When it comes to get-togethers and parties, most of us are so focused on decorating, cooking, and getting together with friends that it’s easy to let little things fall through the cracks. Plumbing is one of those little things that can lead to bigger issues if not addressed early.
House guests are just one of the factors that put extra pressure on plumbing. Don’t get stuck with a clogged sink just as your event begins. Try these tips to prep your home’s plumbing for a party.
Have a Pre-Party Plumbing Inspection
If you plan on hosting parties and having overnight guests, it’s a good idea to make sure everything is in good working order before the festivities begin. Hire a plumber to inspect your pipes, drains, and fixtures and make sure there are no major issues. If there are any red flags, it’s better to find and fix them in advance.
Don’t Toss Trash in the Sink
As tempting as it is to scrape your plate into the sink, it’s a nasty habit that wreaks havoc with sewer lines and damages garbage disposals. Pasta and rice swell inside the lines, while potato peels and pumpkin guts turn to glue. Along with eggshells, meats, and vegetables, they clog the drain. In addition, bones, peels, and rinds often damage garbage disposal blades. To prevent unwanted items in the sink, put a trash can in the kitchen so it’s easy for people to access.
It’s also a good idea to avoid dumping cooking grease down the drain. Fats and oils congeal over time, leading to stubborn clogs. Instead of pouring them into the sink, leave them in a dish to solidify and then scrape them into the trash.
Test Your Water Heater
Since no one wants to take a cold shower, have a technician check that your water heater is in top shape and holds enough hot water for your family and any guests staying with you. Routine maintenance, such as removing rust deposits, helps increase the lifespan of your heater and ensures you always have hot water on tap. Another option is to install a tankless water heater that heats water much faster than a traditional heater.
Prevent Bathroom Clogs
With house guests coming for a visit, toilets get more traffic and clogs are quite common. Most happen when people flush items that belong in the garbage instead of down the drain. To help prevent an emergency call to the plumber, put a friendly note over the toilet reminding guests not to flush items such as paper towels, cotton balls, and feminine-hygiene products. Place a wastebasket next to the toilet and have a plunger on hand in case a clog still happens.
Few things spoil a celebration like plumbing problems. No one wants to deal with a broken garbage disposal or clogged drain while hosting house guests. Avoid the need to bring in a plumber during your event by prepping your home’s plumbing before hosting a get-together.
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