Your garbage disposal is one of the hardest-working appliances in your kitchen — but it’s also one of the most neglected. Without proper care, it can become clogged, dull, or smelly. Here’s how to keep it clean, efficient, and odor-free all year long.

1. Use It Correctly

Avoid dumping everything down the drain. Stick to soft foods and small scraps. Avoid:

• Grease and oils (they solidify and clog pipes)
• Fibrous foods like celery or corn husks
• Coffee grounds, eggshells, and bones

These items can damage blades, jam the motor, or create blockages.

2. Run Cold Water

Always run cold water before, during, and after using your disposal. Cold water helps solidify grease, allowing the blades to chop it up before it can coat your pipes.

3. Clean It Naturally

To fight odors, grind up small citrus peels like lemon or orange. You can also use a mix of baking soda and vinegar — let it fizz for a few minutes, then rinse with hot water. This removes buildup and deodorizes naturally.

4. Sharpen the Blades

Drop a handful of ice cubes into the disposal and run it for 30 seconds. The ice helps sharpen blades and remove stuck-on residue.

5. Perform Routine Maintenance

Every few weeks, inspect your disposal for unusual noises or slow draining. If it jams, never reach inside — use a hex wrench underneath the unit to manually free the blades.

When to Call a Professional

If your garbage disposal is making grinding noises, leaking, or not turning on, it may need repair or replacement. A professional plumber can diagnose electrical issues, replace worn seals, and ensure safe operation.

Trust Putman & Son’s Plumbing

At Putman & Son’s Plumbing, we’ve been helping Michigan homeowners keep their kitchens running smoothly for over 35 years. From disposal repairs to full kitchen plumbing services, we’re here to help — quickly and professionally.

248-652-0990 | 🌐 pnsplumbing.com

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Clean, safe water is something every homeowner deserves. Even if your tap water looks clear, it can still contain minerals, chemicals, and impurities that affect taste, health, and plumbing performance. A whole-home water filtration system is one of the best investments you can make for your home and family.

1. Healthier, Safer Water

Municipal water treatment removes many contaminants, but trace amounts of chlorine, lead, pesticides, and other pollutants can remain. A filtration system provides an added layer of protection, removing impurities before they reach your tap.

Families with children or sensitive skin especially benefit from reduced exposure to chemicals and heavy metals.

2. Better Taste and Odor

Filtered water tastes cleaner and fresher. By removing chlorine and sulfur, it eliminates that “chemical” taste or odor that sometimes comes from city water systems. You’ll notice the difference immediately — especially in coffee, tea, and cooking.

3. Longer-Lasting Appliances

Hard water contains minerals that build up in pipes and appliances like dishwashers, water heaters, and washing machines. This buildup shortens their lifespan and reduces efficiency.

Filtration systems reduce sediment and scale, helping appliances last longer and perform better.

4. Cost Savings

Bottled water is expensive and wasteful. With a whole-home system, you’ll have pure, great-tasting water from every faucet — saving hundreds each year while cutting plastic waste.

5. Protects Your Plumbing

Clean water protects your plumbing system by preventing corrosion and buildup inside pipes. That means fewer leaks, better flow, and long-term savings on repairs.

Install a System with Confidence

At Putman & Son’s Plumbing, we install professional-grade water filtration systems tailored to your home’s needs. Whether you want better-tasting drinking water or full-scale filtration for your entire home, we’ll help you choose the right solution.

Enjoy cleaner, healthier water today — your pipes (and your family) will thank you.

📞 248-652-0990 | 🌐 pnsplumbing.com

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When it comes to conserving water and reducing utility bills, the bathroom is the best place to start. Toilets, showers, and faucets account for nearly 60% of indoor water use — but with today’s modern fixtures, you can save thousands of gallons per year without sacrificing performance.

Here’s how to make your bathroom more eco-friendly and efficient.

1. Low-Flow Toilets

Older toilets can use 3–5 gallons per flush, while modern low-flow or dual-flush toilets use just 1.28 gallons or less. Dual-flush models let you choose between a light flush for liquid waste and a full flush for solids — saving water every time you use them.

Over the course of a year, one low-flow toilet can save a family of four up to 16,000 gallons of water!

2. Water-Efficient Showerheads

Showers are another major source of water waste. Traditional showerheads use about 2.5 gallons per minute, but EPA WaterSense-labeled models use only 2.0 gallons or less — without compromising water pressure.

