What Causes the Rotten Egg Smell?

A sulfur or rotten egg smell coming from a drain is usually caused by bacteria interacting with organic matter inside pipes. As waste breaks down, gases can form and create strong unpleasant odors.

While the smell may seem harmless at first, it can indicate buildup or ventilation problems within your plumbing system.

Common Sources of Sulfur Drain Odors

Drain Buildup

Soap scum, food debris, grease, and hair can collect inside drains and create bacteria growth.

Dry P-Traps

Unused drains may lose the water barrier inside the P-trap, allowing sewer gases to rise into the home.

Sewer Line Problems

Cracked or blocked sewer lines may contribute to stronger odors throughout the plumbing system.

Why the Smell Should Not Be Ignored

Persistent sulfur smells can make your home uncomfortable and may point to larger plumbing concerns. Ignoring the odor may allow buildup or drainage issues to worsen over time.

How to Reduce Drain Odors

Helpful prevention tips include:

• Run water in unused drains regularly
• Schedule professional drain cleaning
• Avoid pouring grease down sinks
• Keep drains free from buildup

Professional Drain Cleaning Solutions

Professional drain cleaning helps remove odor-causing buildup while improving water flow and overall plumbing performance.

If your drains continue to smell despite cleaning attempts, professional inspection may be necessary to identify deeper sewer or ventilation issues.

Learn more about our drain cleaning services and plumbing repair solutions for long-term odor prevention.

The post Why Drains Smell Like Rotten Eggs or Sulfur appeared first on Putman & Son's Plumbing.

Water Quality Affects More Than Drinking Water

Water quality impacts nearly every part of your home, from your morning shower to the evening laundry. Typically, homeowners only think about water when it tastes or smells strange. However, poor water quality can lead to silent issues like mineral buildup, unpleasant odors, and reduced plumbing efficiency.

Maintaining good water quality helps improve your daily comfort while protecting your plumbing system from long-term damage. By addressing these issues now, you can avoid costly repairs in the future.

Common Water Quality Problems in Michigan

Hard Water and Mineral Buildup

In many regions, hard water is a persistent problem. Hard water contains excess minerals like calcium and magnesium which settle inside your pipes. Over time, this creates a thick layer of scale that restricts water flow and lowers pressure. Furthermore, this buildup can eventually cause pipes to corrode or leak prematurely.

Sediment and Cloudiness

Sediment in your water can affect more than just the clarity of your glass. Specifically, physical particles can settle in the bottom of your water heater, reducing its heating performance and efficiency. As a result, your energy bills may rise as the system struggles to heat water through a layer of silt.

Odors and Taste Issues

Sulfur odors, metallic tastes, and strange discolorations are common signs of water quality concerns. For instance, a “rotten egg” smell usually indicates the presence of hydrogen sulfide gas. While these issues are often harmless to your health, they make cooking and bathing significantly less enjoyable.

How Water Quality Affects Your Home Appliances

Poor water quality can be incredibly hard on your expensive appliances. Because minerals and sediment accumulate in moving parts, you may notice:

• Reduced appliance lifespan: Dishwashers and washing machines wear out faster.
• Increased pipe corrosion: Acidic or mineral-heavy water eats away at metal.
• Lower water heater efficiency: Scale acts as an insulator, forcing the heater to work harder.
• Fixture damage: Buildup often clogs aerators and ruins the finish on faucets.

The Long-Term Benefits of Improving Your Water

Investing in a water filtration or softening system offers immediate rewards. In addition to better-tasting water, you will notice:

• Cleaner dishes and laundry: Soap lathers better and rinses away completely.
• Softer skin and hair: Removing harsh minerals prevents dryness after showering.
• Lower utility costs: Efficient appliances use less energy and water.
• Total plumbing protection: Clear pipes mean consistent pressure throughout the home.

