Putman & Son's Plumbing

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Southeast Michigan plumbers

When to Repair or Replace Your Water Heater

Your water heater is essential for daily comfort, but it’s often overlooked until problems arise. Common signs that your water heater may need attention include inconsistent water temperature, strange noises, discolored water, or visible leaks around the tank.

If your unit is over 10 years old, it’s time to consider a replacement. New models are far more energy-efficient, offering improved performance and reduced utility bills. On the other hand, minor issues like a faulty thermostat or heating element can usually be repaired by a professional.

Regular maintenance, such as flushing the tank to remove sediment and checking the anode rod, can extend the life of your water heater. Still, if repairs are becoming frequent, replacement may be the more cost-effective solution.

Putman & Son’s Plumbing provides fast, reliable water heater services. Whether you need a quick repair or a full upgrade, our licensed technicians are here to help you restore hot water to your home without delay.

Keep Your Kitchen Running Smoothly with a Healthy Garbage Disposal

Your garbage disposal works hard every day to keep your kitchen clean and efficient. But like any appliance, it needs a little care to avoid breakdowns and messy clogs. If your disposal is slow, noisy, or not draining, it could be a sign it’s time for maintenance—or a replacement.

Common issues stem from misuse. Pouring grease, fibrous foods (like celery or corn husks), coffee grounds, or bones into the unit can lead to jams and buildup. Over time, these blockages can damage your pipes or burn out the motor. The good news? Most of these problems are avoidable with a few simple habits.

Run cold water when using the disposal to help flush debris down the drain. Avoid dumping large quantities of waste at once. And once a week, grind up a few ice cubes or citrus peels to help clean the blades and keep odors at bay.

If your garbage disposal smells bad, hums without turning, or is leaking from the bottom, it’s time to call in the pros. Some issues can be repaired, but older units or those with worn-out parts are often better off being replaced. A new disposal can offer more power, quieter operation, and improved energy efficiency.

At Putman & Son’s Plumbing, we handle garbage disposal repairs, replacements, and new installations quickly and professionally. Our team can help you choose the right model for your kitchen needs and ensure it’s installed correctly for long-lasting performance.

Is Your Sump Pump Ready for Spring Rain?

With spring comes melting snow, heavy rain, and a higher risk of basement flooding. The best way to stay dry? A fully functioning sump pump. This essential system sits in a pit below your basement floor and automatically pumps out excess water that collects during wet weather. Without it, your basement could flood in just one storm.

Many homeowners forget about their sump pump—until it’s too late. Warning signs like strange noises, irregular cycling, or no operation at all are red flags your unit might be on the brink of failure. If your sump pump is over 7–10 years old, it could be time for a replacement, even if it seems to be working now.

Even if your system seems fine, routine testing is key. Pour a bucket of water into the pit to make sure it kicks on properly. Listen for unusual sounds, check the discharge line, and inspect the power source. Also, consider investing in a battery backup—especially in areas prone to power outages.

Neglecting your sump pump can result in costly water damage, mold growth, and ruined personal belongings. Taking a proactive approach with maintenance or upgrades can give you peace of mind during spring’s unpredictable weather.

At Putman & Son’s Plumbing, we specialize in sump pump inspections, repairs, and full installations. Whether you need a quick check or a brand-new unit, our experienced team will make sure your home stays protected.

Winter Plumbing Prep: Protect Your Home This Season

As temperatures begin to drop and winter draws closer, your plumbing system faces unique challenges that can lead to costly repairs if not properly addressed. Frozen pipes, burst water lines, and inefficient water heaters are just a few of the potential issues that can arise during the colder months. Taking a proactive approach to winter plumbing prep will help protect your home and ensure your plumbing operates smoothly throughout the season.

One of the most common winter plumbing problems is frozen pipes. When water inside a pipe freezes, it expands, often causing the pipe to crack or burst. To avoid this, insulate pipes in vulnerable areas such as basements, attics, crawl spaces, and garages. Foam pipe insulation or heat tape are great options for keeping pipes warm and reducing the risk of freezing. Additionally, sealing gaps and cracks around windows, doors, and walls near plumbing fixtures will help keep cold air out and protect your pipes from frigid temperatures.

Outdoor plumbing also requires special attention during the winter. Disconnect and drain all garden hoses, as leaving them attached to outdoor faucets can cause water to freeze and back up into the pipes. Store hoses indoors and, for added protection, install frost-proof spigots or insulated faucet covers. These simple steps can save you from major plumbing issues when temperatures plummet.

Your water heater plays a crucial role in keeping your household comfortable during the winter, so it’s important to ensure it’s working efficiently. Schedule a water heater inspection to check for any issues and to flush out sediment that can build up over time. If your water heater is older or struggling to meet your household’s needs, upgrading to a newer, more energy-efficient model can help reduce energy costs while keeping up with the increased demand for hot water during the colder months.

On particularly cold nights, letting faucets connected to vulnerable pipes drip slightly can prevent freezing. Even a small trickle of water helps keep the flow moving, reducing the risk of frozen pipes. Additionally, if you have a sump pump, make sure it’s functioning properly. Frozen discharge lines can lead to basement flooding during winter thaws, so clear any debris and consider insulating the discharge line to prevent freezing.

Knowing where your main water shut-off valve is located is another essential step in winter prep. In the event of a burst pipe or other plumbing emergency, quickly turning off the water supply can help minimize damage. Make sure everyone in your household knows how to find and use the shut-off valve.

If you’re planning to leave a vacation home or property vacant during the winter, take extra precautions to winterize it. Shut off the water supply, drain all pipes, and add antifreeze to plumbing fixtures like toilets and sinks to prevent freezing and damage. These steps can save you from costly repairs when you return in the spring.

