The holiday season is upon us, and that means gathering with friends and family, enjoying festive meals, and, of course, putting your home’s plumbing to the test. At Mark Johnson Plumbing, we understand how frustrating it can be to deal with plumbing problems during holidays when everyone would rather be relaxing, celebrating, or indulging in seasonal treats. That’s why we’re here to share a few simple holiday plumbing tips to help you prevent plumbing issues and keep your system running smoothly throughout the festivities.
First, it’s important to remember that your kitchen sink and garbage disposal are likely to work overtime this season. From washing dishes to rinsing off cookware and disposing of food scraps, the increased activity can strain your system. One key piece of advice we give our customers is to avoid putting hard-to-grind items, such as bones or fibrous vegetables, down your disposal. Instead, toss them in the trash or compost bin to reduce the risk of clogs. Additionally, always run cold water while using the disposal and let the water run for a few seconds after turning it off to ensure the drain is clear.
Another common issue we see is clogged toilets. With more guests using your facilities, it’s essential to remind everyone of what can and can’t be flushed. Provide a small wastebasket next to the toilet for non-flushable items like wipes, tissues, and feminine hygiene products. Ensuring only toilet paper and waste go down can help prevent plumbing issues and save you from dealing with messy overflows.
While you’re busy in the kitchen and accommodating extra guests, you might not think much about your water heater, but it’s working hard to meet the demands of increased hot water usage. Consider turning up your water heater’s thermostat a notch or two (but no higher than 120°F) to ensure there’s enough hot water for everyone. Just be careful not to raise it too high, as scalding can be a safety hazard. If your water heater isn’t performing as well as it should, it might be time for a service check or even an upgrade. Feel free to browse our plumbing services for more information on maintenance and repairs.
Of course, not every problem can be prevented. Sometimes, despite your best efforts, you may encounter unexpected plumbing problems during holidays. If a stubborn clog or a sudden leak threatens to derail your festivities, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional. At Mark Johnson Plumbing, our team is always ready to help you tackle any issue. Whether you need quick advice or immediate assistance, our contact page makes it easy to get in touch.
In addition to these holiday plumbing tips, scheduling a routine inspection before the festivities can go a long way in helping you prevent plumbing issues. A quick check-up can identify potential problems and allow for repairs before guests arrive. Regular maintenance also extends the life of your plumbing fixtures and appliances, ensuring they continue to serve you well for many holiday seasons to come.
Don’t let plumbing woes dampen the holiday spirit. With a bit of preparation, proper maintenance, and the right professional support, you can keep the good times flowing.
From all of us at Mark Johnson Plumbing, we wish you a cheerful, stress-free holiday filled with laughter, good food, and smooth-running pipes.