As the holiday season approaches, many of us look forward to gathering with loved ones, enjoying festive meals, and celebrating cherished traditions. But while we’re busy decking the halls and wrapping gifts, one important aspect of your home often gets overlooked—How to Prepare Your Drains for the Holiday Season! So, you might be wondering: how can I prepare my drains for the holiday season?
Your plumbing system works overtime during the holidays, with extra cooking, dishwashing, and guests all putting a strain on your drains. The last thing you want is a clogged sink or a backed-up drain during a festive gathering. That’s why preparing your drains for the holiday season can be the best gift you give your home—and yourself!
Let’s be real. Clean drains are the gift that keeps on giving! So, here’s how you can make sure your drains are ready for the holiday hustle and bustle:
1. Give Your Drains a Pre-Holiday Cleaning
Over time, drains collect grease, food scraps, hair, soap scum, and other debris that can ultimately lead to clogs. Before the holiday rush, give your drains a good cleaning. You can use a natural solution of baking soda and vinegar followed by hot water to break down residue. For a deeper clean, consider having your drains professionally cleaned by a plumber. This ensures your plumbing system is clear and ready to handle the extra load.
2. Watch What Goes Down the Kitchen Sink
The kitchen is the heart of the home during the holidays, and it’s also where most plumbing problems start. Be mindful and aware of what goes down your kitchen sink. Avoid pouring fats, oils, and grease (FOGs) into the sink, as they can solidify and clog your pipes. Toss them in the trash to prevent clogs. Use a mesh strainer to catch food scraps and compost or dispose of them properly. This small step can save you big plumbing headaches.
3. Check for Slow Drains
A slow drain can be a warning sign of a bigger issue. If you’ve noticed your sinks, showers, or bathtubs draining slower than usual, don’t ignore it. The problem could worsen with increased use over the holidays. A quick fix now can save you from a plumbing emergency later. Simple drain cleaning methods can help, but if the problem persists, it may be time to call GPS Plumbing.
4. Ensure Garbage Disposals Are Ready for Action
Garbage disposals are a kitchen hero during the holidays, but they’re also prone to jams and clogs if not used properly. Make sure your disposal is in good working order before you host a holiday feast. To avoid problems, run cold water while using the disposal, and avoid putting bones, grease, coffee grounds, celery, potato peels, or eggshells down the disposal.
5. Be Mindful of Bathroom Drains
With more guests using your bathrooms, it’s important to keep those drains running smoothly. Use hair catchers in shower drains to prevent hair from clogging the pipes, and encourage guests to dispose of hygiene products like body wipes, baby wipes, cotton balls, and feminine products in the trash, not the toilet. A little prevention goes a long way in avoiding inconvenient bathroom clogs.
6. Know the Key Warning Signs of a Clogged Drain
It’s essential to prepare your drains for the holiday season to avoid unexpected clogs. Are there gurgling noises coming from your drains? Do you notice water backing up? Do you detect unpleasant odors? These are all signs of a developing clog. Address these issues as soon as possible to prevent a major blockage. Whether it’s a DIY fix or a professional intervention, solving the problem before it becomes a crisis will save you time, money, and holiday stress.
7. Schedule a Professional Drain Inspection
Drain preparation is key to keeping your home stress-free during the holidays. For peace of mind, schedule a professional drain inspection with GPS Plumbing before the holidays. Our experienced plumbers can identify potential problems, clear obstructions, and ensure your plumbing is ready to handle the holiday rush.
These could signal a clog forming in your system. Whether you need a DIY solution or professional help, addressing the issue early can save you from bigger problems. Discover the essential plumbing tools every homeowner should have on hand for emergencies in Bob Vila’s expert guide.
Contact GPS Plumbing for Holiday-Ready Drains
Preparing your drains for the holiday season ensures a stress-free home where you can focus on what matters most: spending time with loved ones. At GPS Plumbing, we specialize in drain cleaning and inspections to keep your plumbing in top shape.
Don’t wait until a clog ruins your celebration! Call us today at (469) 777-0217, or click Schedule Service Now to book your pre-holiday drain inspection.
Enjoy the holidays with confidence knowing your plumbing is handled by the experts at GPS Plumbing, proudly serving Frisco, Plano, McKinney, Prosper, Allen, Little Elm, The Colony, Celina, and surrounding North Texas communities!