Protecting Your Water Heater

Water heaters are especially vulnerable to sediment buildup. To prevent failure, we recommend regular maintenance and system flushing. Consequently, keeping your water clean will extend the equipment’s lifespan and save you money on replacements.

If you are concerned about your home’s water, explore our water heater services and plumbing maintenance resources for expert advice and solutions.

The post Why Clean Water Quality Matters for Your Home appeared first on Putman & Son's Plumbing.

What Causes Pipe Corrosion

Pipe corrosion develops gradually as materials break down due to water chemistry, age, and environmental conditions. Homes with older plumbing systems, especially those using galvanized steel, are more susceptible.

Over time, corrosion weakens pipes, leading to leaks, reduced water flow, and potential system failure.

Early Warning Signs to Watch

Recognizing corrosion early can help prevent serious issues. Common signs include:

• Rust-colored or discolored water
• Metallic taste or odor
• Frequent small leaks
• Reduced water pressure

These symptoms often indicate that pipes are deteriorating from the inside out.

Impact on Water Quality

Corroded pipes can affect the quality of your water. Particles from deteriorating materials can enter your water supply, leading to discoloration and unpleasant taste.

Addressing corrosion improves not only your plumbing system but also the safety and quality of your water.

Why Ignoring Corrosion Is Risky

Corrosion does not remain stable. It continues to worsen over time, increasing the risk of sudden pipe failure or significant leaks.

What starts as a minor issue can quickly become a major repair if left unaddressed.

Repair vs Replacement

Depending on the extent of corrosion, solutions may include localized repairs or full pipe replacement. In many cases, upgrading to modern materials like copper or PEX provides long-term durability and improved performance.

Long-Term Protection Strategies

Routine plumbing inspections are key to preventing corrosion-related problems. Monitoring water pressure and addressing small leaks early can also help extend the life of your system.

To explore your options, visit our water line repair and installation services page for more information.

The post What Homeowners Should Know About Pipe Corrosion appeared first on Putman & Son's Plumbing.

How Sediment Buildup Affects Water Heater Performance

If your water heater has not been performing the way it used to, sediment buildup may be part of the problem. Over time, minerals and debris from your water supply can settle at the bottom of the tank. As this layer builds up, it can interfere with the way the system heats water and affect overall performance.

Many homeowners do not think about sediment until they start noticing inconsistent hot water, unusual noises, or rising energy costs. Understanding how sediment buildup affects your water heater can help you know when maintenance or replacement may be needed.

What Is Sediment Buildup?

Sediment buildup happens when minerals such as calcium and magnesium separate from the water and settle inside the tank. This is especially common in homes with harder water, but it can occur in many systems over time.

As the sediment layer grows, it creates a barrier between the burner or heating element and the water in the tank. That makes the system work harder to heat water effectively. The result is often lower efficiency and more wear on the unit.

Reduced Heating Efficiency

One of the most common effects of sediment buildup is reduced efficiency. When the water heater has to work harder to heat through the mineral layer, it uses more energy to do the same job. That can increase utility costs and place additional strain on the system.

In some cases, homeowners notice that hot water takes longer to recover or does not seem as reliable as it once was. If the unit has become less efficient, sediment may be part of the reason.

Less Available Hot Water

Sediment does not just affect how efficiently your water heater runs. It can also reduce how much usable hot water is available. As buildup takes up space at the bottom of the tank, there is less room for heated water storage.

This can make showers shorter, daily tasks more frustrating, and overall comfort less consistent. If your household seems to be running out of hot water more quickly than before, the condition of your water heater should be evaluated.

Rumbling or Popping Noises

A water heater with sediment buildup may start making rumbling, popping, or knocking sounds. These noises can happen as trapped water pushes through the buildup and heats unevenly inside the tank.

While unusual sounds do not always mean replacement is necessary, they are often a sign that the system needs attention. Ignoring them can allow the problem to continue getting worse over time.

