How to Keep Your Drains Flowing Smoothly During Holiday Gatherings

The holiday season is a time for joy, laughter, and cherished moments with family and friends. However, hosting gatherings can put a strain on your home’s plumbing system, especially the kitchen sink and bathroom fixtures. To avoid unexpected clogs or other issues that could disrupt your celebrations, a little preparation and mindfulness can go a long way. Here’s a guide to protecting your pipes and keeping your home ready for festive hosting.

Mind What Goes Down the Sink

The kitchen is often the heart of the home, especially during the holidays. With all the cooking and baking, it’s easy to overlook the amount of food waste generated. To avoid clogging your pipes, follow these simple guidelines:

• Scrape off excess food particles from plates and utensils before washing them.
• Dispose of Cooking Grease Properly; let the grease cool, and solidify before tossing it in the trash. Alternatively, pour it into a disposable container for safe disposal.
• Use a sink strainer; catch food particles before they go down the drain. This simple tool can save you from dealing with a clogged sink during dinner prep.
• Run cold water while using your garbage disposal to help move food particles through the pipes.

Be Gentle with Your Garbage Disposal

Your garbage disposal isn’t a catch-all solution. Overloading it or sending unsuitable items down the chute can damage the disposal blades or clog the pipes. Avoid disposing of:

• Fibrous foods like celery and onion skins.
• Starchy items like potato peels can form a paste and clog the pipes.
• Bones, shells, or coffee grounds can wear out the disposal mechanism or settle in your pipes.

Instead, use your disposal sparingly and ensure it runs long enough with water to flush remnants through the system.

Prepare Your Bathroom for Guests

Bathrooms often see increased use during holiday gatherings, which can lead to plumbing issues if not properly managed.

• Provide a Wastebasket: Make it easy for guests to dispose of non-flushable items like tissues, wipes, or feminine hygiene products.
• Remind Guests (Politely): A small, friendly note in the bathroom can gently remind visitors of what shouldn’t go down the toilet.

Space Out Water Usage

With guests staying over, showers, laundry, and dishwashing can add significant strain to your plumbing.

• Schedule showers and laundry loads at different times to prevent overloading your system.
• Use water-efficient fixtures where possible, and run dishwashers only when full to conserve water and reduce stress on your plumbing.

Test and Clean Your Pipes Before the Holidays

A pre-holiday plumbing checkup can save you from midday disasters. Here’s what to do:

• Clean Your Pipes: Pour a mixture of hot water and baking soda, followed by vinegar, down your sinks to clear mild blockages.
• Inspect for Leaks: Look under sinks and around fixtures for any signs of water leakage or corrosion.

Call in Professionals: If your home has a history of clogs or slow-draining sinks, consider a professional inspection and cleaning before the festivities begin.

Keep an Eye on Your Sewer Lines

Sewer lines can become clogged due to the increased flow of wastewater during the holiday season. To avoid costly backups and repairs, consider the following:

• Be mindful of what you flush down the toilet, avoiding items like sanitary products, wet wipes, and paper towels.
• Consider installing a sewer line backup prevention device, which can help prevent sewage from flowing back into your home.

Don’t Forget About Your Water Heater

With the increased demand for hot water during the holiday season, your water heater can take a beating. To ensure it keeps running smoothly, consider the following:

• Check the temperature and pressure relief valve to ensure it’s working correctly.
• Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas, such as the garage or basement, to prevent them from freezing.
• Consider upgrading to a tankless water heater, which can provide a continuous supply of hot water and reduce energy consumption.

Prepare for the Worst

Despite your best efforts, accidents can still happen. To minimize the damage and ensure a swift resolution, consider the following:

• Know the location of your main shut-off valve and how to turn it off in case of an emergency.
• Keep a plunger and a drain snake on hand to help clear clogs.
• Have the contact information of a reliable emergency plumbing service readily available.

By following these simple tips, you can help protect your pipes and plumbing system during the holiday season, ensuring your gatherings remain joyful and stress-free.

Know When to Call for Help

Even with all precautions, plumbing emergencies can still occur. Be prepared with the contact information of a trusted 24-hour emergency plumber who can quickly resolve unexpected issues.

A Stress-Free Holiday Starts with Prepared Plumbing

A little proactive effort can save you from the inconvenience and stress of plumbing problems during your holiday gatherings. By taking care of your pipes and using mindful practices, you’ll create an environment where everyone can focus on what truly matters—enjoying each other’s company.

Don’t let clogged pipes ruin your holiday cheer! If you’re preparing your home for holiday guests and want peace of mind about your plumbing, contact us at All Star Plumbing & Restoration for a professional inspection or emergency service. Schedule an appointment and ensure your plumbing system runs smoothly throughout the holiday season. Our team is available 24/7 to ensure your holidays flow smoothly, no matter what!