The holiday season is all about family, friends, fun, food — and a little bit of festive chaos. But with extra guests, endless dishwashing, and constant showers, your home’s plumbing can come under serious pressure. A little preparation now can save you from a Christmas crisis later. Here are a few essential checks to make sure your plumbing system can handle the holiday rush.
1. Inspect Taps
Even a slow drip can turn into a steady stream once your home gets busier. Check for leaks early and get them fixed — it’ll help prevent water damage and keep your water bill from spiking during the holidays.
2. Test Toilets Before Guests Arrive
A blocked toilet is the last thing you want on Christmas day. Make sure all toilets are flushing properly and consider having a plunger handy (just in case). A quick pre-check can save everyone from an awkward moment.
3. Clear Kitchen Drains
Between cooking big meals and cleaning up after them, kitchen sinks take a beating in December. We dream of Christmas ham all year round, but it’s important to avoid pouring grease or fat down the drain, as this hardens and will no doubt lead to a blockage. Use a sink strainer to catch food scraps, and if you have a garbage disposal, give it a quick check to make sure it’s running smoothly.
TIP: Buying a drain cleaning chemical and testing prior to festive feasts is a sure way to keep everything working smoothly and avoid stinky sinks!
TIP: Running your dishwasher empty with vinegar – a cheap, simple way to remove build up before use.
4. Check Your Hot Water System
With guests showering, dishes piling up, and festive cleanups happening daily, your hot water system will be working overtime. Check that it’s heating efficiently and book a professional service if it hasn’t been maintained in a while (nothing kills the Christmas spirit faster than a cold shower).
Gift yourself a stress-free holiday this silly season! Schedule a pre-holiday plumbing check to fix up any lingering challenges, to ensure everything’s in top shape before guests arrive. That way, you can focus on what really matters — great food, good company, and a home that’s ready for the holidays.
