The holidays are a time for gathering with friends and family, but having a house full of guests can put extra strain on your plumbing system. From overloaded drains to overused toilets, the increased demand can lead to inconvenient plumbing issues. With a little preparation and some simple precautions, you can keep your plumbing in top shape and avoid holiday headaches.
1. Prep Your Drains
Your kitchen sink and garbage disposal will likely see heavy use with all the cooking and cleaning during the holidays. To prevent clogs:
- Avoid pouring grease, oil, or coffee grounds down the drain.
- Use a drain strainer to catch food scraps and debris.
- Run cold water while using the garbage disposal to help flush waste through.
2. Be Kind to Your Toilet
Extra guests mean extra flushes. Remind everyone to avoid flushing items like wipes, paper towels, or feminine hygiene products down the toilet. Keep a small trash can in the bathroom to encourage proper disposal of these items.
3. Water Heater Check-Up
With more people showering, your water heater may struggle to keep up. Set the thermostat to a comfortable but safe level (around 120°F) to ensure everyone has enough hot water. Stagger showers and laundry loads to give the water heater time to recover.
4. Protect Against Frozen Pipes
If you decide on a holiday vacation in a colder climate, such as a mountain chalet, frozen pipes are a risk. Insulate exposed pipes, keep your thermostat set to at least 55°F, and let faucets drip slightly overnight to prevent freezing. The last thing you want is to wake up on Christmas morning without running water!
5. Plan for Emergencies
Even with the best preparation, plumbing issues can still happen. Keep a plunger, drain snake, and plumber’s contact information handy in case of emergencies.
6. Know When to Call a Professional
If you experience slow drains, persistent clogs, or water pressure problems before your guests arrive, address them early. A professional plumber can resolve these issues to ensure your home is ready for the holiday crowd.
By taking these proactive steps, you can ensure your plumbing system handles the holiday rush, leaving you free to focus on what matters most—enjoying time with loved ones.