BLOG How to Prevent Plumbing Disasters During the Holiday Season May 07, 2025

The holiday season is a time for family gatherings, delicious feasts, and festive celebrations. However, with the increased use of your home's plumbing system during this busy period, the likelihood of plumbing disasters can rise significantly. SOS Plumbing understands the importance of a smoothly running household, especially during the holidays. Here’s how you can prevent plumbing mishaps and keep your home’s system functioning efficiently.

Begin by keeping an eye on your kitchen drains. With more meals being prepared, food particles like grease, oils, and large scraps can easily find their way into the sink, leading to stubborn clogs. To prevent this, ensure that your family and guests scrape plates into the trash before rinsing. It's also helpful to run warm water down the drain and regularly use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to keep it clear and fresh.

Next, consider the increased demand on your bathrooms. Extra visitors mean more showers, more flushing, and more water consumption overall. To avoid toilet blockages, make sure only human waste and toilet paper are being flushed—items like wipes, cotton balls, and feminine hygiene products should be disposed of in the trash. Investing in a wastebasket for each bathroom can gently remind guests to dispose of trash appropriately.

Water heaters can also face significant pressure during the winter holidays, as cooler temperatures outside demand hotter showers inside. It’s a smart precaution to check and adjust your water heater settings before guests arrive. Setting it to an optimal temperature of around 120 degrees Fahrenheit can prevent burns and efficiently manage energy use. Consider scheduling a tune-up with SOS Plumbing to ensure your unit is operating at peak performance.

Outdoor decorations are a holiday hallmark, but when installing them, be cautious of where extension cords and lights are placed. Ensure they are clear from any water sources such as outdoor faucets or pipes to avoid electrical hazards and damage to plumbing fixtures.

Furthermore, it’s prudent to inspect exposed pipes in unheated areas like basements or garages. These pipes are susceptible to freezing, which can lead to bursting and flooding. By insulating these pipes with foam sleeves or wrapping them in heat tape, you create a safeguard against cold temperatures. For additional peace of mind, letting your faucets drip slightly can also prevent freezing.

Preventive maintenance should be part of your holiday preparations. Regularly checking for leaks under sinks, in the basement, or around toilets can catch minor issues before they escalate. If you notice any issues, contacting SOS Plumbing promptly for a professional evaluation can protect your home from more significant damage.

Swift action and preventive care can make all the difference when it comes to enjoying a stress-free holiday season. A well-maintained plumbing system ensures that your celebrations go off without a hitch, and your guests leave with nothing but memories of joyous company and delightful meals.

For expert assistance and further advice, reach out to SOS Plumbing. Our experienced team is dedicated to keeping your plumbing in perfect working order, allowing you to focus on creating cherished holiday memories with family and friends. Stay ahead of possible problems, and ensure your home runs smoothly during this festive time.