With so much food being prepared around the holidays and so many people, it's easy for kitchen and bathroom fixtures to get damaged. However, if you're aware of what usually happens, you may be able to minimize any damage or avoid it altogether. To prevent needed plumbing repairs this upcoming holiday season, be mindful of the following issues.

Typical Plumbing Problems That Happen During the Holidays

1. Clogged Drain

Whether it's a sink, tub, or toilet, clogged drains are a common plumbing repair during this time of the year. It's usually attributed to heavy usage or inappropriate object being dropped or flushed down. For the sinks and tubs, an inexpensive drain strainer will reduce what's going down in the first place. Otherwise, use a plunger once you start to notice the system slowing down. 

2. Malfunctioning Garbage Disposal

Many people assume the garbage disposal can handle practically any type of food, but unfortunately, that's untrue. If you or your guests are putting bones, meat, eggshells, coffee grounds, fat, grease, vegetable, fruit peels, or starchy foods into it, it's going to get clogged or worse, damaged. Use the drain strainer mentioned above and leave only the smallest bits of food for the disposal.

3. No Hot Water

When too many people are using the hot water all at once, it's difficult for your water heater to keep up and maintain the temperature. The easiest way to avoid this is to space out the hot water usage; try not to have people taking showers at the same time or immediately back to back. Another option is to raise the temperature setting to a higher limit, but be mindful if your guests include children or the elderly. In this instance, don't go over 120 °F; otherwise, they could be burned. 

If you've already noticed some of these problems, turn to Do It Right Plumbing Sewer & Drain Services, located in Minneapolis, MN. This locally-owned company is trusted by both residents and businesses alike in the Twin Cities area for all types of plumbing repair needs. To learn more about their services, visit their website, or call them at (612) 388-8524.