Avoid Holiday Plumbing Disasters

The holiday season is a wonderful time filled with family, food, and festivities. But amid all the excitement, our kitchens and bathrooms often face heavy usage. To help you focus on creating joyful memories instead of dealing with sudden repairs, here's a practical guide to prepping your plumbing systems for the holidays.

Prepare Your Drains and Garbage Disposal

Start by ensuring your drains and garbage disposal are clear and ready. Use sink strainers to catch food debris, and never pour grease or cooking oil down the drain—let it cool and throw it in the trash. Avoid tossing fibrous vegetables, bones, and starchy foods like potato peels into the garbage disposal to keep it running smoothly.

Inspect and Maintain Plumbing Before Guests Arrive

Take some time to check faucets, toilets, and visible pipes for leaks. Clean drains and disposals with a mix of baking soda and vinegar, and address any pending repairs or fixture upgrades now while there's still time.

Prevent Bathroom Clogs

Ensure every bathroom is equipped with a trash can and offer a light reminder of what not to flush (e.g., wipes, feminine products). Also, keep plungers in guest-accessible spots just in case.

Manage Hot Water Demand

Lower your water heater temperature slightly to help conserve energy. Stagger showers and avoid using the dishwasher and laundry simultaneously to ensure plenty of hot water when needed.

Address Problems Early

Don't ignore slow drains, bad smells, or small leaks. Early fixes prevent holiday disasters and keep your home running smoothly.

With a few proactive plumbing checks and quick adjustments, you can keep the focus on family, food, and fun this holiday season, free from the worry of emergency repairs. Prepping your home in this thoughtful way ensures everyone enjoys a warm and comfortable celebration.