Lastly, consider scheduling a professional plumbing inspection to identify and address potential issues before they become major problems. A licensed plumber can spot leaks, weak points in your system, and other vulnerabilities, ensuring your plumbing is ready for winter’s challenges.

Winter can be harsh, but with a little preparation, you can avoid common plumbing issues and protect your home. If you need help with winterizing your plumbing or addressing any concerns, Putman & Son’s Plumbing is here to help. Contact us at (248) 652-0990 or visit PNSPlumbing.com to schedule an inspection or service. Let us help you stay warm and worry-free this winter!

Smart Pipe Technologies

The plumbing industry is undergoing a revolutionary transformation with the rise of smart pipe technologies. These innovative systems combine advanced sensors, wireless connectivity, and real-time data analytics to monitor water flow, detect leaks, and even prevent damage before it happens. By integrating these systems with smartphones or smart home hubs, homeowners and businesses can gain unprecedented control over their plumbing systems, ensuring efficiency, sustainability, and peace of mind.

Smart pipe technologies offer a range of impressive features that redefine traditional plumbing. One of the most valuable is leak detection and prevention. These systems can identify even the smallest leaks, which often go unnoticed until they cause significant damage. Once a leak is detected, smart pipes can send alerts directly to a user’s smartphone and, in some cases, automatically shut off the water supply to prevent further damage. In addition to leak prevention, these systems also monitor water usage in real-time, helping homeowners identify inefficiencies and adopt water-saving practices. With detailed reports on daily, weekly, or monthly water consumption, users can optimize their water usage and reduce their utility bills.

Another key feature of smart pipe technologies is water quality monitoring. By analyzing factors such as pH levels, temperature, and the presence of contaminants, these systems ensure that the water flowing through your pipes is safe and clean. This is particularly important in areas with aging water infrastructure or concerns about water contamination. Additionally, smart pipes offer temperature control and freeze prevention, which can be lifesaving during cold weather. They monitor pipe temperatures and send alerts if they approach freezing, and some systems even include built-in heating elements to prevent frozen pipes, reducing the risk of costly repairs.

Beyond their technical capabilities, smart pipe systems provide the convenience of remote access and control. Homeowners can monitor their plumbing systems from anywhere, whether they’re at work or on vacation. With app-based controls, they can receive alerts, check water quality, and even address minor issues in real time. This level of accessibility adds another layer of security and convenience, ensuring that plumbing problems are addressed quickly before they escalate.

The benefits of smart pipe technologies go far beyond convenience. These systems offer early problem detection, reducing the risk of severe water damage and expensive repairs. By optimizing water usage, they also promote cost savings and eco-friendly practices, making them a sustainable choice for any home or business. Additionally, homes equipped with smart plumbing systems often have increased property value, as these advanced technologies appeal to modern buyers.

Smart pipes are not just limited to residential homes. Businesses and commercial buildings benefit from reduced maintenance costs and improved operational efficiency, while cities and municipalities use these systems to monitor water distribution networks, reduce water loss, and enhance service reliability. The versatility of smart pipe technologies makes them a valuable tool in a variety of settings.

As plumbing becomes more connected and proactive, smart pipe technologies are setting a new standard for water management. By combining cutting-edge sensors, IoT connectivity, and advanced analytics, they offer a forward-thinking approach to plumbing that saves money, reduces environmental impact, and enhances home safety. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to protect your property or a business aiming to improve efficiency, smart pipes are an investment in the future. Explore the possibilities of smart pipe solutions today and take control of your plumbing system like never before.

Tankless and Hybrid Water Heaters: The Energy-Efficient Choice

As homeowners seek ways to save on energy bills and reduce their environmental impact, tankless and hybrid water heaters have emerged as popular options. Unlike traditional water heaters, which store and constantly heat water, these energy-efficient alternatives offer hot water on demand or use hybrid technology to optimize energy consumption. Here’s why tankless and hybrid water heaters are great choices for a modern, eco-friendly home.

What is a Tankless Water Heater?

A tankless water heater, also known as an on-demand water heater, heats water only when needed. Instead of storing hot water in a tank, it uses high-powered burners or electric coils to heat water instantly as it passes through. This not only saves energy but also eliminates the need for a bulky storage tank, saving space in your home.

Benefits of a Tankless Water Heater

  1. Energy Efficiency
    Tankless water heaters are highly efficient, as they only heat water when required. This can save homeowners up to 30% on water heating costs compared to traditional storage tanks.
  2. Endless Hot Water
    With a tankless system, you’ll never run out of hot water, making it perfect for large families or homes with high hot water demand. As long as water flows through the heater, it stays hot.
  3. Space-Saving
    Tankless units are compact and can be installed in small spaces, freeing up room in your home for other uses.

What is a Hybrid Water Heater?

Hybrid water heaters, also known as heat pump water heaters, use electricity to move heat from the air into a tank to heat water, instead of generating heat directly. This process is extremely energy-efficient and can save up to 60% on energy costs compared to traditional electric water heaters.

Benefits of a Hybrid Water Heater

  1. Lower Energy Bills
    Hybrid water heaters are one of the most efficient options on the market. By moving heat instead of creating it, they use less energy and significantly reduce utility bills.
  2. Environmentally Friendly
    By using heat pump technology, hybrid water heaters have a lower carbon footprint and use less energy, making them a greener choice for homeowners.
  3. High Capacity
    Hybrid water heaters come with a tank that stores a large amount of hot water, making them ideal for families with high hot water usage.

Conclusion

Both tankless and hybrid water heaters provide efficient, environmentally friendly solutions for heating water in your home. Whether you prefer the on-demand convenience of a tankless system or the energy savings of a hybrid water heater, upgrading to one of these modern water heaters can reduce your energy bills and environmental impact while ensuring you have a steady supply of hot water.

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