As the holidays approach, your home is likely gearing up for more guests, more cooking, and yes, more plumbing usage. From hosting family gatherings to holiday meals, your plumbing system is about to work overtime! The last thing you want is a plumbing emergency right in the middle of a celebration. Here’s a quick guide on prepping your plumbing for the holiday season—so you can keep the festivities flowing smoothly.

1. Check for Leaks and Drips Early

• Leaky Faucets – Now’s the time to give those pesky drips the attention they need. Even minor leaks can become major issues with increased use, so get them fixed ahead of time.
• Water Heater Leaks – Check around your water heater for any signs of pooling water or rust. Addressing these signs early can prevent breakdowns during high-demand times.
• Why It Matters – Beyond avoiding potential surprises, fixing leaks early can save you money on water bills—a nice bonus for the holiday season!

2. Clear and Clean Your Drains

• Kitchen Drains – With all the cooking on the horizon, grease, oils, and food particles are bound to slip down the drain. A professional drain cleaning helps prevent clogs that could derail your dinner prep.
• Bathroom Drains – More guests mean more hair, soap scum, and gunk in your bathroom drains. Clean them out now to keep the water flowing smoothly.
• DIY Tip – Use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to clear minor drain build-up, followed by hot water. This keeps things fresh without harsh chemicals.

3. Inspect Your Water Heater

• Temperature Setting – Ensure your water heater is set to 120°F for optimal energy use and scald protection. This temperature is perfect for showering guests and holiday dishes.
• Annual Flush – If you haven’t flushed your water heater this year, now’s a great time to do it. This clears out sediment, helping your heater run more efficiently.
• Consider an Upgrade – If your water heater is over 10 years old or struggles to keep up, it may be time to replace it. Not sure? Schedule a pre-holiday inspection for peace of mind.

4. Toilet Check-Up: Don’t Let Your Throne Fail You

• Running Toilets – Toilets that run constantly can waste hundreds of gallons of water. Repairing or replacing worn-out flappers and fill valves now can save you from a holiday headache.
• Extra Precautions – Place a friendly reminder in guest bathrooms: only flush toilet paper. Even “flushable” wipes can cause major clogs.
• Consider a Pro Inspection – If your toilets are older or have had clogging issues, a professional inspection can help you avoid an untimely holiday plumbing fiasco.

5. Garbage Disposal TLC

• Clear and Clean – Grind a few ice cubes and a bit of lemon peel in your garbage disposal to clean and freshen it up before the big cooking rush.
• Avoid Trouble Foods – Fibrous foods (like celery), potato peels, and greasy leftovers are disposal nightmares. Keep a list of no-go items near the sink to help everyone steer clear of trouble.
• Reminder for Guests – Let your holiday helpers know to scrape plates over the trash and avoid feeding your disposal foods that can cause clogs or breakage.

6. Consider a Plumbing Inspection

• A professional inspection can identify hidden issues that might worsen with increased use. An experienced plumber will spot signs of wear and tear and can advise on repairs or maintenance before the holidays.
• If you’re hosting a larger crowd this year, it’s a great opportunity to invest in a thorough inspection for stress-free entertaining.

Get Ahead of the Holiday Rush

Holiday plumbing problems don’t just bring inconvenience; they also add extra stress to an already busy season. By taking these steps to prep your plumbing in advance, you’ll be well on your way to a holiday season that flows just as it should.

Want help getting your home holiday-ready? Contact us for a seasonal plumbing inspection and keep the only surprises this year under the tree!