More Wear on the System

Sediment buildup can increase wear on important parts of the water heater. As the unit works harder and operates less efficiently, the added stress can shorten its lifespan. What could have been handled with maintenance earlier may eventually lead to repair needs or full replacement.

This is why routine maintenance matters. Flushing the tank when appropriate and keeping an eye on performance changes can help extend the life of the system.

Know When to Take Action

If your water heater is making unusual noises, struggling to keep up, or showing signs of reduced efficiency, it may be time to have it inspected. In some cases, maintenance can improve performance. In others, especially if the unit is older, replacement may be the better long-term option.

If you are already evaluating plumbing performance throughout the home, you may also find it helpful to read our internal blog on plumbing upgrades that can improve everyday comfort.

Support Better Hot Water Performance

Hot water is something most homeowners rely on every day, and sediment buildup can quietly interfere with that comfort over time. Paying attention to the warning signs can help you address the issue before it leads to bigger performance problems or unnecessary stress on the system.

Putman & Sons Plumbing helps homeowners with water heater service, system evaluations, and practical plumbing solutions that support better performance and reliability. When your hot water system works the way it should, everyday routines feel easier and more dependable.

The post How Sediment Buildup Affects Water Heater Performance appeared first on Putman & Son's Plumbing.

How to Protect Your Home from Water Damage Year-Round

Water damage can happen slowly or all at once. A hidden leak under a sink may go unnoticed for weeks, while a failed sump pump or burst pipe can create major problems in a matter of minutes. Either way, water damage can affect walls, flooring, cabinets, personal belongings, and even the structure of your home.

The good news is that many plumbing-related water damage issues can be prevented with the right maintenance and early attention. Protecting your home year-round starts with understanding where plumbing issues tend to develop and taking steps to stay ahead of them.

Check for Leaks Regularly

One of the most important ways to protect your home is to watch for signs of leaks. Small leaks may not seem urgent at first, but over time they can cause staining, mold growth, warped materials, and higher water bills.

Check beneath sinks, around toilets, behind appliances, and near exposed plumbing for moisture, rust, water stains, or musty smells. Pay attention to dripping faucets, damp cabinets, or areas where paint or drywall appears to bubble. These early warning signs can help you catch a problem before it becomes more expensive.

If you suspect a hidden leak, scheduling professional plumbing service can help identify the source and prevent further damage.

Keep Drains Flowing Properly

Slow drains are easy to ignore, but they can be an early sign of buildup or a deeper blockage. When water drains too slowly, it increases the risk of backups, overflows, and standing water inside your home.

To help prevent problems, avoid putting grease, food scraps, coffee grounds, and other debris down kitchen drains. In bathrooms, hair and soap residue are common causes of clogs. Using drain covers and staying mindful of what goes down your pipes can make a big difference.

If a drain problem keeps coming back, it may be time for professional drain cleaning to restore proper flow and reduce the risk of future water damage.

Test Your Sump Pump

A sump pump plays a major role in protecting basements from water intrusion, especially during heavy rain and seasonal weather changes. If your sump pump is not working properly, your basement could be at risk when you need protection the most.

Testing your sump pump regularly is a smart part of year-round home care. Make sure it turns on properly, removes water efficiently, and does not make unusual noises. It is also important to check the discharge line and consider whether a battery backup system makes sense for your home.

If you want to stay proactive, learn more about signs your sump pump is not ready for spring and when to schedule service.

Pay Attention to Outdoor Plumbing

Exterior plumbing can also contribute to water damage. Hose bibs, irrigation lines, and outdoor spigots should be checked throughout the year, especially after winter. Cracks, leaks, or damaged connections can allow water to seep into the home or foundation if left unaddressed.

Make outdoor plumbing checks part of your seasonal routine. It is a simple way to catch issues early and reduce the chance of hidden damage near exterior walls or crawl spaces.

