A leach field, also called a drain field, is an important part of a septic system. After wastewater leaves the home and enters the septic tank, solids settle in the tank while liquid wastewater moves out to the leach field. There, the water is filtered through soil before returning safely to the environment.

When a leach field is working properly, most homeowners do not think about it. When it fails, the signs can be messy, unpleasant, and expensive.

How a Leach Field Works

The septic tank separates solids from liquid wastewater. The liquid then flows into perforated pipes buried in the leach field. These pipes distribute wastewater into the soil, where natural filtration takes place.

The soil plays a major role. If the soil becomes oversaturated, compacted, or clogged, wastewater may not drain properly.

Signs of Leach Field Problems

Common warning signs include soggy areas in the yard, sewage odors, slow drains, toilets that struggle to flush, backups inside the home, or unusually green grass above the leach field.

These signs should not be ignored. They may indicate that wastewater is not moving through the system correctly.

What Causes Leach Field Failure?

Leach field problems may result from poor maintenance, too much water use, compacted soil, tree root intrusion, heavy objects driven over the field, or a septic tank that has not been pumped regularly.

Flushing the wrong materials or sending grease and chemicals down drains can also contribute to system issues.

Call Putman & Son’s Plumbing

If you are noticing sewer odors, slow drains, or backups, Putman & Son’s Plumbing can help evaluate your plumbing concerns and recommend the right next step.

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A septic system relies on a careful balance of wastewater flow, natural bacteria, and proper drainage. When the wrong items enter the system, they can clog pipes, upset bacteria levels, fill the tank too quickly, or damage the leach field.

Even if something fits down a drain or toilet, that does not mean it belongs in your septic system.

Avoid Flushing Non-Biodegradable Items

Toilets should only handle human waste and toilet paper. Items such as wipes, paper towels, cotton swabs, diapers, feminine hygiene products, dental floss, and cigarette butts should never be flushed. These materials can create clogs and do not break down properly inside a septic tank.

Even “flushable” wipes can cause problems. They may move through the toilet, but they can collect inside pipes or the tank.

Keep Grease and Food Scraps Out

Cooking grease, oils, coffee grounds, eggshells, and food scraps should not go down drains. Grease can harden inside pipes and create buildup. Food waste can add unnecessary solids to the tank and increase the risk of clogs.

If your home has a garbage disposal and a septic system, use it carefully. Large amounts of ground food waste can place extra strain on the system.

Be Careful With Chemicals

Harsh chemicals, paint, solvents, pesticides, medications, and large amounts of cleaners can disrupt the bacteria that help break down waste in the tank. Without healthy bacteria, solids may build up faster and cause system problems.

Watch Your Water Use

Too much water entering the system at once can overwhelm the tank and leach field. Spacing out laundry loads, repairing leaks, and using water efficiently can help protect your septic system.

Call Putman & Son’s Plumbing

If you are dealing with slow drains, sewer odors, backups, or plumbing concerns related to your septic system, Putman & Son’s Plumbing can help inspect the issue and recommend the right next step.

The post What Should Never Go Into a Septic Tank? appeared first on Putman & Son's Plumbing.

Premature water heater failure: why it happens

A water heater is one of the most important systems in your home, but many homeowners do not think much about it until the hot water becomes unreliable. When a unit fails earlier than expected, the cost and inconvenience can be frustrating. In many cases, premature water heater failure is not random. It is often the result of wear, water quality issues, neglected maintenance, or performance problems that built up over time.

Understanding why early failure happens can help you protect your current system and avoid surprises.

Sediment buildup inside the tank

One of the most common causes of early water heater failure is sediment buildup. Minerals in the water settle at the bottom of the tank over time, especially in homes with hard water. This layer of buildup makes it harder for the system to heat water efficiently and puts extra strain on the tank.

As sediment collects, the water heater may start making popping or rumbling sounds, produce less hot water, or run less efficiently. Eventually, that added stress can shorten the life of the unit.

Hard water problems

Hard water does not just affect faucets and showerheads. It can also reduce the lifespan of your water heater. Mineral-heavy water increases scale buildup, affects heating efficiency, and can accelerate wear on internal components.

