The holidays bring joy, family gatherings, and plenty of delicious meals—but they can also bring extra stress to your plumbing. From visiting guests to heavier kitchen usage, your home’s plumbing system often works overtime this time of year. A little preparation and care can go a long way in preventing holiday plumbing headaches.

1. Be Kitchen-Wise

Holiday feasts mean extra food preparation, but be cautious with your kitchen sink and garbage disposal. Avoid pouring fats, oils, and grease down the drain as they can harden and cause clogs. Dispose of stringy vegetables, potato peels, and coffee grounds in the trash instead of the disposal. Always run cold water when using your disposal to keep it running smoothly.

2. Prepare for Guests

Extra guests mean extra water usage, so take a few steps to avoid plumbing overload. Give your water heater time to recover between showers, and consider waiting 10-15 minutes between uses. Let guests know what’s safe to flush and keep a small wastebasket in the bathroom for non-flushable items like wipes or feminine products.

3. Prevent Freezing Pipes

If temperatures drop, ensure exposed pipes are insulated and keep your home heated, even when you’re away. Letting a trickle of water flow from faucets can prevent pipes from freezing and bursting.

4. Schedule Maintenance Early

A pre-holiday plumbing check-up can identify potential issues before they escalate. Addressing small problems now ensures your system is ready to handle the season’s demands.

Protect your plumbing this holiday season with these simple tips. For expert advice or emergency help, Plumbing Plus is here for you—providing reliable, stress-free solutions so you can focus on enjoying the festivities. Reach out today and keep your home running smoothly through the holidays!