The holidays are a time for celebration, good food, and spending time with the people who matter most. But with all the extra cooking, cleaning, and hosting, your plumbing system gets pushed harder than usual. A minor issue that goes unnoticed during the year can quickly become a major disruption when your home is full of guests. Preparing your kitchen and bathroom plumbing ahead of time is the key to avoiding holiday disasters. Here’s how to get your home ready before the festivities begin.
Give Your Kitchen Sink and Disposal Extra Attention
The kitchen usually sees the most action during the holidays—meal prep, dishwashing, cleaning, and more. That means your sink, drain, and garbage disposal need to be in top shape.
Check for slow drains, unpleasant odors, or minor leaks under the sink. These are early signs of clogs or worn components that could worsen under heavy use. Running hot water before and after using the disposal, scraping plates thoroughly, and avoiding fibrous or greasy foods can help reduce strain. If your disposal has been making unusual noises or draining slowly, it’s best to have it inspected before guests arrive.
Prevent Bathroom Clogs Before They Start
Extra guests mean more use of showers, sinks, and toilets. To keep everything flowing smoothly, take a few preventative steps:
- Clear slow drains: Hair and soap buildup can reduce flow. Clearing these blockages ahead of time prevents backups.
- Check toilet flush strength: Weak or inconsistent flushing may indicate developing issues in the drain line or tank components.
- Inspect for leaks: Even small leaks around the toilet base or sink fixtures can worsen quickly with added use.
Stocking bathrooms with items like trash bins, enough toilet paper, and gentle reminders about what should not be flushed can help prevent accidental clogs.
Reduce Water Heater Stress
With increased demand for hot water, your water heater will be working overtime. Flushing sediment buildup and checking the temperature setting (typically around 120°F) helps ensure consistent performance. If your water heater has been struggling lately, now is the perfect time for a tune-up to avoid cold showers during holiday gatherings.
Look for Warning Signs Early
Before the holidays, walk through your home and check for plumbing symptoms that hint at bigger issues:
- Gurgling drains
- Sewer odors
- Fluctuating water pressure
- Water stains under sinks
- Moisture around water supply lines
These might seem minor, but they often signal underlying problems that can quickly escalate during periods of heavy use. Addressing them early helps prevent unexpected emergencies.
Consider a Pre-Holiday Plumbing Inspection
A professional plumbing inspection is one of the best ways to avoid stress during the holidays. A trained plumber can identify hidden issues, clear drain lines, tighten loose connections, and ensure your kitchen and bathroom systems are ready for the extra workload.
An inspection not only prevents breakdowns—it also gives you the peace of mind to enjoy your celebrations without worrying about plumbing surprises.
For reliable plumbing services you can trust, contact Performance Plumbing today. Our team is here to make sure your home is ready for a stress-free holiday season!