Beat the Holiday Rush: Preparing Your Plumbing Before Guests Arrive

The holiday season turns many homes into busy gathering spots filled with food, family, and good memories. But while you’re preparing your home for guests, one thing that often gets overlooked is your plumbing system.
 
Extra cooking, showers, laundry, and dishwashing can push your pipes and fixtures well beyond their normal use. Waiting until the last minute to fix small plumbing problems can lead to major headaches right when your house is full of people.
 
At Escobar Plumbing LLC, we’ve seen it all — and we know how to help you avoid those stressful holiday plumbing emergencies.
 
 

1. Check for Leaks Early

 
Before the season kicks off, take a few minutes to inspect around your sinks, toilets, and water heater for signs of leaks or moisture. Even a small drip can worsen fast when plumbing demand increases.
 
If you notice any damp areas, rust stains, or a musty smell, get them repaired before guests arrive. A quick fix now can prevent costly water damage later.
 

 2. Service Your Water Heater

 
Your water heater will be working overtime with all the extra showers and dishwashing during the holidays. Sediment buildup or a weak heating element can leave your guests with cold water.
 
Schedule a quick inspection and flush to remove buildup. Also, make sure your water heater temperature is set around 120°F — hot enough for comfort, but safe for everyone.
 

3. Clear and Clean Your Drains

 
Don’t wait for a clogged sink or shower drain to ruin your weekend. Use an eco-friendly drain cleaner or have your drains professionally cleared ahead of time.
 
If you’ve noticed slow drainage or gurgling noises, that’s a warning sign there’s buildup in the line. Clearing it before guests arrive ensures everything flows smoothly when your plumbing is under pressure.
 

 4. Take Care of the Garbage Disposal

 
The kitchen sees the most action during the holidays — and so does your garbage disposal. Avoid feeding it foods that cause clogs or jams, like:
•Grease, oils, or fats
•Pasta, rice, or potato peels
•Coffee grounds or eggshells
•Bones, pits, or shells
 
Run cold water while using your disposal, and feed scraps slowly. A quick cleaning with baking soda, vinegar, and ice cubes helps remove odors and buildup.
 

5. Test Toilets and Faucets

 
A running toilet or slow-draining sink may seem minor, but they can quickly turn into an emergency when everyone’s home. Check that toilets flush properly and don’t leak at the base.
 
If any faucets are dripping or making noise, replace worn washers or cartridges early. A little preventive maintenance now will save you a big mess later.
 

 6. Know Your Main Shut-Off Valve

 
In case of an emergency, make sure you know where your main water shut-off is located. If you or your guests accidentally cause a leak, shutting off the water quickly can prevent serious damage.
 
 
Final Tip: Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute
 
Plumbing companies get busier as the holidays approach. Scheduling a pre-holiday plumbing check now ensures you’ll have peace of mind — and plenty of hot water — when family and friends arrive.
 
At Escobar Plumbing LLC, our licensed team is ready to help homes across Georgia prepare for the holiday season. Whether it’s a quick drain cleaning, a water heater service, or a full inspection, we’ll make sure your plumbing is ready for anything.
 
📞 Call or text 770-530-5263 today to schedule your pre-holiday plumbing service and enjoy a worry-free Thanksgiving and Christmas!
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