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All of us at Putman & Son’s Plumbing wishes our family, friends and clients a very festive Easter holiday.
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Is Your Plumbing System Ready for the Warmer Temperatures?
Spring isn’t just about gardening. It’s also about making sure your plumbing system is performing at optimum levels. What can you do to prepare your plumbing system for the warm season?
Test Water Pressure for Leaky Pipes
A pipe may start leaking long before you notice any water in your home or on your property. Check water pressure throughout your home to ensure that it is performing at optimum levels. If you notice a drop in pressure, this could be a sign that something is damaged.
Make Sure Your Sump Pump Works
If your home has a sump pump, now is a good time to check on it. It should be tested once every three months. Check all components including:
- Drains that lead outside that can become blocked by debris
- The pump to ensure that it hasn’t tilted or shifted
- Electrical wires and the battery for signs of damage or corrosion
To test your sump pump, pour water into the pit. Fill until the float rises and watch to make sure it responds like it is supposed to.
Clean Gutters and Plumbing Vents
Animal activity can also be a problem. Squirrels and birds tend to build nests, and they may choose your gutters or vent as their new living space. These should be cleared out immediately to protect your home. It’s also best to move wildlife off before they get comfortable and start having babies in your plumbing vent.
Talk to a Professional Plumber for Spring Advice
Putman & Son’s certified plumbers can perform an in-depth inspection and provide advice to help you get ready for the rest of the year. We are available to come to your Southeast Michigan home to make sure your plumbing is in good working order. Give us a call today to schedule your appointment.
World Water Day
World Water Day is a yearly UN observance that brings attention to the importance of freshwater and to advocate for its sustainability as a resource. In Michigan, we are fortunate to have The Great Lakes, which together make up the largest body of fresh water on our planet accounting for 1/5 of the freshwater on our earth.
Make Your Home Environmentally Friendly with GREEN PLUMBING
When most people think of “going green,” their minds usually go to recycling, reducing waste, and conserving energy. Did you know that your plumbing system can also go green? Green plumbing is another way more people are reducing their impact on the environment. There are many ways to get started.
Update Old Plumbing Systems
Old plumbing systems were not built to today’s standards. We have better methods and technology that allow the system to operate efficiently. If you haven’t updated your plumbing in years, it may be time to do so. Not only will it help the environment, but it can also reduce the cost of your monthly water and sewer bills.
Install Energy Efficient Appliances
Along with better hardware, energy-efficient appliances are also available. These require less water and power to operate. Your plumbing system is likely connected to at least two or three appliances like a dishwasher, washing machine, or water heater. If yours are old, malfunctioning, or not built to Energy Star standards, it may be time to look for replacements.
Have a Professional Inspect Your System
More plumbers are getting on board with the green movement. Having one inspect your system can provide you with insight into what needs updated. Look for a professional that works with green plumbing systems. They can recommend products that will meet your household needs while reducing water and energy consumption and waste production. If you have questions, contact Putman and Son’s Plumbing today to get started on your green plumbing system.
Why Is My Water Pressure Low?
Low water pressure can be frustrating. It can also be a sign of a problem that needs to be fixed in your plumbing system. The following list outlines several common causes of low water pressure.
- Clog in Water Pipes
If the valves are open and you’re still experiencing low water pressure, then there may be a clog. This affects a small section of the system, which can be tricky to locate. It’s usually best to call a professional to find the problem and clean it out.
- Fixtures Need Repaired or Replaced
Malfunctioning fixture rank among the most common causes of low water pressure. If yours are old, they may be damaged or clogged with dirt, limestone, or rust. This will slow water movement.
Go through your home and turn faucets on one at a time to determine if this is the problem. Also, make sure you check the aerators and screens before replacing any fixtures.
- Faulty Water Valves
Each home has two shut-off valves, one on the meter side and the other on the home side of your water line. If one of the valves isn’t completely open, it can cause low pressure. Try gently opening and closing the valves a few times to free any sediment and increase water pressure.
- Corroded or Outdated System
Corrosion can happen, especially in an old plumbing system. This can lead to low water pressure. You may need to replace all the pipes to deal with the issue.
Some aged systems have narrower branch lines. When a fixture is updated, the old branch lines will still limit water flow. These must be replaced to get optimum performance out of your system.
- Insufficient Water Supply Line
Insufficient main supply line can cause low pressure. This issue should be handled by a professional only. Local records may be needed to check connection size in your home.
If you are experiencing low water pressure, contact Putman and Son’s Plumbing today. Our licensed plumbers can inspect your system and help you find a solution that works.
Why Do Pipes Make Noise?
Our homes are never completely silent. We usually become accustomed to hearing the normal background sounds in our living spaces. That’s why it can be startling when a new noise is heard, like unexplained sounds in your pipes. What causes pipes to make noise and what should you do about it?
Expanding Copper Pipes
Copper pipes may expand when they come in contact with hot water. This is a characteristic of the metal used to make them. Pipes running through narrow spaces may rub against and hit surfaces when expansion occurs. This is usually a minor issue. If it is bothersome, you can try turning down the temperature on the water heater.
Potentially Damaging Water Hammer
If you hear a loud thud when the flow of water is stopped, you could be experiencing water hammer. This happens when rushing water cannot continue to move through the pipe and slams into a shut-off valve. The sound can be loud, and it can lead to damage to connections and joints. To correct, you should check your air chamber or install water hammer arrestors.
Too Much Water Pressure
Water pressure that is too high can cause noise in pipes. Most homes will have a pressure regulator. This is installed where the main water supply comes into the structure. It should allow water to enter at no lower than 40 psi and no higher than 80 psi. If psi is too high, pressure can cause damage to appliances that use water like the dishwasher or washing machine.
If your home does not have a pressure regulator, a professional can install one for you. Contact Putman & Son’s Plumbing to request a quote.