If you live in Metro Detroit and notice hard water residue around your home, it may be worth considering whether your water quality is contributing to system wear.

Lack of maintenance

Like any major home system, a water heater benefits from regular maintenance. When routine service is skipped, small issues can go unnoticed until they become more serious. Sediment may build up, parts may wear down, and the unit may work harder than necessary.

Preventive maintenance can help identify performance changes earlier and extend the life of the system. Even if your unit still appears to be working, maintenance can reveal hidden issues before they lead to breakdowns.

Excessive water pressure

High water pressure can create stress throughout your plumbing system, including your water heater. When pressure remains too high, it can affect fittings, connections, valves, and internal system performance.

This is one reason pressure-related plumbing concerns should not be ignored. If your home has signs of pressure problems, it may be affecting more than one part of your system.

Age and normal wear

Even with good maintenance, water heaters do not last forever. As a system gets older, natural wear becomes a larger factor. If your water heater is aging and already showing signs of reduced performance, it may be nearing the point where repair is no longer the best long-term option.

Warning signs can include inconsistent water temperature, less available hot water, unusual noises, leaks near the base of the unit, or visible corrosion.

Installation and sizing issues

In some cases, premature problems can be tied to improper installation or a system that is not the right size for the household. A unit that is undersized may work harder than it should. Poor installation can also affect performance and reliability over time.

This is why professional evaluation and quality workmanship matter when a new water heater is installed.

Protect your hot water system

Premature water heater failure often starts with smaller issues that were easy to overlook at first. Sediment buildup, hard water, pressure concerns, and delayed maintenance can all shorten the life of the unit and reduce daily comfort.

Putman & Sons Plumbing helps homeowners identify hot water system issues, improve performance, and determine when repair or replacement makes the most sense. A proactive approach can help you get more reliable service and better long-term value from your system.

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Is Your Sump Pump Ready for Heavy Summer Rain?

Summer rain can arrive quickly, and when it does, your sump pump becomes one of the most important plumbing systems in your home. For many Metro Detroit homeowners, a working sump pump is the difference between a dry basement and a costly cleanup.

If your sump pump has not been checked recently, now is a smart time to make sure it is ready.

Why Sump Pump Maintenance Matters Before Heavy Rain

A sump pump is designed to move water away from your basement or crawl space before it can cause flooding. When rainwater collects around your foundation, it drains into the sump pit. Once the water reaches a certain level, the pump activates and pushes it away from your home.

The problem is that sump pumps often sit unused for long stretches of time. If the motor fails, the float switch gets stuck, the discharge line clogs, or the backup system is not working, you may not notice until heavy rain hits.

That is why preventive sump pump service is so important.

Signs Your Sump Pump May Need Service

Watch for these warning signs:

• Strange grinding or rattling noises
• Pump runs constantly
• Pump does not turn on
• Water remains in the pit
• Musty basement odors
• Visible rust or corrosion
• Frequent cycling on and off
• Pump is more than several years old

Even if your sump pump seems fine, it may still be worth having it checked before storm season. Small issues can become big problems during heavy rainfall.

Do You Have a Backup System?

Power outages often happen during storms, which is exactly when your sump pump needs to work most. A battery backup sump pump can provide added protection if the power goes out or the main pump fails.

Homeowners with finished basements, stored belongings, or a history of water issues should strongly consider backup protection.

Professional Sump Pump Help in Metro Detroit

Putman & Son’s Plumbing provides professional sump pump service for homes and businesses throughout Metro Detroit. Whether you need an inspection, repair, replacement, or backup system, our team can help keep your property protected.

You can also explore our residential plumbing services for additional ways to prepare your home before summer storms.

Schedule Before the Next Storm

Do not wait until water is already coming into your basement. A quick sump pump check can help prevent stress, damage, and expensive repairs.

Call Putman & Son’s Plumbing at (248) 652-0990 or visit pnsplumbing.com to schedule service.

The post Is Your Sump Pump Ready for Heavy Summer Rain? appeared first on Putman & Son's Plumbing.

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.

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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.

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