At Albuquerque Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, we cherish the spirit of Thanksgiving—a time for warmth, gratitude, and shared moments with family and friends. But as homeowners gear up for this festive occasion, it’s crucial to be mindful of potential plumbing issues. Our experts understand the importance of a smoothly running plumbing system during the holidays. Ensure your plumbing stays stress-free with these professional plumbing tips:

1. Schedule Preventative Maintenance

Thanksgiving morning should be filled with the aroma of a delectable feast, not the stress of a plumbing emergency. Take proactive steps by scheduling a preventive maintenance service well before the holiday rush. Our professionals can address any lingering issues with your plumbing appliances, including sinks, toilets, showers, and water heaters. Preparing your home’s plumbing system gives you the peace of mind to enjoy the festivities.

2. Minimize Kitchen Chaos

As the heart of Thanksgiving celebrations, the kitchen is prone to plumbing challenges. Encourage guests to gather in other areas, reducing traffic and minimizing the risk of foreign objects falling into drains. By designating a space for socializing, you decrease the likelihood of accidents that could lead to plumbing mishaps.

3. Safely Dispose of Grease

A Thanksgiving feast often means an abundance of cooking oils and grease. While it might be tempting to pour them down the drain, this can lead to long-term issues. We recommend safely disposing of grease by pouring it into a separate container, such as a mason jar or plastic bag, before discarding it in the trash. This simple step can prevent grease from solidifying in your pipes and causing stubborn blockages.

4. Garbage Disposal Dos and Don’ts

Your garbage disposal is a valuable ally in the kitchen, but it has its limits. Avoid plumbing headaches by keeping certain items away from the disposal, including:

Fibrous vegetables
Potato peels
Fruit pits
Eggshells
Bones
Pasta and noodles
Coffee grounds

Treat your garbage disposal carefully to ensure it operates smoothly throughout the holiday season.

5. Coordinate Dishwasher Use

The garbage disposal and dishwasher utilize the same drain, making coordination crucial. Running both simultaneously can lead to food waste entering your dishwasher, potentially causing flooding. If you encounter a garbage disposal issue, refrain from running your dishwasher until the problem is resolved. This approach helps maintain the efficiency of your kitchen appliances.

6. Proper Toilet Usage

In the bathroom, proper flushing habits are key to preventing plumbing troubles. If you provide wet wipes for guests, emphasize that they should be discarded in the trash, not flushed. Unlike toilet paper designed to dissolve in water, items like the following can lead to clogs if flushed:

Cotton balls
Q-tips
Napkins
Paper towels
Feminine hygiene products
Facial cleansing/makeup remover wipes

7. Manage Shower Time

When hosting guests over the Thanksgiving weekend, thoughtful shower timing is crucial. Be mindful of simultaneous showers, as multiple water-dependent tasks can strain water pressure and lead to hot water shortages. Planning shower times ensures everyone enjoys the comfort of a warm shower without overstressing the plumbing system.

8. Insulate Pipes in Cold Weather

As Thanksgiving often marks the onset of colder temperatures, it’s time to protect your plumbing against potential freeze-ups. Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas, like the basement or crawl spaces. Frozen pipes can lead to costly damages and disruptions during the holiday season. We recommend using pipe insulation sleeves to provide extra protection against the winter chill.

9. Check Water Heater Efficiency

Before your home is filled with guests, take a moment to ensure your water heater is functioning efficiently. The increased demand for hot water can strain your appliance. Consider flushing the tank to remove sediment buildup and adjusting the temperature to a comfortable yet energy-efficient level. If you aren’t comfortable performing these maintenance tasks, contact our professionals for assistance.

10. Landscaping Around Outdoor Pipes

While we focus on the hustle and bustle inside our homes during Thanksgiving, it’s equally important to consider the outdoor plumbing. Inspect the area around outdoor pipes for any overgrown vegetation or debris. These obstacles get in the way of proper drainage. Trim back plants and clear away leaves to maintain optimal water flow, preventing outdoor plumbing issues.

Contact Albuquerque Plumbing, Heating & Cooling Today

Incorporate these tips into your Thanksgiving preparations to avoid holiday plumbing issues. At Albuquerque Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, we want to help you enjoy reliable plumbing along with your holiday celebrations. If you have plumbing problems to resolve before Thanksgiving, don’t hesitate to call us to schedule an appointment. Our team will ensure your plumbing system runs smoothly. We wish you a happy Thanksgiving and trouble-free plumbing!

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