Avoiding common plumbing emergencies during the holidays can help to ensure you have a smooth and joyous holiday season with your loved ones.
The holiday season is a time for celebration, joy, and spending quality moments with loved ones. However, amidst the festivities, there’s one thing you wouldn’t want to invite to your holiday gathering – plumbing emergencies. Picture this: a burst pipe, a clogged toilet, or a malfunctioning water heater disrupting your holiday cheer. To ensure your celebrations go off without a hitch, let’s explore some common plumbing emergencies during the holiday season and how you can avoid them.
Burst Pipes
Picture the scenario: you’re hosting a holiday party, and suddenly, there’s water pouring from your ceiling. Burst pipes are a nightmare and often occur due to freezing temperatures. To prevent this, insulate your pipes before the winter chill sets in. Additionally, keep your home heated to a consistent temperature, especially if you’re planning to be away. This simple step can save you from the hassle of dealing with a burst pipe when you should be sipping eggnog and enjoying the company of friends and family.
Clogged Drains
With holiday feasts come a lot of cooking and cleaning. The aftermath of preparing large meals can result in clogged drains. To avoid this, be mindful of what goes down your kitchen sink. Avoid pouring fats, oils, and greases down the drain, as they can solidify and create blockages. Use a drain strainer to catch food particles and dispose of them properly. If you find your drain running slow, don’t ignore it. Address the issue promptly to avoid a full-blown clog.
Overworked Garbage Disposal
Holiday cooking often puts a strain on your garbage disposal. Avoid throwing large quantities of food scraps down the disposal at once. Instead, feed it gradually and ensure you run cold water while using it. Also, be cautious about what you put in the disposal – fibrous or starchy foods can lead to clogs and malfunctions. If your disposal does get stuck, refrain from using harsh chemicals and call a professional plumber to assess and fix the issue.
Malfunctioning Water Heater
Imagine the disappointment of a cold shower on a chilly holiday morning. Ensure your water heater is up to the task by scheduling a maintenance check before the festive season. Sediment buildup can affect its efficiency, so flushing the tank is a good practice. If your water heater is aging, it might be worth considering a replacement to avoid unexpected breakdowns during the holidays.
Running Toilet
A continuously running toilet not only wastes water but can also be a source of annoyance during your holiday gatherings. Often, a running toilet is caused by a faulty flapper or fill valve. Regularly inspect and replace these components as needed. If you’re not comfortable with the task, consider hiring a professional plumber to ensure your toilet is in good working order.
Call Mahon Plumbing Today
If you still have more questions regarding your plumbing, we here at Mahon Plumbing are here to help. We have been serving the wider Baltimore area since 1994, so we have 25 years of experience to back up our fantastic service! Call us at our Baltimore location at 410-766-8566 or our Pasadena location at 410-636-7944. Be sure to keep up with us on social media by following us on Facebook or Twitter.