fitted with CPVC pipes. Boiling water can damage PVC pipes.

Pour a cup of baking soda down the drain. Then pour in two cups of boiling water. Let it work for five minutes before adding a combination of baking soda and vinegar. Next, pour baking soda and vinegar into the drain and replace the stopper. Let it sit while the mixture foams. After it has had adequate time to work, pour a cup of boiling water down the drain.

Do Not Use a Drain Cleaner

There are many commercially-made drain cleaner products available at home improvement and grocery stores. If you have frequent drain problems, it is best to contact a certified plumber to evaluate your system rather than using harsh chemicals that can do further damage. Contact Putman and Son’s Plumbing today.

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