Plumber, Plumbing Company, Master Plumbers
A furnace tune-up is maintenance performed to help your furnace function at its best and prolong its life expectancy. If your furnace is operating effectively and efficiently especially when the weather is cold, it will provide you the most reliable home heat and will reduce your chances of having your pipes freeze. If you are in need of a furnace tune-up contact Putman & Son’s certified plumbing professionals.
A water heater is an essential part of any modern home. It can be expensive to replace. The best way to get your money’s worth is to keep it running at maximum capacity for as long as possible. The following tips will help you maintain your water heater.
A fiberglass insulation jacket can help your water heater operate efficiently, especially if it is an older model. Insulation can reduce heat loss by as much as 45% which can translate to up to a 9% reduction on your water heating expenses.
Your water heater tank should be drained at least once per year. If it’s a newer system, you may only need to drain a few gallons. Check the water for debris and sediment.
If you notice either, then you should do a full flush. To do this, turn the temperature down and empty the tank. Turn the water flow on while the drain is still open and let water flush it out for a minute or so to remove remaining sediment.
Test your temperature-pressure relief valve once per year. This is done by discharging it a few times. Look for small leaks in the valve after testing.
Vacation mode is available on gas water heater models. This setting will keep the pilot light burning without heating the water. Vacation mode should be used when you are away from home for an extended period of time.
Perform an annual water heater inspection to look for leaks or corrosion on the tank, pipes, and in the general area of the appliance. Also, make sure nothing is being stored close to the water heater.
If you need an inspection, notice issues, or have questions, contact Putman & Son’s Plumbing. We are available to help customers throughout Southeast Michigan prolong the life of their water heaters and replace them when needed.
Our labor force has made this country great! Remember Putman & Son’s Plumbing is here for you 24/7. If you are in need of plumbing services anytime, contact our emergency hotline.
Many homeowners prefer to try to fix slow shower drains themselves before calling a plumber. There are several inexpensive methods you can try without the help of a professional.
Boiling water can help break down material that gets stuck in your drains. To begin, boil a pot of water on your stove. Keep in mind that you will have to carry it to the drain, so you should keep the area clear of obstacles, pets, and children before you move the boiling water to the bathroom.
Next, pour the boiling water down the drain. Take care not to splash hot water on bathtub accessories because the heat could cause damage.
A plunger can sometimes clear drains just like it does toilet clogs. You may want to apply petroleum jelly to the edges of the plunger to achieve a stronger seal. Add water to submerge the plunger then plunge. This method doesn’t always work but can help in some instances.
Remove the drain cover and look inside the drain. If you can see the clog, then you may be able to reach in and remove it. A flashlight can help you get a better view. You can reach in with your fingers to pull it out. You can wear gloves or use a tool instead if you don’t want to touch what’s down there. This method only works if the clog is close enough to reach.
What If I Can’t Clear a Shower Drain?
If you can’t find the clog or are unable to clear it, then you should call a plumber. Putman & Son’s Plumbing are available for all of your plumbing need. We can clear your shower drain and also identify the cause and make recommendations to prevent future blockages. Contact us today to schedule a visit.
Sewer leaks are often not on the main line and you need to investigate to find the source. The best way to do this is with a smoke test that will pinpoint the source of the leak and odor. If you cannot get to the bottom of a foul smell or leak, contact Putman and Son’s certified plumbers. We are available 24/7 to help you.
Sump pumps can be a great investment. This device is installed in the lowest part of your crawlspace or basement. It’s usually placed in a pit. Water can flow into the pit naturally or through drains. When a certain level is reached, the unit will turn on and pump the water out and away from the structure, so it doesn’t cause damage.
Types of Sump Pumps
Sump pumps fall into one of two categories: submersible and pedestal. Submersible models have a motor that’s mounted inside the unit and sealed. It’s more visually attractive, usually lasts longer, and tends to be safer for homes with children. The downside is that submersible pumps tend to cost more and are harder to reach.
Pedestal models are designed with the motor mounted above the sump. It is easier to see, which makes it easier to repair if needed. This type tends to cost less than submersible sump pumps but doesn’t usually last as long.
5 Signs That You Need a Sump Pump
Chances are you need a sump pump installed if:
If any of the above apply to you, now is the time to look for sump pumps. Paying for one now could save you thousands of dollars in water damage repairs in the future. Contact Putman & Son’s Plumbing today to make an appointment with a certified plumber about installing a sump pump in your home.
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