Fall Plumbing Checklist: Small Issues to Fix Before Cold Weather

Fall is one of the best times to take care of plumbing maintenance. Before cold weather arrives, homeowners should check for small leaks, slow drains, water heater issues, sump pump concerns, and outdoor plumbing problems.

A little preparation now can help reduce stress later when temperatures drop.

Check for Leaks

Look under sinks, around toilets, near water heaters, behind appliances, and along visible pipes. Even a small leak can cause water damage if it continues. Moisture, stains, musty smells, or soft flooring should be inspected.

Cold weather can make existing pipe issues worse, so fall is a smart time to catch problems early.

Inspect Outdoor Hose Bibs

Disconnect garden hoses before freezing weather arrives. Water left inside hoses or outdoor fixtures can freeze and create pressure problems. Check hose bibs for drips, leaks, or damage from summer use.

If an outdoor faucet leaks or does not shut off properly, schedule repair before winter.

Test Your Sump Pump

Fall storms and winter melt can put sump pumps to work. Test your pump by making sure it turns on, drains properly, and does not make unusual noises. If your basement has had water problems before, consider whether backup protection is needed.

Service Slow Drains

Slow drains should be addressed before holiday gatherings and colder months. Kitchen sinks, bathroom drains, floor drains, and laundry drains can collect buildup over time.

If a drain keeps clogging or smells bad, professional drain cleaning may help prevent a bigger backup.

Check Your Water Heater

Cold weather often means more demand for hot water. If your water heater makes noise, leaks, runs out of hot water quickly, or produces inconsistent temperatures, have it inspected before winter.

It is better to address water heater concerns before the unit fails.

Watch Water Pressure

High water pressure can strain pipes and fixtures, while low pressure may point to buildup or leaks. If your pressure has changed, a plumber can test the system and recommend repairs.

Prepare for Holiday Use

Fall leads into a busy season of cooking, guests, laundry, and heavier plumbing use. Make sure toilets flush properly, sinks drain well, and fixtures are not leaking before your home gets busier.

Call Putman & Son’s Plumbing

Putman & Son’s Plumbing can help Metro Detroit homeowners prepare for colder weather with leak checks, drain cleaning, sump pump service, water heater service, and plumbing repairs. Call today to schedule fall plumbing maintenance.

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Stormwater can become a serious issue for homeowners when heavy rain moves in and drainage systems are not prepared to handle it. Water that does not move away from the home properly can increase the risk of basement moisture, flooding, foundation concerns, and plumbing-related damage.

The good news is that there are practical ways to reduce risk and improve how your property handles stormwater.

Understand where water is collecting

The first step is paying attention to what happens around your home during heavy rain. Does water pool near the foundation? Do certain areas stay soggy long after the storm ends? Are basement moisture issues more noticeable after rainfall?

These signs can help reveal where water is not draining the way it should. Identifying patterns early can help prevent repeated damage later.

Check your sump pump system

If your home relies on a sump pump, that system should be one of the first things you evaluate before storm season intensifies. Your sump pump needs to activate properly, move water efficiently, and discharge it away from the home.

A pump that is aging, clogged, or unreliable can leave your basement exposed when groundwater rises. You may also want to read our article on whether you should consider a backup sump pump.

Pay attention to drains and sewer warnings

Stormwater can increase the demand on drainage systems and expose existing plumbing weaknesses. Slow floor drains, gurgling fixtures, or backup symptoms should not be ignored. These can signal that your system is already under stress.

If drainage problems are showing up during storms, it may be time for professional evaluation before the next rainfall makes the issue worse.

Keep water moving away from the home

Stormwater becomes more of a threat when it lingers near the structure. A key part of protection is making sure water has a clear path away from the house. Outdoor drainage conditions, grading, and plumbing discharge points all matter.

If water consistently collects near the home, it can increase pressure on the basement and surrounding areas. Even strong indoor plumbing systems can be affected if outdoor drainage problems are left unresolved.

Watch for signs of water intrusion

Sometimes stormwater issues show up indoors first. Damp basement walls, musty odors, staining, or recurring puddles can all be signs that water is finding its way in. These warning signs should be taken seriously, even if the water seems minor at first.

Early action can help prevent mold concerns, material damage, and more expensive repairs later.

Use a preventive approach

Dealing with stormwater is not just about responding after flooding happens. It is about preparing ahead of time. That may include sump pump inspection, drainage evaluation, plumbing checks, and addressing weak points before the next major storm.

If your home has had storm-related issues before, prevention becomes even more important.

Protect your home during storm season

Stormwater can put a lot of pressure on your home, especially during periods of heavy rain. The more prepared your property and plumbing system are, the lower your risk of flooding and water damage.

