With the holiday season nearing full swing, we often expect to spend time entertaining and cooking. What many people fail to consider is that they may also be overworking their plumbing system. Though visits from friends and family are welcome during the season, an unexpected plumbing repair is not. Prepare your plumbing to meet the demands of the holidays by implementing these useful tips.
Clean Fixtures
To maximize water flow and prevent backup, clean plumbing fixtures with vinegar to remove sediment and build up. Concentrate on areas that will receive more use during the holiday season, such as kitchen sinks, bathroom sinks, and showers. After cleaning each fixture, run water to inspect the flow. Periodically removing build up from faucets will help prevent future blockages.
Adjust and Clean Water Heater
Though it’s not recommended to exceed 125 degrees, increasing the heat output of your water heater will guarantee your guests have access to hot water. Between hand washing, cooking, and cleaning, access to hot water is a necessity when planning to entertain company. Additionally, consider draining your water heater in preparation for company, as this will remove sediment.
Unclog Drains
Well before guests are scheduled to arrive, monitor water drainage in each sink and bathtub. From hair and organic materials to soap residue and cleaning products, drains are likely to become clogged without regular maintenance. If you discover water not draining properly, try using a plunger to dislodge the clog. Should this method not be successful, contact a plumber for professional drain cleaning services.
Check Your Toilets
When you have guests over for the holidays, bathrooms receive the highest amount of traffic. Needless to say, properly functioning toilets are a necessity. Prior to welcoming guests, flush each toilet while monitoring the water pressure to ensure water does not back up. Additionally, check the flappers and valves to guarantee they’re working properly. Listen closely to the toilet after flushing and note whether there are strange sounds; sometimes, this indicates a problem with the flapper sealing correctly. You can trust Eco Plumbers with all of your toilet repair, replacement and toilet installation needs.
Provide More Disposal Options
More guests results in more garbage needing disposal. Ensure every bathroom has adequate waste baskets to prevent guests from flushing items that may clog the toilet. If having multiple get-togethers, don’t forget to monitor waste baskets and change the bags when needed. This simple step may save you a hefty repair bill.
Treat Your Garbage Disposal with Care
Hosting a holiday feast is a fun way to connect with friends and family, but excessive cooking and organic waste can lead to garbage disposal malfunctions. During the holiday season, treat your garbage disposal with care. First, never put items in the garbage disposal without also running water into it. This step helps flush food waste and minimize debris, which can lead to a clog. Also, be mindful of what is thrown into the garbage disposal. Grease, large vegetable chunks or peels, and meat should be disposed of in the trash. Contact The Eco Plumbers today for special deals on garbage disposal repair and garbage disposal installation.
Prevent Freezing Pipes
Chilly winters threaten to freeze pipes if preventative measures aren’t taken. Because the last thing you want with guests arriving is a frozen plumbing system, spend time insulating your pipes well before entertaining. Increase access to cold pipes by opening cabinet doors, allowing warm indoor air to reach them.
Do you need a reliable, eco-friendly plumbing service in Columbus, Ohio? Contact the professionals at The Eco Plumbers today!