Modern designs even add air to the water flow, creating a satisfying, high-pressure feel while cutting usage by 20–30%.

3. Aerated Faucets

Faucet aerators mix air with water to reduce flow while maintaining steady pressure. These simple attachments cost just a few dollars and can save up to 700 gallons per year per faucet.

They’re easy to install on most sinks and are one of the quickest upgrades you can make for efficiency.

4. Smart Water Heaters

New tankless or smart water heaters heat water on demand, eliminating standby heat loss. They can reduce both water and energy waste — especially when paired with low-flow fixtures.

Bonus: Environmental Impact

Water-saving fixtures don’t just save money — they also help conserve local water resources and reduce energy use for heating. By upgrading your bathroom, you’re contributing to a more sustainable community.

Upgrade with Putman & Son’s Plumbing

At Putman & Son’s Plumbing, we specialize in installing high-quality, water-efficient fixtures that look great and perform even better. With over 35 years serving Metro Detroit, we’ll help you make your home more efficient, comfortable, and eco-friendly.

📞 248-652-0990 | 🌐 pnsplumbing.com

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Most homeowners don’t think about their drains — until they clog. But regular drain cleaning is one of the simplest ways to prevent costly plumbing issues and keep your home running smoothly. Here’s why investing in professional drain maintenance pays off.

The Hidden Buildup in Your Pipes

Even if your drains seem fine, everyday use takes a toll. Soap scum, grease, food particles, hair, and mineral deposits slowly collect inside your pipes. Over time, this buildup reduces water flow and creates the perfect environment for blockages and odors.

You might not notice until it’s too late — when a sink stops draining or water backs up into the tub. Routine drain cleaning removes this buildup before it becomes a major (and expensive) problem.

How Regular Cleaning Saves You Money

1. Prevents Major Clogs and Backups

Emergency plumbing visits for blocked drains can cost hundreds of dollars. Routine maintenance keeps your lines clear and prevents sudden disasters.

2. Protects Your Plumbing System

Built-up debris and pressure fluctuations can cause premature pipe wear and leaks. Regular cleaning extends the lifespan of your plumbing and reduces repair frequency.

3. Stops Sewer Line Damage Early

Tree roots, grease, and sludge can lead to serious sewer blockages. Annual hydro-jetting or camera inspections can catch issues early — avoiding full sewer replacements that can cost thousands.

4. Improves Efficiency

Clean drains mean faster drainage and less strain on your plumbing. That means fewer clogs, fewer repairs, and lower water bills over time.

5. Eliminates Odors

Old food and organic matter inside pipes can cause unpleasant smells. Routine cleaning keeps your kitchen and bathrooms fresh and sanitary.

Professional vs. DIY Drain Cleaning

While store-bought drain cleaners may offer a quick fix, they often contain harsh chemicals that corrode pipes. Professional plumbers use safe, effective methods like hydro jetting and mechanical snaking to fully clear buildup without damaging your system.

Keep Your Drains Flowing with Putman & Son’s Plumbing

With over 35 years of experience, Putman & Son’s Plumbing provides reliable drain cleaning throughout Macomb, Oakland, and Wayne counties. Whether it’s preventive maintenance or an emergency backup, our team uses modern equipment to get your drains flowing like new.

Don’t wait for a clog to cause chaos — schedule your drain cleaning today!

248-652-0990 | 🌐 pnsplumbing.com

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Your home’s plumbing is one of its most important systems, but it doesn’t last forever. Over time, pipes can corrode, rust, or develop leaks especially in older homes with galvanized or copper plumbing. Knowing when it’s time to repipe can save you from costly water damage, poor water quality, and constant repairs.

How Long Do Pipes Last?

Different materials have different lifespans:

• Copper: 50–70 years
• Galvanized Steel: 20–50 years
• Brass: 40–70 years
• PVC or PEX: 40–60 years

If your home was built before the 1980s, there’s a good chance your plumbing may be nearing the end of its life expectancy — especially if you’ve had recurring leaks or discolored water.

Warning Signs You May Need Repiping

1. Frequent Leaks

One small leak can often be repaired. But if leaks are happening regularly or in multiple locations, it’s likely a sign that your pipes are deteriorating overall.