Putman & Sons Plumbing helps homeowners address storm-season plumbing concerns with practical solutions that support drainage, sump pump performance, and home protection.

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Homeowners often want to fix problems quickly, especially when something seems simple or urgent. But there are certain things around the house that are better left alone unless you know exactly what you are dealing with. Touching the wrong part of a plumbing or utility system can make a problem worse, create damage, or even put your safety at risk.

Here are five things homeowners should be cautious about and why it is often better to call a professional.

1. Damaged or corroded plumbing connections

If you notice a corroded pipe connection, rusted valve, or heavily worn fitting, it may be tempting to tighten it, move it, or test it. But older plumbing parts can be more fragile than they appear. A small shift can turn a slow leak into a burst leak or cause a fitting to fail completely.

If something looks deteriorated, it is better to have it evaluated rather than disturb it.

2. Sewer cleanouts you are unsure how to use

Sewer cleanouts can be important access points, but opening one without understanding the condition of the line can create a messy and unsanitary situation. If there is pressure in the system or a backup behind the cap, removing it carelessly can expose you to sewage and create a much bigger cleanup problem.

3. Water heater controls or gas connections

A water heater is not something homeowners should casually adjust without knowing what each component does. Gas connections, temperature settings, and valves all serve important functions. Changing the wrong setting or disturbing a connection can affect safety and system performance.

If your water heater is acting differently, making unusual noises, or producing less hot water, the safest next step is an inspection.

4. A sump pump that appears to be failing

If your sump pump is making odd noises, not activating properly, or showing electrical or mechanical issues, avoid forcing it to operate or taking it apart without experience. A failing sump pump often needs proper diagnosis, especially if the system protects a basement from flooding.

Because heavy rain can expose weaknesses fast, it is better to schedule service before a storm reveals a bigger issue.

5. Main shutoff valves that are old or stuck

Knowing where your main shutoff valve is can be very important, but that does not mean every valve should be exercised casually. Some older shutoff valves become stiff, worn, or fragile with age. Forcing one that is stuck may cause damage or create a leak.

If you are not confident in the condition of the valve, have it inspected so you know it will work properly in an emergency.

Why caution matters

A lot of home systems look simple from the outside, but the wrong move can create a larger repair or safety issue very quickly. Plumbing problems are not always just about the visible part. Pressure, wear, corrosion, and hidden conditions all matter.

Being cautious does not mean ignoring problems. It means choosing the safer and more informed response when something seems off.

Know when to call for help

If a plumbing component looks damaged, unfamiliar, or unsafe to handle, trust that instinct. The goal is to protect your home, not accidentally create a larger problem by trying to force a solution.

Putman & Sons Plumbing helps homeowners address plumbing concerns safely and professionally so small issues do not become bigger disruptions.

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Why Your Basement Smells Musty After a Summer Storm

A musty basement smell after heavy rain is not something homeowners should ignore. While it may seem like a normal part of summer humidity, that odor can be a sign of moisture problems, poor drainage, sewer gas, or sump pump issues.

The sooner you identify the cause, the easier it is to protect your home.

What Causes Musty Basement Odors?

Musty smells usually come from moisture. After a summer storm, water can collect around the foundation, enter through cracks, back up through drains, or linger in areas with poor airflow.

Common causes include:

• Damp walls or flooring
• Standing water near the sump pit
• Slow floor drains
• Sewer gas from dry traps
• Leaking pipes
• Poor ventilation
• Failed sump pump operation
• Previous water damage

If the smell comes and goes after rain, it may be connected to how water is draining around or inside your home.

Could It Be Your Sump Pump?

Your sump pump helps remove water from below your home. If it is not working properly, moisture may remain in the sump pit or basement area longer than it should.

A sump pump that runs constantly, fails to activate, or leaves water sitting in the pit should be checked by a professional. You can learn more about sump pump protection through Putman & Son’s Plumbing’s sump pump services.

Could It Be a Floor Drain?

Basement floor drains can also create odor problems. If the trap dries out, sewer gas may rise into the home. If the drain is slow, clogged, or connected to a larger sewer issue, the smell may get stronger after heavy rain.

Recurring basement drain odors should be inspected, especially if they are paired with gurgling, backups, or slow drainage.

Why Moisture Should Be Taken Seriously

A musty smell can be more than unpleasant. Persistent moisture can damage flooring, drywall, storage boxes, furniture, and finished basement areas. It can also create conditions where mold or mildew may develop.

For families using the basement as a playroom, laundry area, home office, or storage space, moisture control is especially important.

