Increased Water Flow Causes Pressure

April rainstorms can overwhelm municipal sewer systems. When excess water enters the system, pressure builds and can force wastewater back toward homes.

This reverse flow is known as sewer backflow and can cause serious damage.

Common Causes of Sewer Backups

• Heavy rainfall overwhelming sewer systems
• Tree roots blocking pipes
• Grease and debris buildup
• Aging or damaged sewer lines

Homes with basements are especially vulnerable because they sit below street level.

Warning Signs to Watch

• Multiple drains slowing at once
• Gurgling noises in plumbing
• Sewer odors
• Water backing up into tubs or floor drains

These signs indicate pressure buildup in the system.

Preventive Measures

To reduce risk:

• Schedule regular sewer inspections
• Avoid flushing non-flushable items
• Install a backflow valve
• Maintain clean drain lines

Professional services from <a href=”https://www.pnsplumbing.com/”>Putman & Sons Plumbing</a> can help protect your system.

Do Not Wait for a Backup

Sewer backups can cause extensive damage and health hazards. Taking preventive steps now is the best way to protect your home.

The post How April Weather Can Trigger Sewer Backups 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.

We’ve all dealt with a slow drain now and then — but ignoring it can lead to major plumbing problems. While it might seem harmless, that slow drain could be warning you about deeper issues in your system.

1. The Early Signs of Trouble

A slow drain usually starts with minor symptoms:

• Water pooling in your sink or tub
• Gurgling sounds from drains
• Foul odors rising from pipes

These symptoms often indicate buildup from soap, grease, or hair. But if it’s happening in multiple drains, the issue could be more serious — like a clogged main sewer line.

2. The Hidden Dangers of Ignoring Slow Drains

When drains slow down, water pressure increases behind the clog. Over time, this pressure can cause leaks or burst pipes. Slow drains can also lead to standing water, which attracts bacteria, mold, and even pests.

If you notice repeated blockages, it may signal a cracked pipe or tree root intrusion — problems that require professional inspection.

3. DIY Fixes vs. Professional Solutions

Many homeowners reach for chemical drain cleaners, but these harsh solutions can corrode pipes and worsen the problem. Instead, try natural remedies like baking soda and vinegar for minor clogs. For deeper issues, a professional drain cleaning is the safest and most effective choice.

4. How Professionals Fix the Problem

At Putman & Son’s Plumbing, we use advanced video inspection technology to locate blockages deep within your plumbing system. For stubborn clogs, our hydro jetting service uses high-pressure water to safely clear debris and restore flow — no chemicals, no damage.

5. Prevent Future Drain Problems

Preventive care is key:

• Avoid pouring grease down drains.
• Use drain strainers to catch hair and debris.
• Schedule annual drain inspections.

Don’t Ignore the Signs

A slow drain today could be a serious plumbing issue tomorrow. Don’t wait for water damage to strike — act early.

Call Putman & Son’s Plumbing at (248) 652-0990 or visit pnsplumbing.com for professional drain cleaning and inspection services.

The post When a Slow Drain Means a Bigger Plumbing Problem appeared first on Putman & Son's Plumbing.