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The holiday season brings joy, family gatherings, and plenty of home-cooked meals. But with the extra cooking, guests, and cold weather, it can also put your plumbing system under added stress. Taking a few proactive steps now can help you avoid unexpected issues during the busiest (and most festive) time of year.
Inspect Your Drains and Garbage Disposal
Between holiday cooking and dishwashing, your drains and garbage disposal see a big increase in use. Grease, food scraps, and other debris can build up quickly, leading to clogs and slow drains. Before the season kicks off:
Run hot water through your drains to flush out buildup.
Avoid pouring grease down the sink—it solidifies and clogs pipes.
Use your disposal wisely by grinding small amounts at a time and following with cold water.
A clear drain now can prevent a plumbing emergency later.
Check Your Water Heater
If you’re expecting guests, your water heater will work harder to keep up with demand. The last thing you want is running out of hot water in the middle of the holidays. Be sure to:
Flush your water heater to remove sediment buildup.
Check the temperature setting (120°F is ideal).
Schedule an inspection if it hasn’t been serviced recently.
This quick prep ensures everyone has enough hot water for showers, cooking, and cleaning.
Protect Pipes from Freezing Temperatures
In many areas, the holiday season means dropping temperatures. Frozen pipes are a major concern and can lead to costly water damage. To prevent this:
Insulate exposed pipes, especially in basements, attics, and garages.
Keep a steady indoor temperature, even if you’re away.
Let faucets drip slightly during extremely cold nights to keep water moving.
A little prevention goes a long way toward avoiding burst pipes during the coldest months.
Give Toilets and Bathrooms Extra Attention
With extra guests in your home, your bathrooms will get more use than usual. To minimize plumbing stress:
Remind guests not to flush anything other than toilet paper.
Place a wastebasket nearby to reduce the risk of blockages.
Fix any minor leaks or running toilets now before they become bigger problems.
These small steps can help your bathrooms handle the holiday rush smoothly.
Schedule a Professional Inspection
If you want peace of mind before the holidays, consider scheduling a plumbing checkup. A professional can spot small issues before they turn into holiday disasters, ensuring your system is ready for the season.
Be Holiday-Ready with Mom & Pop Plumbing
Preparing your plumbing for the holiday season may not be the most festive task, but it’s one of the smartest ways to keep your celebrations stress-free. From drains and water heaters to frozen pipe prevention, a little preparation goes a long way.
For expert help and reliable plumbing service, contact Mom & Pop Plumbing today at (860) 772-0622. Let us help you keep your home running smoothly all season long.