Plumbing is something many of us take for granted—flush the toilet, wash the dishes, and go about our day. However, when something goes wrong, like a toilet backup or a clogged sink, it quickly becomes clear just how vital a well-functioning plumbing system is. Unfortunately, plumbing issues tend to occur at the most inconvenient times, like on Thanksgiving Day, when you’re hosting family and friends. A Littleton plumbing emergency on a holiday is not something anyone wants to deal with, especially with the increased kitchen and bathroom traffic.
Here are some simple yet effective tips to help you avoid a plumbing disaster this Thanksgiving:
1) Don’t Overload Your Garbage Disposal
It might be tempting to throw scraps into the garbage disposal, but overloading it can lead to clogs. Add small amounts at a time and allow the disposal to grind each portion before adding more.
2) Keep Bones Out of the Disposal
Bones can easily damage or jam your garbage disposal, leading to a costly repair. Dispose of bones in the trash or compost, not down the drain.
3) Avoid Pouring Grease Down the Drain
Grease can solidify and block your pipes, causing major issues down the road. After cooking, wipe out pans with paper towels and dispose of the grease in the trash rather than pouring it down the drain.
4) Run Water While Using the Disposal
Always turn on the disposal before adding waste, and run cold water while the disposal is working. This helps the waste flow smoothly and prevents clogging.
5) Manage Bulk Waste Properly
Most of your waste, such as vegetable peels and larger food scraps, should be composted or thrown away rather than sent through the garbage disposal. This helps prevent overloads and blockages.
6) Handle a Clogged Sink Properly
If one side of your sink gets clogged, try plunging it while covering the drain on the other side. This can help build pressure and dislodge the blockage.
Happy Thanksgiving from Our Family to Yours!
We hope you have a safe, happy, and stress-free Thanksgiving. By following these tips, you can help ensure your plumbing stays in top shape throughout the holiday season. If you do find yourself facing a plumbing emergency, don’t hesitate to give us a call.