The last thing you want to worry about during the holiday season is a plumbing issue interrupting the festivities. Before guests arrive, take a little time to prepare your home with this simple plumbing checklist, so you can host with peace of mind this season.
1. Unclog Drains
Slow or clogged drains are easy to overlook, but with extra guests and increased kitchen and bathroom use, they can quickly turn into a bigger problem. Everyday buildup from soap residue, grease, food scraps, and hair can restrict water flow and lead to unexpected clogs at the worst time. To keep things running smoothly, throw food scraps in the trash before they reach the garbage disposal, use a safe, enzyme-based drain cleaner to break down buildup, and schedule a professional drain cleaning with Action to clear out hidden clogs before they cause trouble.
2. Test Your Bathroom Plumbing Fixtures
With more guests using your bathrooms, it’s important to make sure everything is working properly before the festivities begin. Take a few minutes to check water pressure at sinks and showers, and ensure toilets flush smoothly and refill correctly. Catching small issues early can help prevent inconvenient surprises during holiday gatherings.
3. Schedule a Water Heater Check-Up
Your water heater works harder than ever during the winter months, keeping up with extra showers, increased dishwashing, and colder incoming water, so a quick check can go a long way toward preventing cold-water surprises. Draining a small amount of water from the tank helps remove sediment buildup that can reduce efficiency, and checking the age of your water heater can reveal whether it may be nearing the end of its lifespan. If you’re unsure about your system’s condition, the Action team is here to help assess it and keep your hot water flowing all season long.
4. Set Clear Guidelines for Garbage Disposal Use
Holiday meals mean more kitchen traffic and more chances for garbage disposal problems, so it’s a good idea to remind guests to toss food scraps in the trash instead of down the disposal. For items that are safe to go down, be sure cold water is running before, during, and after use to help flush debris through and prevent clogs.
5. Inspect for Hidden Leaks
Small, unnoticed leaks can quickly turn into major plumbing problems if they’re left unchecked, especially during colder weather when pipes are under extra stress. Take a few minutes to inspect under sinks, around toilets, and near appliances, keeping an eye out for moisture, water stains, or dripping. Catching and addressing leaks early can save you from costly repairs and unexpected damage later on.
We’re Here When You Need Us
Even with the best preparation, plumbing emergencies can still happen. That’s why Action offers 24/7 Emergency Service all season long, so you’re never left without support when it matters most.