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The holiday season is a time for celebration, but it can also put a strain on your home’s plumbing. With more guests, heavier appliance use, and colder weather, many households experience unexpected plumbing emergencies during this busy season. The good news? A little preparation can go a long way in keeping your plumbing system running smoothly. Below, we’ll share practical tips to help you avoid common holiday plumbing issues and keep your festivities stress-free.
Prepare Your Drains for Holiday Cooking
Cooking elaborate meals is a big part of holiday traditions, but the aftermath can be rough on your kitchen drains. Grease, food scraps, and oils are some of the biggest culprits behind clogged drains during the season.
Here’s how to avoid drain troubles:
- Dispose of grease in a separate container instead of rinsing it down the drain. Once cooled, throw it in the trash.
- Use a sink strainer to catch food particles and prevent them from going down the pipes.
- Avoid putting fibrous or starchy foods, like potato peels and celery, into your garbage disposal.
Taking these precautions keeps your drains clear and prevents backups that could disrupt your holiday meals.
Protect Your Pipes from Freezing
Colder temperatures in Milwaukee can put your pipes at risk of freezing, which can lead to bursts and significant water damage. Protecting your home’s plumbing system is especially crucial during winter holiday gatherings.
To safeguard your pipes:
- Insulate exposed pipes in areas like basements or garages.
- Keep your thermostat set to at least 55°F, even if you plan to travel.
- On freezing days, let faucets drip slightly to keep water moving through the pipes.
- Seal any cracks or openings in walls to reduce cold air leaks.
Staying proactive can save you from the headaches and expenses associated with burst pipes.
Get Your Water Heater Holiday-Ready
If you’re hosting overnight guests, your water heater will work overtime as the demand for showers, laundry, and dishwashing increases. The last thing you want is for your water heater to fail in the middle of the festivities.
Take these steps to prepare your water heater:
- Flush your water heater to remove sediment buildup, which can reduce its efficiency.
- Check the temperature setting to ensure it isn’t above 120°F. Higher temperatures can overwork the system and lead to scalding.
- Schedule a water heater inspection if it’s been over a year since the last one.
By taking care of your water heater now, you’ll help ensure consistent hot water when it matters most.
Address Minor Plumbing Issues Before They Escalate
Small problems like a slow drain, leaky faucet, or running toilet can quickly become major inconveniences during the holidays. Addressing these issues ahead of time ensures they won’t spiral into emergencies when you least expect it.
Take stock of your plumbing system and don’t delay repairs. A professional inspection can help you identify hidden issues before they disrupt your celebrations.
Be Mindful of Increased Usage
With extra people using your bathroom, kitchen, and laundry appliances, your plumbing system will experience additional wear and tear. Simple habits can prevent unnecessary strain:
- Ask guests to avoid flushing items like wipes, feminine hygiene products, or cotton balls down the toilet.
- Break up laundry chores into smaller loads to avoid overwhelming your washing machine and drains.
- Run the dishwasher during off-peak hours to minimize water usage at one time.
By spreading out usage, you’ll reduce the risk of overloads and malfunctions.
Schedule Preventative Maintenance
Preventative care is one of the best ways to avoid plumbing trouble during the holidays. A licensed plumber can inspect your system, clear clogs, and ensure all components are functioning properly. Their expertise can give you peace of mind as you prepare for a busy holiday season.
Keep Plumbing Emergencies Off Your Holiday List
This holiday season, don’t let plumbing issues ruin your festivities. With preparation and care, you can avoid common problems and focus on what matters most – enjoying time with loved ones.
For expert help, contact Knight Plumbing, Inc. at (414) 420-0625. Our team of licensed plumbers is ready to handle your plumbing needs so you can enjoy a stress-free holiday season.