2. Discolored or Rusty Water

Brown, yellow, or red-tinted water means rust or corrosion is breaking down inside your pipes. Not only does this affect water quality, but it can also damage appliances and fixtures.

3. Low Water Pressure

Mineral deposits and internal corrosion restrict water flow over time, leading to weak pressure throughout your home.

4. Unpleasant Taste or Odor

If your water smells metallic or musty, your pipes could be contaminated or breaking down internally.

5. Visible Corrosion or Stains

Check exposed pipes in basements or utility areas. Greenish or blue stains on copper pipes or rusty patches on steel ones indicate decay.

The Repiping Process

Repiping sounds daunting, but with a professional plumber, it’s manageable and efficient.
The process usually includes:

1. Inspecting your plumbing system with cameras or pressure tests
2. Replacing old or corroded sections with modern PEX or copper piping
3. Minimizing wall cuts and restoring affected areas after installation

Modern materials are more durable, flexible, and resistant to corrosion, meaning you’ll enjoy decades of reliable performance.

Trust the Experts at Putman & Son’s Plumbing

With over 35 years of experience, Putman & Son’s Plumbing helps homeowners in Macomb, Oakland, and Wayne counties determine whether repiping is necessary. We use top-quality materials and ensure minimal disruption during installation.

If your plumbing is showing signs of age, don’t wait for a burst pipe to tell you it’s time call the professionals today.

248-652-0990 | pnsplumbing.com

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Nothing’s worse than stepping into the shower and being met with a weak trickle of water. Low water pressure can make everyday tasks frustrating — but it’s also a warning sign of underlying plumbing problems. Here’s how to identify and fix the issue.

Common Causes of Low Water Pressure

1. Mineral Buildup in Pipes

Over time, hard water leaves calcium and lime deposits that narrow your pipes, restricting flow. This is especially common in older homes or those without water softeners.

2. Leaky Pipes

Even a small hidden leak can reduce water pressure throughout your home. Look for damp spots, puddles, or unusually high water bills as signs.

3. Faulty Fixtures or Aerators

Sometimes the problem is localized — a clogged showerhead or sink aerator can block water flow. Cleaning or replacing them often restores pressure.

4. Water Main or Valve Issues

If the main shut-off valve or pressure regulator is partially closed or malfunctioning, it can affect the entire home’s pressure.

5. Municipal Supply Problems

Sometimes, low pressure isn’t your fault — it’s an issue with your city’s water supply. Your plumber can test and confirm where the problem starts.

Quick Fixes You Can Try

• Remove and clean faucet aerators and showerheads using vinegar to dissolve mineral buildup.
• Ensure your main water valve is fully open.
• Install a pressure-boosting system if your municipal supply is consistently weak.

When to Call a Professional

If these quick fixes don’t help, call a licensed plumber. They can:

• Inspect your plumbing for leaks or corrosion
• Test your home’s water pressure and regulator
• Perform a camera inspection of your main line for blockages

Professional diagnosis ensures you don’t just mask the symptoms — you solve the root cause.

Trust Putman & Son’s Plumbing to Restore Your Water Pressure

With over 35 years of experience, Putman & Son’s Plumbing has helped countless Michigan homeowners restore strong, steady water pressure. Whether it’s a hidden leak, clogged main, or outdated piping, we have the expertise and tools to fix it fast.

Don’t settle for weak water flow, get your plumbing back in shape today.

248-652-0990 | 🌐 pnsplumbing.com

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Clogged drains are one of the most frustrating plumbing issues homeowners face. Whether it’s a slow-draining sink, a backed-up shower, or a stubborn main sewer line, you want it fixed fast, and properly. Two of the most common professional drain-cleaning methods are hydro jetting and snaking. But which one is better for your situation? Let’s break it down.

What Is Drain Snaking?

Drain snaking, also called cabling, has been around for decades. It involves using a long, flexible metal cable with a coiled end (called an auger) that is fed into the drain. As the snake spins, it breaks up blockages and pushes debris through the pipe.

Pros of Snaking:

• Effective for minor or moderate clogs near the surface
• Quick, affordable, and minimally invasive
• Good for older or fragile plumbing systems

Cons of Snaking:

• Doesn’t clean pipe walls, residue and grease may remain
• May not fully clear roots or heavy buildup
• Can be a temporary fix for deep or complex blockages

Snaking is great for everyday clogs like hair, soap scum, or small food particles, but it’s not a cure-all.