Schedule Preventive Plumbing Service

Routine inspections are one of the best ways to avoid costly surprises. Professional plumbing maintenance can help identify worn parts, aging pipes, water pressure concerns, drainage issues, and other conditions that may lead to water damage later.

Preventive service is especially valuable for older homes or homes that have experienced leaks, backups, or water heater issues in the past. A small repair today can help prevent a much larger cleanup later.

Protect Your Home with a Proactive Approach

Water damage prevention is not just about reacting to emergencies. It is about staying aware of small signs, keeping your plumbing system in good condition, and addressing concerns before they become larger problems.

From leak detection and drain cleaning to sump pump service and seasonal inspections, Putman & Sons Plumbing helps homeowners protect their homes throughout the year. Staying proactive can save money, reduce stress, and help keep your home safe and dry in every season.

The post How to Protect Your Home from Water Damage Year-Round in Metro Detroit appeared first on Putman & Son's Plumbing.

Seasonal Changes Impact Drain Performance

Spring can bring noticeable changes to your plumbing system. Increased moisture, temperature shifts, and higher water usage all contribute to slower drains.

Common Causes

Winter Buildup

During winter, grease, soap, and debris accumulate in pipes, narrowing the flow path.

Increased Usage

Spring cleaning, laundry, and outdoor activities increase water usage and strain your system.

Sewer Pressure

Heavy rain can slow drainage by increasing pressure in municipal systems.

Signs You Need Professional Help

• Persistent slow drains
• Recurring clogs
• Foul odors
• Gurgling sounds

These issues often indicate deeper blockages.

Why DIY Fixes Fall Short

Store-bought cleaners may temporarily clear minor clogs but often fail to address the root cause. In some cases, they can damage pipes.

Professional cleaning provides a more thorough solution.

Keep Your Plumbing Flowing

Routine maintenance and inspections can prevent buildup and ensure your system operates efficiently year round.

The post Why Your Drain May Be Slower in Spring appeared first on Putman & Son's Plumbing.

Why Spring Rain Can Stress Your Plumbing

Spring in Michigan brings heavy rainfall, melting snow, and saturated ground conditions. While this seasonal shift is expected, it can put significant pressure on your plumbing system. Underground pipes, sump pumps, and sewer lines all work harder during this time, increasing the risk of leaks, backups, and basement flooding.

Many homeowners do not realize that winter damage often shows up in spring. Pipes weakened by freezing temperatures may begin to crack, and drainage systems may struggle to keep up with increased water flow.

Check Your Sump Pump First

Your sump pump is your home’s primary defense against water intrusion. Before heavy rain begins, test your system by pouring water into the pit to ensure it activates properly.

Make sure to check:

• Pump activation and shutoff
• Discharge line flow
• Backup battery system
• Any debris or blockages

If your pump hesitates, runs slowly, or makes unusual noises, it may not be ready for peak demand. A professional inspection from Putman & Sons Plumbing can confirm everything is functioning correctly.

Inspect for Hidden Leaks

Leaks are one of the most common spring plumbing issues. Warmer temperatures cause pipes to expand, which can reveal cracks formed during winter.

Look for:

• Water stains on ceilings or walls
• Damp cabinets under sinks
• Peeling paint or bubbling drywall
• Musty odors

Even a small leak can quickly escalate into structural damage if left untreated.

Clear and Test Your Drains

Spring often exposes drainage problems that developed over winter. Debris, grease buildup, and sediment can restrict water flow, making your plumbing system more vulnerable during heavy rain.

Run water through all fixtures and pay attention to:

• Slow drainage
• Gurgling sounds
• Water backing up

If issues are present, professional drain cleaning may be necessary. Visit Putman & Sons Plumbing to learn more about available services.

Inspect Outdoor Plumbing

Outdoor plumbing is especially vulnerable to winter damage. Frozen pipes can crack and leak once temperatures rise.

Check:

• Hose bibs for leaks
• Outdoor faucets for cracks
• Irrigation systems for proper operation

Addressing these issues early prevents water waste and further damage.

