Tips to Prevent Plumbing Issues During the Holidays

The holiday season is just around the corner, in the middle of all the festivities, hustle and bustle and guests arriving everyday, everything needs to be at point and if in such a situation your plumbing often gets overlooked, there’s nothing more embarrassing than that. 

Plumbing issues at home can rear their ugly heads anytime. With increased water usage and more people in the house, the strain on your plumbing system can lead to some of the most common plumbing issues, turning your celebrations into a plumbing nightmare. To help you avoid these problems, here are some practical tips to keep your plumbing in good shape during this festive time of year.

1. Inspect Your Plumbing System Before Guests Arrive

Before your holiday guests arrive, take time to perform a thorough plumbing inspection. Look out for signs of potential problems like leaky faucets, slow-draining sinks, or unusual noises coming from your pipes. Identifying these minor issues early can save you from dealing with major plumbing emergencies during the holiday season. If you notice anything unusual, it’s wise to call a plumber to resolve the issue promptly.

2. Be Mindful of Your Kitchen Sink Drains

With holiday cooking in full swing, your kitchen sink is likely to see more action than usual. In the UK, where garbage disposals are uncommon, food remnants can still end up slipping down the drain, leading to potential blockages. To prevent issues, avoid pouring grease, oil, or fat down the sink, as they can solidify and cause clogs. Similarly, be cautious with fibrous vegetables (like celery) and starchy foods such as potato peels, which can contribute to buildup over time. Instead, dispose of these items in your food waste bin.

Encourage everyone in your household to be mindful when using the kitchen sink. Use sink strainers to catch food scraps, and regularly clean the strainer to keep water flowing freely. If you notice slow drainage, it may be an early sign of a blockage—address it promptly to avoid larger plumbing problems.

3. Monitor Water Heater Performance

Hot water is a must during the winter months, especially with more people taking showers. To avoid running out of hot water, adjust your water heater’s temperature to around 120°F (49°C)—a safe and efficient setting. If your water heater is old or struggling to meet increased demand, consider having it inspected or serviced by a professional.

Limescale build-up in the water heater can reduce its efficiency, so flushing it out annually is recommended. Ensuring your water heater is in good condition can prevent plumbing issues like inconsistent hot water or a complete breakdown during the holidays.

4. Prevent Clogs in Toilets

Toilets are another critical area prone to common plumbing problems during the holidays. With more people using the facilities, the risk of clogs increases. Keep a small waste bin in the bathroom to encourage proper disposal of such items.

If you have children in the house, ensure they understand the importance of not flushing toys or other foreign objects down the toilet. Investing in a high-quality plunger is also a good idea to address minor clogs before they escalate.

5. Be Aware of Water Pressure Issues

Sudden changes in water pressure can indicate underlying plumbing problems, such as a burst pipe or mineral build-up in the pipes. If you notice weak water flow in your sinks or showers, it’s essential to address the issue before your guests arrive.

In some cases, water pressure problems can stem from blockages or leaks within the plumbing system. Performing a routine check or calling a plumber for a professional inspection can help identify and resolve the problem before it leads to significant water damage.

6. Protect Your Pipes From Freezing

Freezing temperatures can cause pipes to burst, leading to extensive damage to your home and costly repairs. To prevent this, insulate any exposed pipes, especially those in unheated areas like the garage or attic. You can use foam pipe insulation or heat tape for added protection.

During particularly cold nights, let your faucets drip slightly to keep water flowing through the pipes, which reduces the risk of freezing. If you plan to be away during the holidays, set your thermostat to a consistent temperature to keep your plumbing system warm.

7. Schedule Maintenance for Washing Machines

With more people staying over, your washing machine will likely be working overtime. Overloading the machine or failing to address minor issues can result in leaks or a breakdown. Inspect the hoses for cracks or signs of wear and replace them if necessary. It’s also a good idea to clean the lint filter regularly to prevent clogs and improve efficiency.

Consider running smaller loads to reduce the strain on your washing machine, especially when cleaning pet bedding. Pet hair can build up in your machine over time, causing blockages or even damage. Fortunately, pet hair dissolvers are now available and can be run through your machine to help manage this issue—perfect for keeping your furry friends' bedding clean without risking your appliance.

Additionally, avoid leaving your washing machine running while you’re out of the house. This reduces the risk of potential water damage in case of a malfunction. Regularly clean your washing machine’s filter and run maintenance cycles to keep it in good working condition.

8. Don’t Overlook Outdoor Plumbing

While your focus may be on indoor plumbing, outdoor plumbing fixtures also need attention. Disconnect and store garden hoses, and shut off outdoor water supplies to prevent frozen pipes. Inspect any exterior pipes or faucets for leaks, as even a small issue can escalate into a plumbing emergency during colder months.

If you have a sump pump, test it to ensure it’s working correctly. Heavy rains and snowmelt during the holiday season can cause basement flooding if the sump pump fails.

9. Know When to Call a Plumber

Despite your best efforts, emergency plumbing issues can still occur. Knowing when to call a plumber can save you time and stress. For instance, if you experience a burst pipe, sewage backup, or complete loss of water, these are situations that require immediate professional intervention.

10. Educate Your Guests

Finally, use subtle reminders to help holiday guests navigate your home without awkward conversations. Ensure bins are clearly visible and conveniently placed near sinks and toilets to encourage proper disposal of waste. Simple measures, like placing a small sign or reminder in the bathroom or kitchen about what shouldn’t go down the sink or toilet, can be helpful.

If children are part of the festivities, supervise them around the kitchen and bathroom to avoid accidental messes or plumbing mishaps. A little preparation can go a long way in preventing issues while keeping everyone comfortable during the holiday season.

Place friendly reminders near sinks and toilets, and ensure you have plenty of bins available in bathrooms and kitchens. These small measures can help avoid some of the most common plumbing issues during the holiday season.

Plumbing issues can put a damper on your holiday celebrations, but with a little preparation and vigilance, you can avoid the most common problems. From inspecting your plumbing system and maintaining your appliances to educating your guests and insulating pipes, these tips will help you safeguard your home and ensure a stress-free festive season.

Remember, when in doubt, don’t hesitate to call a plumber. Addressing minor plumbing problems early can prevent them from escalating into costly plumbing emergencies. With these tips, you can enjoy the holiday season with peace of mind, knowing your home’s plumbing is ready to handle the festivities.

Corvee Property Services, the perfect solution for your holidays!

At Corvee Property Services, we understand how vital a reliable plumbing system is, especially during the busy holiday season. Our advanced plumber services are designed to tackle everything from routine maintenance to emergency repairs, ensuring your home stays stress-free and functional. Whether it’s fixing leaky faucets, resolving water pressure issues, or handling a burst pipe, our expert team is ready to help. Don’t wait for plumbing problems to escalate—trust the professionals at Corvee to keep your home running smoothly. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and experience the Corvee difference!