What Is Hydro Jetting?

Hydro jetting is a more powerful and modern drain-cleaning solution. It uses a specialized nozzle attached to a high-pressure water hose that blasts water through the pipe, often at pressures up to 4,000 PSI. This stream scours the entire inside of the pipe, removing grease, sludge, mineral buildup, and even tree roots.

Pros of Hydro Jetting:

• Cleans pipes completely, not just unclogs them
• Removes grease, sludge, and roots for long-lasting results
• Environmentally friendly, no harsh chemicals used
• Helps prevent future blockages

Cons of Hydro Jetting:

• Slightly more expensive upfront
• Not suitable for severely damaged or brittle pipes

Which Is Right for You?

If you’re dealing with a simple sink or shower clog, snaking is often enough to get the job done. But if your drains clog repeatedly, or multiple fixtures are backing up at once, it’s time to consider hydro jetting.

Hydro jetting is ideal for:

• Older homes with years of buildup
• Restaurants or households with heavy grease waste
• Tree root intrusions in main sewer lines
• Preventive maintenance to keep drains flowing

At Putman & Son’s Plumbing, we use state-of-the-art hydro jetting equipment to restore your pipes to full flow, safely and effectively. Our experienced technicians can inspect your plumbing with video cameras to determine the best method before starting work.

Don’t let recurring clogs disrupt your home, call the experts who can clear it right the first time.

248-652-0990 | 🌐 www.pnsplumbing.com

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Tree roots are nature’s way of searching for water, unfortunately, that sometimes means they find your sewer line. Root intrusion is one of the most common causes of major drain blockages and sewer backups, especially in older homes with clay or cast iron pipes.

How Roots Invade Sewer Lines

Roots are naturally drawn to moisture and nutrients. If there’s even a small crack, loose joint, or pinhole in your sewer pipe, roots can find their way in. Once inside, they grow quickly, feeding off the water and waste flowing through the pipe.

Over time, roots can form dense mats that slow drainage, block the line completely, or even break the pipe apart.

Signs of Root Damage

You might not notice it right away, but there are telltale signs that tree roots are invading your sewer line:

• Frequent or recurring clogs in toilets, tubs, and sinks
• Slow drains throughout the home, not just one fixture
• Gurgling sounds or bubbles when flushing toilets
• Lush green patches in your yard over the sewer path (roots love the extra nutrients!)
• Sewage odors around drains or outdoors

If you see these symptoms, it’s time to act fast, root intrusion won’t go away on its own.

How Professionals Remove Tree Roots

Plumbers use specialized tools to locate and clear the blockage without digging up your yard unnecessarily.

1. Video Camera Inspection:
   A small waterproof camera is inserted into your sewer line to pinpoint the problem area.
2. Hydro Jetting or Root Cutting:
   High-pressure water (hydro jetting) blasts away roots and buildup, while mechanical cutters slice through thicker obstructions.
3. Repair and Prevention:
   If the pipe is cracked or damaged, trenchless repair or pipe replacement may be recommended to prevent future root intrusion.

Prevention Tips

• Avoid planting large trees near your sewer line (especially maples, willows, and poplars).
• Schedule annual sewer camera inspections if you live in an older home.
• Consider trenchless pipe lining, which seals cracks and prevents roots from entering again.

Protect Your Sewer Line with Putman & Son’s Plumbing

Tree roots may be strong, but our technology is stronger. With over 35 years of experience serving Macomb, Oakland, and Wayne counties, Putman & Son’s Plumbing has the tools and expertise to locate, remove, and prevent root damage, saving you from costly sewer backups and repairs.

Call 248-652-0990 today or visit www.pnsplumbing.com to schedule a professional sewer inspection.

The post How Tree Roots Can Damage Sewer Lines (and What to Do About It) appeared first on Putman & Son's Plumbing.

A dripping faucet might seem like a minor annoyance — the kind of thing you’ll “get around to fixing someday.” But those steady drips can lead to wasted water, higher utility bills, and long-term plumbing damage.

How Much Water Does a Drip Waste?

It’s easy to underestimate the impact of a small leak. According to the EPA, a faucet dripping once per second can waste over 3,000 gallons of water per year — enough to fill nearly 50 bathtubs! That’s money literally going down the drain every day.

