The holidays are all about family, food, and festive memories—not frantic calls to the plumber while the turkey’s in the oven. But let’s be real: with more guests, more cooking, and more flushes, your plumbing is under an immense amount of pressure this time of year. And nothing spoils a cozy celebration like a clogged sink or a bathroom backup. Here’s how to keep things flowing smoothly and avoid a plumbing emergency during the most wonderful time of the year:
1. Think Before You Toss (Especially in the Kitchen)
Your garbage disposal is not a trash can. While it can handle small scraps, certain holiday favorites can turn it into a nightmare.
Keep these out of the disposal:
- Grease, fats, and oils (they solidify!)
- Potato peels
- Bones
- Eggshells
- Coffee grounds
- Pasta or rice (they expand!)
Scrape leftover scraps into the trash or compost bin, and wipe greasy pans with a paper towel before rinsing.
2. Don’t Treat Your Toilet Like a Trash Bin
More guests mean more trips to the bathroom—so it’s a great time to remind everyone that only toilet paper should go down the toilet.
No flushing:
- Wipes (even “flushable” ones)
- Tissues or paper towels
- Feminine products
- Cotton balls or swabs
Leave a small trash can nearby so guests have a place to toss non-flushables.
3. Space Out Showers
Hosting overnight guests? Space out showers by at least 10–15 minutes. It helps your hot water tank keep up and prevents overloading your drains.
Bonus tip: If your water pressure drops or drains are slow, it might be a sign your plumbing needs a pre-holiday tune-up.
4. Watch Your Water Lines
If your fridge has a water dispenser and/or an ice maker, make sure the supply line is in good shape. A cracked or leaking line can quietly cause big trouble—especially when your kitchen’s getting heavy use.
5. Fix Minor Issues Before the Festivities
A slow-draining sink, gurgling toilet, or dripping faucet might seem minor—but under holiday stress, these little quirks can become full-blown disasters. Take care of them now before guests arrive and the stuffing hits the fan.
Contact Cleary Plumbing & Air for All Your Plumbing Needs During the Holidays in the Palm Beaches
Save the surprises for gift-giving… not for your plumbing! Because let’s face it – no one wants to spend their holiday dealing with an overflowing toilet or a backed-up sink. With a little planning (and a few friendly reminders), you can avoid the drama and keep the season merry and clog-free.
If a plumbing problem does sneak in like the Grinch, don’t worry - we’re here to help.
But if you follow these tips, chances are you’ll be spending your holiday with pie and presents, not plungers. Contact Cleary Plumbing & Air today!