Increased activities and food preparation can put a strain on your plumbing system during this time for gathering with loved ones and indulging in delicious food. To ensure a smooth and stress-free holiday, it’s essential to take preventive measures and be aware of potential plumbing issues.

Garbage Disposal: The Silent Culprit

Thanksgiving plumbing can be particularly challenging when it comes to garbage disposal. To prevent clogs and ensure proper function, follow these tips:

• Dispose of fibrous foods in the trash: Foods like celery, potato peels, and turkey skin can clog the disposal and thus should be avoided in the disposal.
• Use cold water: Running cold water while using the disposal helps to flush away food particles and prevent clogs.
• Avoid excessive use: Overloading the disposal can lead to clogs. Dispose of food waste in small batches.
• Clean regularly: To prevent buildup and odor, run a lemon or orange peel through the disposal once a week.
• Use a disposal cleaner: A commercial disposal cleaner can help break down stubborn food particles and eliminate odors.

Handling Large Gatherings: A Plumbing Challenge

When hosting a large Thanksgiving gathering, it’s important to be prepared for increased water usage and potential plumbing strain.

• Check for leaks: Inspect your pipes and faucets for any signs of leaks. Repairing leaks before the holiday can prevent more serious problems.
• Maintain septic systems: If you have a septic system, ensure it’s pumped regularly to prevent backups.
• Limit water usage: Encourage guests to be mindful of water consumption, especially during peak times like showers and dishwashing.
• Consider a temporary toilet: For large gatherings, renting a portable toilet can help alleviate strain on your plumbing system.
• Run water intermittently: If you’re concerned about your plumbing system’s capacity, run water intermittently to prevent pipes from freezing.

Kitchen Mishaps: A Common Occurrence

The kitchen is often the busiest area of the house during Thanksgiving. To prevent plumbing disasters, follow these guidelines:

• Avoid overloading the sink: A sink full of dirty dishes can lead to clogs. Wash dishes as you go or use a dishwasher.
• Be careful with hot water. Hot water can scald and also damage pipes. Use caution when handling hot water, especially around children.
• Dispose of grease properly: Never pour cooking grease down the drain. It can solidify and cause clogs. Instead, let the grease cool and pour it into a container for disposal.
• Use a drain strainer: A drain strainer can help prevent food particles and other debris from clogging your sink drain.
• Avoid using harsh chemicals: Harsh chemicals can damage your pipes and fixtures. Opt for natural cleaning solutions or mild detergents.

Additional Tips:

• Prepare for emergencies: Have a plumber’s contact information readily available in case of a plumbing emergency.
• Consider a plumber’s helper: A plumber’s helper can be a valuable tool for unclogging drains and toilets.
• Inspect your pipes: Before Thanksgiving, inspect your pipes and drains for any signs of wear or damage.
• Insulate exposed pipes: Insulating exposed pipes can help prevent freezing during cold weather.
• Avoid using a plunger on a blocked toilet: If a plunger doesn’t work, it’s best to call a plumber to avoid damaging the toilet.

By following these Thanksgiving plumbing tips, you can help prevent plumbing problems and ensure a smooth and enjoyable Thanksgiving. Remember, a little prevention can go a long way in avoiding costly repairs and unnecessary stress.

 

How Plumbing 911 Can Help

Plumbing 911 is a reputable plumbing firm made up of professionals. Plumbing 911 offers full service for both residential and commercial properties, including everyday maintenance and emergency needs. Our professionals are skilled in fixing clogged drains and toilets, leaky and damaged faucets and pipes, low water pressure, running toilets, sump pumps, and water heaters. For a free inspection in your area, call Plumbing 911 at 1-866-720-0911, schedule an appointment today, or send an email. We serve Medina, Stark, Portage, Summit, Cuyahoga, Lake, Sandusky, Erie, Huron, Ottawa, Seneca, and Geauga counties.