As we move into the holiday season and gather with loved ones to reflect on what we’re thankful for, it’s a good time to remember all the comforts our homes provide—especially the plumbing that keeps everything running smoothly! Here in Chicago’s South and Southwest suburbs, the colder months bring unique challenges that can strain plumbing systems. But with a little preparation, you can avoid potential headaches and ensure your plumbing is ready for winter. DRC Plumbing and Sewer is here with helpful tips to keep your home’s plumbing problem-free, allowing you to focus on the essential things this Thanksgiving.
Be Thankful for Clear Drains
Kitchen sinks get extra use during holiday meal prep, and if you’re hosting, your bathroom drains might also see more traffic than usual. Grease, food scraps, and even soaps can build up in your kitchen drain, leading to slow drainage or full blockages. In the bathroom, hair and soap residue often clog drains, especially in showers and tubs. To keep your drains clear, avoid disposing of fats or oils down the drain, and use strainers to catch food particles or hair. Give your drains a monthly flush by pouring hot water down them to prevent buildup, and keep any potential holiday plumbing disasters at bay.
Safeguard Your Garbage Disposal
Holiday cooking can put a lot of strain on your garbage disposal. Before you load it up, remember that it’s designed for smaller food waste and not for bones, eggshells, or fibrous vegetables like celery. These items can jam or damage the blades, resulting in costly repairs. Instead, consider starting a compost bin for food scraps and remind guests and family to dispose of any solid waste properly.
Check Your Water Heater
Thanksgiving gatherings often mean more dishes to wash, longer showers, and increased demand on your water heater. Since water heaters work harder during the colder months, it’s crucial to check that yours is in good working order. Look for signs like fluctuating water temperature or unusual noises that might indicate it’s time for a flush or even a replacement. Regular water heater maintenance, such as draining the tank to remove sediment, can improve efficiency and extend its lifespan. At DRC Plumbing and Sewer, we offer water heater inspections to help ensure you have enough hot water to meet your needs.
Prevent Frozen Plumbing
Freezing pipes are a major concern as winter approaches. If left unchecked, pipes in colder areas of the home—like basements or exterior walls—can freeze and burst, leading to extensive water damage. Before the first hard freeze, turn off any outdoor faucets and drain hoses. You may also want to insulate exposed pipes in areas prone to temperature fluctuations, like your garage or crawl spaces. For peace of mind, schedule a professional inspection with DRC Plumbing and Sewer to ensure your home is prepared for the cold.
Give Thanks for Your Sump Pump
For those in areas susceptible to heavy rain and groundwater, the sump pump is a critical component. It helps prevent basement flooding by diverting excess water away from your home’s foundation. To keep it functioning optimally, make sure the sump pump’s pit is clear of debris, test the pump’s function by pouring water into the pit, and check the discharge line to ensure it isn’t clogged or frozen. A proactive check now will help you avoid unexpected basement flooding during a holiday weekend.
Maintain a Reliable Dishwasher
Your dishwasher does a lot of heavy lifting after holiday meals. Keep it running smoothly by scraping food scraps off plates before loading, ensuring proper loading to allow water circulation, and regularly cleaning the filter. Once a month, run an empty cycle with vinegar or a dishwasher cleaner to remove grease and food residue. A little care goes a long way in avoiding breakdowns just when you need it most.
Call DRC Plumbing and Sewer for Help
This November, we’re grateful to serve our neighbors in Chicago’s South and Southwest suburbs. Whether you need assistance winterizing your pipes, clearing drains, or inspecting your water heater, DRC Plumbing and Sewer is here to help. With a few preventative steps and a little gratitude, you can avoid common plumbing issues and keep your home running smoothly throughout the holiday season.
We have some special offers to save you money for the holiday season: https://www.drcplumbingandsewer.com/specials/
From our family to yours, we wish you a happy, healthy, and plumbing-problem-free Thanksgiving!