Stay Ahead of Spring Plumbing Problems

Preparing your plumbing for spring rain is one of the best ways to avoid emergency repairs. A simple inspection today can help protect your home from costly water damage tomorrow.

The post How to Prepare Your Plumbing for Spring Rain appeared first on Putman & Son's Plumbing.

Why Bathroom Sink Drains Slow Down

A slow bathroom sink is one of the most common plumbing issues homeowners face. Over time, hair, soap scum, toothpaste, and debris build up inside the drain, restricting water flow.

While it may seem minor, ignoring it can lead to a full blockage.

Step-by-Step: How to Clear a Slow Drain

Before calling a plumber, try these simple steps:

1. Remove and Clean the Stopper
Most bathroom sinks have a stopper that collects hair and debris. Remove it and clean off buildup.

2. Flush with Hot Water
Pouring hot water down the drain can help dissolve soap and minor blockages.

3. Use a Baking Soda and Vinegar Solution
Pour baking soda followed by vinegar into the drain. Let it sit for 15 minutes, then flush with hot water.

4. Try a Plunger
A small sink plunger can help loosen stubborn clogs.

When DIY Isn’t Enough

If your drain is still slow after trying these methods, the blockage may be deeper in the pipes. Professional tools like drain snakes or hydro jetting may be required.

Recurring slow drains often indicate a larger issue in your plumbing system.

How to Prevent Future Clogs

Prevention is simple and effective:

• Avoid letting hair go down the drain
• Use a drain screen
• Clean your stopper regularly
• Schedule routine drain cleaning

Professional Drain Cleaning Services

At Putman & Son’s Plumbing, we offer expert drain cleaning services to fully remove buildup and restore proper flow.

You can also learn more about advanced solutions in our blog on Hydro Jetting vs. Traditional Drain Cleaning Methods.

Keep Your Plumbing Flowing Smoothly

Addressing slow drains early helps prevent bigger plumbing problems down the line.

Tags: slow drain fix, bathroom plumbing Detroit, clogged sink repair, drain cleaning tips, plumbing maintenance, local plumber Michigan

The post How to Clear a Slow Bathroom Sink Drain: Detroit Homeowner’s Guide appeared first on Putman & Son's Plumbing.

Understanding the Spring Sewer Problem

Spring in Metro Detroit brings heavy rain, melting snow, and saturated ground conditions. While this season signals warmer weather, it also increases the risk of sewer backups for homeowners. When the ground becomes oversaturated, municipal sewer systems can become overwhelmed, forcing wastewater back into residential plumbing systems.

This is one of the most common plumbing emergencies we see at Putman & Son’s Plumbing during the spring months.

What Causes Sewer Backups During Heavy Rain?

Several factors contribute to sewer backups in spring:

• Excessive rainfall overwhelming sewer systems
• Tree root intrusion in older pipes
• Grease and debris buildup restricting flow
• Aging or cracked sewer lines

When these issues combine with heavy rainfall, your plumbing system may not be able to handle the increased pressure.

Warning Signs of a Sewer Backup

Recognizing early warning signs can save thousands in damage:

• Slow draining sinks or tubs
• Gurgling sounds from toilets
• Foul odors from drains
• Water backing up in basement drains

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to act quickly.

How to Prevent Spring Sewer Backups

The best defense is proactive maintenance. Here are key steps homeowners should take:

• Schedule routine sewer line inspections
• Have professional drain cleaning performed annually
• Install a backflow prevention valve
• Avoid flushing grease, wipes, or debris

Routine maintenance keeps your system flowing smoothly and reduces the risk of emergency repairs.

When to Call a Professional

If your home has experienced backups before or you’re noticing early signs, it’s time to call a professional plumber. At Putman & Son’s Plumbing, we provide advanced sewer inspections and cleaning services to keep your system running efficiently.