When to Call a Plumber

Call a plumber if you notice:

• Musty smell after every storm
• Water around the sump pit
• Slow basement drains
• Sewer odor
• Damp walls or flooring
• Gurgling drains
• Frequent sump pump cycling

Putman & Son’s Plumbing provides drain cleaning, sewer services, and sump pump support to help homeowners find the cause of basement plumbing concerns.

Protect Your Basement This Summer

A musty basement smell after a storm is your home’s way of telling you something needs attention. Do not wait for the next heavy rain to make the problem worse.

Call (248) 652-0990 or visit pnsplumbing.com to schedule service.

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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.

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Spring rains can quickly overwhelm a basement if your sump pump isn’t ready. This essential device pumps water out of your basement or crawlspace, keeping your home dry and protected against water damage. A working sump pump can save thousands in flood repairs and mold remediation.

To keep your sump pump running efficiently, it’s crucial to perform seasonal maintenance. Clean out debris, check for mechanical issues, and test the pump by pouring water into the pit. If it doesn’t start up immediately, it may be time for repairs or replacement.

Warning signs of sump pump failure include strange noises, frequent cycling, or failure to turn on at all. Installing a backup battery system is also a smart idea in case of power outages during storms.

At Putman & Son’s Plumbing, we offer expert sump pump services, including installation, maintenance, and emergency repairs. Our team ensures your system is ready before heavy spring showers arrive, so you can rest easy knowing your basement is protected.

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It is easy to forget about the outside and the maintenance that is necessary. Sadly, some homes are not built the way they are supposed to be and are slowly sinking and moving to the side. When there is poor outdoor drainage, it only causes damage to a home.

What does poor outdoor drainage look like?

The signs that your home has poor outdoor drainage are large puddles after rain. It is okay to see puddles after rain, but when they are massive and don’t go away, it could indicate that your yard and plumbing pipes are poor.

The causes of poor outdoor draining

It is not easy to point at just one cause of poor outdoor draining. However, the majority of poor outdoor draining occurs because of a burst pipe and a lack of drainage solutions. For example, a home in a dip does not have proper exit ramps for water. When it rains or there is a leak, the water stays in the center of the dip, as opposed to through an exit.

Solutions to Poor Outdoor Drainage

Thankfully, you are in luck as there are solutions to pour outdoor drainage problems. Sometimes, the solution is as easy as using gardening and water-loving plants. You can transplant and grow red maple trees and french roses as they absorb large amounts of water!

Sometimes, it is necessary to call a plumbing company in Southeast Michigan that is knowledgeable about creating slopes and run-offs outdoors to get rid of water.

Conclusion

In Southeast Michigan, the highest rainfall hits about 3.72 inches. This can cause severe floods and problems if you live in a home with poor outdoor drainage. With the solutions listed above though, it is possible to decrease the chances of flooded yards.

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Michigan winter is here! As we look outside at the first major snow of the season, it is a reminder to make sure that your plumbing is up to snuff, so that you do not end up with frozen or bursting pipes leading to the mess and expense of a flooded home. Snow and freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on your plumbing system. Make sure your sump pump is working sufficiently when this snow thaws. If you need plumbing services or maintenance, contact Putman & Son’s Plumbing 24/7 hotline.

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Your sump pump is essential in preventing flooding from heavy rainfall or storms. The pump is usually located in the basement in a designated hole, or sump, because that is the first place groundwater will appear before it reaches the first level in your home. If your pump fails, you could be at risk for water damage or other costly repairs. Click here for more information to know if you need to install a sump pump if you do not currently have one in your home.

About Sump Pumps

You should be able to find your home’s sump pump in a dedicated space in your basement floor. The pump works by detecting elevated water levels and pumping the excess water out through a discharge pipe. Some homes with high groundwater levels prone to flooding may have more than one sump pump in the basement.

Regular Maintenance

While sump pumps can last up to 10 years, they require regular maintenance to work when you need them to. This yearly maintenance includes testing the pump, clearing the lines or drainage pipes, and testing the unit to guarantee it works in case of an emergency. A professional should perform this maintenance to evaluate whether or not the pump needs replacing in the future.

It’s essential to ensure your sump pump is in good working condition at all times, so it’s ready to work correctly in case of an emergency. The certified staff at Putman & Son’s Plumbing know what to look for on all types of sump pumps and can recommend replacement or back up units if necessary. Our team offers service for the life of your pump, from installation to maintenance, repair, and replacement. Contact us today to have your pump inspected.

Putman & Son’s Plumbing is Rochester Hills’ and the surrounding areas preferred plumber for sump pump installation and maintenance.

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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.

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