The holidays can take quite a toll on your plumbing. With all the family and friends visiting, there will undoubtedly be an increased strain on your home’s plumbing system.
This time of year is typically more busy and stressful for most people. Adding a plumbing emergency to the mix is not ideal.
To avoid that hassle, follow these simple practices, and help make your holiday season less stressful.
Avoid Overusing Your Garbage Disposal
A general rule during the holidays is to avoid using the garbage disposal. Avoid any hassles with a clogged kitchen sink by keeping the food scraps out. Toss them in the garbage or a compost bin instead.
No matter how diligent you are, there will still be tiny bits of food that make their way down your kitchen drain. However, in small amounts, your disposal is much more likely to be able to handle it.
If avoiding your garbage disposal is not an option, make sure to cut the larger scraps into smaller pieces before putting them down the disposal. After doing the dishes, consider throwing a few parts of citrus (a lemon, lime, or orange) down the disposal to keep it smelling fresh.
What To Avoid With Your Garbage Disposal
The easiest way to prevent further issues with your disposal system is to take care of what items you allow them to process.
Fibrous foods like celery should never go down your garbage disposal. The long strings associated with these fibrous foods are likely to cause a drain to clog.
Remove and dispose of grease before it reaches your drain. Liquid fats solidify in your drains and can cause nasty clogs.
Eggshells are another item you should remove before they go down your garbage disposal.
How To Deal With An Existing Clog
If you happen to clog a drain, first use a plunger to see if you can dislodge the clog. Sink plungers are smaller than toilet plungers and have slightly different shapes but work on the same principle. Ensure there is water below the plunger to ensure a seal, and then use small rapid thrusts to dislodge the clog.
If you are unable to clear it, give us a call. Be aware, however, that the holiday season creates an influx of plumbing emergencies. Therefore, we will be out to your home as quickly as possible.
Happy Holidays!
From everyone here at Done Plumbing and Heating, we wish you a happy and safe holiday season!