Even a slow drip can increase your monthly water bill, especially if you have multiple leaky fixtures. And if your home uses a water softener or well pump, the constant cycling adds to wear and tear on your equipment, leading to more repair costs down the road.

Common Causes of Leaky Faucets

• Worn Washers or O-Rings: The most common cause — these inexpensive rubber seals degrade over time.
• Corroded Valve Seats: Minerals and sediment buildup can erode the metal seat that connects the faucet and spout.
• Loose or Damaged Parts: Over time, handles, seals, and gaskets can loosen or crack.
• High Water Pressure: Excess pressure can cause drips and leaks in multiple fixtures.

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore the Drip

Beyond wasted water, a leaky faucet can lead to hidden damage. Constant moisture encourages mold growth under sinks and behind walls. It can also stain sinks, erode finishes, and contribute to corrosion in older plumbing. Over time, small leaks often turn into bigger ones — costing more in repairs and cleanup.

The Real Cost

While a simple washer replacement might cost less than $10, the average homeowner can lose $50–$200 per year in wasted water. If the leak is part of a larger plumbing issue, ignoring it can lead to hundreds (or even thousands) in damage.

Fixing leaks promptly not only saves money but also conserves one of our most precious resources — fresh water.

DIY or Call a Pro?

If you’re handy, you can try tightening fittings or replacing washers. However, if the leak persists, it’s time to call a professional. Older fixtures, corroded pipes, or hidden leaks often require special tools and expertise.

Trust the Experts at Putman & Son’s Plumbing

Our experienced technicians can diagnose and repair any leak — from faucets and toilets to hidden pipe issues behind walls. With over 35 years of trusted service across Macomb, Oakland, and Wayne counties, we’re proud to help Michigan homeowners save money, water, and stress.

Call 248-652-0990 or visit 🌐 www.pnsplumbing.com to schedule a leak inspection today.

Don’t let a drip become a disaster — fix it fast with Putman & Son’s Plumbing!

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A slow drain is one of the most common plumbing issues and one of the most ignored. It may seem harmless at first, but sluggish drains can signal buildup, clogs, or even deeper sewer line problems. Knowing when to tackle the issue yourself and when to call in the professionals can save you time, money, and frustration.

Try These Safe DIY Fixes First

Before reaching for harsh chemicals, try these plumber-approved steps:

Flush with Boiling Water

Sometimes grease or soap buildup is the culprit. Pour boiling water down the drain in two or three stages, letting it work for a few seconds each time.

Use Baking Soda and Vinegar

Pour half a cup of baking soda followed by a cup of vinegar. Cover the drain and let the mixture fizz for 15 minutes, then rinse with hot water. This natural solution can dissolve minor clogs without damaging pipes.

Clean the Stopper or P-Trap

Hair, toothpaste, and grime often collect under the sink. Place a bucket below the P-trap, unscrew it, and clean it out. Replace it carefully and test the flow.

Use a Plunger or Drain Snake

A simple sink plunger can dislodge small blockages near the drain. For deeper clogs, a hand-crank drain snake (available at hardware stores) may help.

Signs It’s Time to Call a Professional

DIY fixes work for surface-level clogs, but some problems require expert tools and knowledge. Call a licensed plumber if you notice:

• Multiple slow drains: This could mean a blockage in your main sewer line.
• Recurring clogs: If the same drain keeps slowing down, buildup deeper in the pipes is likely.
• Unpleasant odors: Sewer gas smells mean trouble below the surface.
• Gurgling or bubbling: Air trapped in the system indicates a potential vent or drain issue.

Why Professional Drain Cleaning Works Better

Professional plumbers use advanced tools such as hydro-jetting to clear pipes completely. High-pressure water removes grease, roots, and sludge without damaging your plumbing. This not only fixes the immediate problem but also helps prevent future backups.

Unlike chemical drain cleaners, which can corrode pipes and harm the environment, professional cleaning is safe and long-lasting.

Trust the Experts at Putman & Son’s Plumbing

With over 35 years serving Macomb, Oakland, and Wayne counties, Putman & Son’s Plumbing has the experience and technology to keep your drains clear and your plumbing healthy. We offer 24/7 emergency service and same-day appointments for stubborn clogs.

Don’t let a slow drain turn into a big problem — call the local experts today.

(248) 652-0990 | pnsplumbing.com

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