Putman & Sons Plumbing

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Why Do Pipes Make Noise?

Putman and Sons Plumbing 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.

 

What to Do If a Pipe Bursts in Your Home

Putman and Sons Plumbing What to Do If a Pipe Bursts in Your Home

We have enjoyed a mild winter but the temperatures are dropping starting this weekend which puts your pipes at risk. Be prepared and know how to handle the situation if this happens to you.

If you have identified a burst pipe go immediately to the main water valve in your home and shut it off. Spending time doing anything else will lead to more flooding and overall damage. Make sure you learn the location of this valve in your home in case this happens to you.

DO NOT wade through the water. Call Putman & Son’s certified, professional plumbers on our 24/7 hotline. Even if electronics aren’t present, it is a good idea to shut off electricity to avoid potential electrocution.

Get the Piping Repaired or Replaced

Call Putman & Son’s Plumbing for help any time; day or night. We know exactly what to do when pipes burst and will respond quickly to help. Beyond treating symptoms, we will also work diligently to discover the cause of the problem.

Flood Repair

Mold can quickly form wherever moisture is present. Depending on the extent of the flooding, you may need to hire a flood repair specialist as unintended moisture caused by burst pipes can weaken structural components. Take inventory of what has been soaked (flooring, walls, personal items, ceiling, etc…) and contact a specialist for their opinion.

Take a moment to call your insurer to discover what repairs are covered under your current plan. Are you covered for damage caused by a burst pipe? Knowing the extent of your protection can prevent financial woes.

It is best to be prepared for potential hazards and even better to take action to prevent them from happening in the first place. Contact Putman & Son’s Plumbing in southeast Michigan for a home inspection or maintenance plan so you can rest easier.

5 Ways to Prevent Frozen Pipes This Winter

Putman and Son's Plumbing Prevent Frozen Pipes

The first snow of the season is here which is a great time to remind everyone that frozen pipes can cause major damage. The best way to deal with this problem is to prevent it altogether. The following methods will help protect your home and plumbing from cold weather-related damage.

  • Maintain Temperatures Around Pipes – Areas like attics and crawl spaces are often unheated or have limited access to climate control. Make sure these areas are kept at higher temperatures to prevent pipe freezing.
  • Install Fiberglass Insulation in Attic or Crawl Space – Installing fiberglass insulation can protect your plumbing from low temperatures. This should be done while wearing heavy duty disposable coveralls, work gloves, and a dust mask.
  • Leave Cabinet Doors Open in the Kitchen – Pipes that connect to the kitchen sink are often found behind cabinets and along exterior walls. These spaces are harder to keep heated. Leave cabinet doors open in the kitchen to allow indoor heating to enter and warm pipes.
  • Turn Off the Main Water Valve – If you have no other options or if your home will be unoccupied for a length of time, turn off the main water valve. If the water remaining in a pipe freezes, it will significantly decrease the potential damage because spillage will be minimal.
  • Use a Heating Cable to Warm Pipes – Heating cable or heat tape is designed to keep pipes warm. This can be especially helpful in mobile homes. Always follow the manufacturer’s directions when installing.

Contact Putman and Son’s Plumbing for recommendations for all of your plumbing needs. Our certified plumbing experts can identify problem areas in your home and help find a solution before a pipe bursts.

Do You Need a Sump Pump?

Putman and Sons Plumbing Sump Pump

A sump pump is used to remove water from basements and crawl spaces. It helps to keep these areas dry to prevent flooding, mold growth, and water damage. A sump pit is constructed that connects to the pump. The pump provides the motion that carries water out of the pit and away from the foundation to a place where it can safely drain without causing structural issues.

How Does a Sump Pump Work?

Most units function using a pressure sensor or float activator. These will tell the pump when it’s time to turn on. The float activator works like a toilet tank, with a floating ball that rises to a certain point before switching the unit on. Pressure sensors are more common because they are convenient. This device activates when it detects water pressure. Automatic sump pumps are equipped with a manual turn-on function that lets the homeowner switch it on by hand in case the sensor or activator fails.

When the motor turns on, it rotates an impeller. Centrifugal force is created that forces water to the sides of the pipe. This pushes liquid in the pit out through a pipe. Residential sump pumps are powered using standard current electricity, so no specialized wiring is required. We recommend having a GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) on the outlet powering the pump for safety.

Contact Putman & Son’s Plumbing certified plumbers in Southeast Michigan for a recommendation and installation of the best sump pump for your home.