The most common plumbing problems during holiday gatherings are clogged kitchen drains and garbage disposals, overflowing toilets, and running out of hot water. Extra guests and big meals put more strain on the plumbing than usual, all at the same time.
Kitchen Drains and Disposals
Holiday cooking produces grease, potato peels, and other scraps that can clog drains. Pouring turkey or bacon fat down the sink is one of the biggest causes. Let grease cool, scrape it into a container, and throw it in the trash. Feed the disposal small amounts at a time with plenty of cold water.
Toilets
More guests means more flushing, and visitors may not know which items should stay out of the toilet. A small trash can in each bathroom helps. Keep a plunger in every bathroom so guests are not left searching for one if a toilet clogs.
Hot Water
Several showers in a row, plus a running dishwasher, can drain a water heater quickly. Space out showers when possible, and run the dishwasher and laundry at night after guests are done. If your heater already struggles on normal days, a holiday crowd will make the problem obvious.
Before Guests Arrive
- Fix slow drains now instead of waiting
- Check that every toilet flushes well and does not run
- Make sure everyone in the house knows where the main shut-off valve is
- Put out a small trash can in each bathroom
- Keep the number of a plumber handy
If a drain backs up badly or a toilet will not stop overflowing, close the valve and stop using that fixture. If water is spreading and cannot be stopped, urgent help from a plumber may be the fastest way to save the day.
For fixing slow drains or a weak water heater before the season starts, you can book a pre-holiday check by calling JPR Plumbing at (833) 603-1840.