The holidays are a time for family, joy, and good food—not for plumbing disasters. At St. George Water Heaters, we know how quickly a clogged drain, a broken water heater, or a backed-up toilet can turn your cheerful holiday plans into a stressful mess. The good news? A little plumbing maintenance for the holidays can help prevent these issues and keep everything running smoothly.
Here’s how to prepare your plumbing system for a stress-free Christmas, along with some winter plumbing tips and a helpful holiday plumbing checklist.
1. Inspect Your Water Heater
Hot water is a must during the winter months, especially when hosting guests. From warm showers to washing dishes after big family meals, your water heater works overtime during the holidays. If your water heater is already struggling to meet your daily needs, now is the time to schedule a tune-up or repair.
Signs you need water heater maintenance include:
- Inconsistent water temperature
- Strange noises coming from the tank
- Reduced hot water supply
To avoid an unexpected cold shower, contact us to inspect or flush your water heater before the holidays hit. Proper maintenance now could save you from needing an emergency repair later. Learn more about our services here.
2. Clear Your Drains and Pipes
Holiday gatherings mean extra cooking and cleaning, which puts a lot of pressure on your drains. The last thing you want is a clogged sink or shower when guests are over. Prevent plumbing issues during Christmas by making sure your drains are clean and clear.
Holiday plumbing checklist for drains:
- Avoid pouring grease or oil down the kitchen sink. Let it cool and dispose of it in the trash.
- Use sink strainers to catch food particles and hair.
- Run cold water when using the garbage disposal to prevent clogs.
If your drains are slow or showing signs of blockage, consider scheduling professional drain cleaning ahead of time. A little maintenance now goes a long way in preventing messy (and smelly) backups during your celebrations.
3. Prepare Your Bathroom for Guests
Extra visitors mean your bathrooms will see a lot more use. This is where simple plumbing maintenance for the holidays can make a huge difference.
Winter plumbing tips for bathrooms:
- Check all toilets for slow flushing or running water. A quick repair can prevent bigger issues.
- Place trash bins in bathrooms to discourage guests from flushing items like wipes or paper towels.
- Stock up on toilet paper and make sure plungers are on hand—just in case!
If you’ve noticed any leaks or slow drains in the bathroom, have them fixed before hosting guests to ensure everything runs smoothly.
4. Insulate Your Pipes
While St. George doesn’t typically see harsh winter weather, it’s still important to protect your pipes. Sudden drops in temperature can cause exposed pipes to freeze, which may lead to bursts and costly water damage.
How to prevent frozen pipes:
- Insulate pipes in garages, basements, or attics.
- Keep cabinets open to allow warm air to circulate around the plumbing.
- Let a small trickle of water run overnight if temperatures dip below freezing.
Taking these precautions now will help protect your home and prevent plumbing headaches during the holidays.
5. Schedule Preventive Plumbing Maintenance
The best way to avoid a plumbing emergency during Christmas is to stay ahead of the game. A professional inspection can identify minor issues before they turn into major problems. From checking your water heater to clearing drains, our team at St. George Water Heaters is here to help you prepare for a stress-free holiday season.
Why choose St. George Water Heaters for your holiday plumbing needs?
- Prompt and reliable service
- Expert water heater maintenance and repairs
- Professional drain cleaning to keep pipes clear
Enjoy a Stress-Free Christmas with St. George Water Heaters
Don’t let plumbing issues derail your holiday celebrations. By following these holiday plumbing checklist tips and scheduling preventive maintenance, you can ensure your home stays warm, comfortable, and free of unexpected breakdowns.
Ready to get your plumbing holiday-ready? Contact us today to schedule your maintenance or repair appointment. Let St. George Water Heaters help you enjoy a stress-free, festive season with your loved ones.