For more information on prevention, check out our guide on How Heavy Rain Can Trigger Sewer Backflow.

Protect Your Home This Spring

Don’t wait until a backup causes costly damage. Spring is the ideal time to ensure your plumbing system is ready to handle increased water flow.

The post Why Spring Rain Is Causing More Sewer Backups in Metro Detroit appeared first on Putman & Son's Plumbing.

A toilet that looks spotless but still smells bad can be frustrating and confusing. Many homeowners assume odors are caused by poor cleaning, but in reality, unpleasant smells often come from hidden plumbing issues rather than surface-level dirt. Understanding why a clean toilet smells can help you address the problem early and prevent bigger plumbing concerns down the line.

Below are the most common reasons a clean toilet can still produce odors, along with what you can do about them.

Sewer Gas Escaping Into the Bathroom

One of the most common causes of toilet odors is sewer gas. Plumbing systems are designed to keep these gases out of your home, but when something goes wrong, smells can seep into the bathroom.

Sewer gas odors often smell like rotten eggs or sulfur. They can come and go, making them especially difficult to pinpoint. If the smell is persistent, it’s a sign that something in the system isn’t sealed properly.

A Dry or Failing Toilet Trap

Every toilet has a built-in trap that holds water to block sewer gases from entering your home. If that water level drops too low or evaporates, odors can rise up through the drain.

This issue is more common in bathrooms that aren’t used often. Over time, the water in the trap can slowly evaporate, allowing smells to escape. Simply flushing the toilet may temporarily fix the issue, but recurring odors could indicate a deeper problem.

Wax Ring Problems Under the Toilet

The wax ring seals the base of the toilet to the drain pipe and prevents sewer gas and water from leaking out. If this ring becomes cracked, compressed, or deteriorated, odors can escape even though the toilet appears clean and functional.

Signs of a failing wax ring may include:

• Persistent odors near the toilet base
• Moisture or staining around the toilet
• A toilet that rocks or shifts slightly

Replacing a wax ring requires removing the toilet, which is best handled by a professional plumber.

Bacteria Buildup in Hidden Areas

Even when a toilet bowl is clean, bacteria can collect in areas that are harder to reach. The underside of the toilet rim, internal channels, or drain lines can harbor buildup that produces unpleasant smells.

Hard water deposits and mineral buildup can worsen this issue by creating surfaces where bacteria thrive. Regular deep cleaning helps, but if odors persist, plumbing inspection may be needed.

Vent Pipe or Plumbing Vent Issues

Plumbing vents allow air to flow through the system and safely release sewer gases outside. If a vent pipe becomes blocked by debris, leaves, or even animal nests, gases may be pushed back into the bathroom instead.

Vent problems often cause intermittent smells that worsen during temperature changes or after heavy water use. Because vent pipes are usually located on the roof, diagnosing this issue typically requires a trained professional.

Mold or Moisture Around the Toilet Base

Sometimes the odor isn’t coming from the toilet itself, but from moisture trapped around or beneath it. Small leaks can create damp conditions that allow mold or mildew to grow, producing musty or sour smells.

This can happen without visible water damage, making it easy to overlook until odors become noticeable.

When to Call a Professional Plumber

If your toilet smells despite regular cleaning, it’s a sign that the issue goes beyond surface-level maintenance. Persistent odors should never be ignored, as they may indicate sewer gas exposure or hidden leaks that can worsen over time.

A licensed plumber can:

• Inspect the toilet seal and wax ring
• Check venting and drain lines
• Identify hidden leaks or moisture issues
• Ensure your plumbing system is operating safely

Final Thoughts

A clean toilet that smells bad is more than just an inconvenience. It’s often an early warning sign of an underlying plumbing issue that needs attention. Addressing the cause early can help prevent costly repairs, protect indoor air quality, and keep your bathroom fresh and safe.

If odors keep returning, professional inspection is the best way to identify the source and restore peace of mind.

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