Thanksgiving is a time for culinary delights, family gatherings, and, for many, unwanted plumbing surprises. The day after this festive holiday, often referred to humorously as “Brown Friday” by plumbing professionals, marks their busiest time of the year. But why does this day lead to a surge in plumbing calls, and how can homeowners prepare to avoid any chaos?
The holiday season brings more than just joy and cheer. With your home buzzing with the presence of family and friends, everything from your kitchen to bathroom gets more traffic than usual. This increased activity puts an unexpected strain on your plumbing system. More people mean more dishwashing, more food waste, and more frequent use of bathrooms. Ultimately, it’s the perfect storm for plumbing issues.
One primary culprit for post-Thanksgiving plumbing woes is the garbage disposal. Undoubtedly, Thanksgiving is synonymous with a feast, and the clean-up process sometimes encourages food waste down the drain. However, items like fats, oils, potato peels, poultry skins, and fibrous vegetables should never be put into garbage disposals, as they can lead to stubborn blockages. Homeowners should be mindful of what goes into the sink to reduce the likelihood of clogs.
Overflowing toilets are the next major concern during this period. With a house full of guests, the bathrooms see significantly more use, often overwhelming outdated or less efficient toilet systems. Remind your visitors of the basics—only flush toilet paper and human waste. Avoid flushing items like wipes, cotton balls, or excessive amounts of toilet paper, even if they claim to be flushable.
Another surprise for homeowners can be the water heater struggling to meet the increased demand. With more people bathing in quick succession, the hot water supply can rapidly deplete. To achieve efficiency, consider turning your water heater to a slightly higher setting during such gatherings, ensuring everyone enjoys a warm shower without hassle.
Preventative maintenance is a homeowner’s best friend during the holiday season. Scheduling a professional inspection a few weeks before Thanksgiving can identify potential issues, allowing you to address them proactively. Simple DIY actions like clearing drain traps, ensuring outdoor faucets aren’t leaking, and checking for slow drains can be invaluable.
If trouble arises, having a reliable plumber on speed dial can be a lifesaver. Research local plumbers in your area and ensure their emergency services are available, just in case you need prompt assistance.
Ultimately, being mindful and taking precautions can save homeowners from the unpleasant experience of Brown Friday. Balancing the jubilance of the holidays with a little forethought can help ensure your celebrations go off without a hitch, and the only thing overflowing is joy and gratitude. Happy Thanksgiving!
