The holidays are supposed to be joyful, not stressful. But nothing kills the holiday spirit faster than a surprise plumbing emergency—especially when your house is full of guests, the turkey’s in the oven, and someone just used the last clean towel to mop up water from under the sink. The good news? A little prep and awareness can go a long way. Here’s how to keep your plumbing running smoothly during the most wonderful (and busiest) time of the year.
1. Remind Guests What Not to Flush
Let’s be real: holiday gatherings mean extra bathroom traffic. To prevent awkward moments and overflowing toilets, place a small sign or have a gentle reminder that only toilet paper goes down the toilet—no wipes, no paper towels, no hygiene products.
Bonus tip: Make sure every bathroom has a wastebasket within reach.
2. Go Easy on the Garbage Disposal
Cooking for a crowd? Your garbage disposal will be working overtime—but it’s not a trash can. Avoid putting these down the drain:
- Grease or oil
- Coffee grounds
- Potato peels
- Bones
- Stringy vegetables (like celery)
Scrape plates into the trash before rinsing, and run cold water while using the disposal to keep things flowing.
3. Space Out Showers
If you’ve got guests staying over, try to stagger showers at least 15 minutes apart. This helps your water heater keep up and gives drains time to clear—especially in older homes with slower pipes.
4. Fix Small Issues Before Guests Arrive
That slow drain or tiny drip you’ve been ignoring all year? Now’s the time to take care of it. The last thing you need is for a minor problem to turn major when your in-laws are in town.
A pre-holiday plumbing inspection can catch potential issues before they spiral into a full-blown disaster.
5. Know Where Your Water Shut-Off Valve Is (Just in Case)
If something does go wrong (like a burst pipe or major leak), knowing how to quickly shut off your water can save you from thousands of dollars in damage. Make sure everyone in the house knows where it is and how to use it—just in case.
7. Have a Plumber’s Number Handy
Even with the best prep, emergencies can still happen. Don’t wait until you’re panicking in the kitchen to Google local plumbers. Save a reliable number in your phone now, just in case. Many offer 24/7 emergency services—even on holidays.
Contact Rub-A-Dub Plumbing if You Experience a Plumbing Emergency During the Holidays in Tyler, TX and the Surrounding Areas
A little planning goes a long way when it comes to preventing plumbing headaches. Take care of small problems early, educate your guests gently, and give your pipes a little breathing room this season. Need help winterizing your plumbing or getting your home ready for guests? Give your local plumber (Rub-A-Dub Plumbing) a call—we’ll help you stay merry, bright, and water-damage free. Contact us today!