Don't let Plumbing Issues Bog Down Your Holiday Plans

Happy Holidays! Are you expecting guests and extended family this year? As most holiday celebrations include 11 or more family and friends gathering at your home – which means more people using a home’s plumbing system, preparation is the name of the game. If pre-existing build up is clogging drains or pipes, then the extra stress during the holidays will easily cause a plumbing crisis. Plumbing Preparedness for the Holidays: Tips to Keep Drains Clear

If you’re expecting visitors, keep aware of the demands you’re going to be putting on your plumbing system. Ask guests to wait 10-15 minutes between showers to allow time for the drains to clear. Place empty trash bins in each bathroom so visitors have alternatives to flushing things. Garbage Disposal Do’s and Don’ts Even if you have a garbage disposal, don’t put the following items down your sink:

• Bones

• Fats

• Skin from poultry

• Cooking oils

• Potato and onion peels

• Fibrous vegetables like celery and pumpkin

What can you do to prep your plumbing system? Fix slow drains, leaky faucets, and check for improperly installed appliances right away. Locate your home’s main water shut off valve, as well as the hot and cold water supplies to bathroom and kitchen faucets. If you do have a plumbing emergency, shut off the water supply and call Santa Margarita Plumbing, Heating & Air for emergency services. We’re here 24/7.