The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and making memories with the people closest to you. However, it can also be a challenging time for your home’s plumbing. With your influx of guests, extra cooking, and increased bathroom usage, it’s essential to take steps to protect your home’s plumbing. In this guide, we’ll explore tips for safeguarding different areas of your home, from toilets to kitchen sinks, to help ensure a worry-free and enjoyable holiday season.

Protecting your toilet

Watch what you flush

Remind guests to only flush toilet paper down the toilet. Discourage the disposal of wipes, paper towels, or other non-flushable items. Provide a waste bin in the bathroom for these items.

Regular checks

Before guests arrive, inspect your toilet for any leaks or signs of wear. A small issue can quickly escalate with increased usage. If you notice any problems, consider addressing them before the holiday rush.

Keep a plunger handy

Accidents happen, and a clogged toilet can be embarrassing. Ensure there’s a plunger in each bathroom so that minor blockages can be swiftly resolved without the need for a plumber.

Protecting your showers

Hair catchers

To prevent hair clogs in your shower drain, invest in hair catchers or strainers. These affordable devices trap hair before it can accumulate in the drain, reducing the risk of blockages.

Limit shower time

Encourage guests to take shorter showers to minimize water usage and reduce strain on your plumbing system. This not only helps your pipes but also contributes to water conservation. And it helps ensure there’s enough hot water for everyone who wants a shower.

Temperature moderation

Set your water heater to an optimal water temperature to prevent scalding and to avoid putting excessive pressure on your water heater. This simple tip can protect both your plumbing and your guests.

Protecting your bathroom sink

Avoid chemical-based drain cleaners

Chemical drain cleaners can be harsh on pipes and may lead to long-term damage. Instead, use a drain snake or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar for a more eco- and plumbing-friendly solution.

Regular cleaning

Periodically clean your bathroom sink to prevent buildup and ensure proper drainage. A simple mixture of baking soda and hot water poured down the drain can help keep things flowing smoothly.

Protecting your kitchen sink

Scrape plates before washing

Before rinsing dishes in the sink, scrape excess food into the trash. This prevents large food particles from clogging the drain and ensures a smoother flow of water.

Dispose of grease properly

Remind guests not to pour grease or cooking oil down the drain. These substances can solidify in pipes, causing blockages. Use a separate container for grease disposal and throw it away in the trash.

Use a sink strainer

Place a sink strainer over the drain to catch food scraps and debris. Empty it into the garbage regularly to prevent blockages and maintain efficient drainage.

Run cold water while using the garbage disposal

When using the garbage disposal, run cold water simultaneously to help solidify any grease or fat, making it easier for the disposal to break them down. Avoid putting fibrous or starchy foods down the disposal.

Want more tips for managing your home this holiday season?

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