Dealing with a major plumbing emergency during the holidays can quickly turn a joyful season into a stressful situation. Plumbing systems often see heavier use during the holidays due to increased cooking, cleaning, and hosting guests. That extra demand can put added strain on pipes, drains, and appliances. By following this plumbing checklist, you can help ensure your system is prepared and reduce the risk of unexpected problems.

Make Sure Indoor and Outdoor Plumbing Is Properly Winterized

Winterizing your plumbing helps protect pipes from freezing and bursting during cold weather. For outdoor plumbing, disconnect hoses and irrigation equipment, then shut off the water supply to outdoor fixtures from inside the home. Open those fixtures to allow any remaining water to drain.

Indoors, inspect exposed pipes in unheated areas such as basements, crawl spaces, garages, and attics. Make sure these pipes are properly insulated to help prevent freezing during cold snaps.

Inspect for Plumbing and Drain Leaks

Leaks in water lines or drainpipes are fairly common, especially in older homes with aging plumbing systems. Even small leaks can cause significant damage over time. Hidden leaks may also contribute to moisture buildup that can lead to mold growth inside walls, ceilings, or floors, which may impact indoor air quality.

Walk through your home and look for signs of leaks. One common indicator is hearing running water when no fixtures are in use. Other warning signs include:

  • Standing water or unexplained damp areas
  • Water stains on ceilings or walls
  • Yellow or brown discoloration on drywall
  • Musty or earthy odors
  • Bubbling paint or peeling wallpaper
  • Sudden changes in water pressure

While inspecting, make sure no faucets are dripping and no toilets continue running after being flushed. These issues waste water and can increase your utility bill. Some minor repairs are simple, but a licensed plumber can safely handle any issues you are unsure about.

Check That Drains and Toilets Work Properly

Clogs and sewer backups are among the most disruptive plumbing issues, especially during holiday gatherings. Slow-draining sinks, gurgling sounds, or toilets that flush poorly can indicate partial blockages.

If these problems occur throughout the home, it may signal an issue with the main sewer line. Scheduling professional drain or sewer cleaning before the holidays can help prevent messy and costly emergencies.

Fill P-Traps in Guest Bathrooms

If guest bathrooms are rarely used, run water in the sinks, tubs, and showers before visitors arrive. This ensures the P-traps are full of water. The water in a P-trap blocks sewer gases from entering the home. When fixtures sit unused for long periods, the water can evaporate and allow odors to escape.

Clean and Test the Garbage Disposal

Garbage disposals are especially useful during holiday cooking. When functioning properly, they help reduce food buildup in kitchen drains.

Before the holidays, test your disposal by running a small amount of soft food waste through it while using plenty of cold water. The disposal should grind efficiently without excessive noise. Loud grinding or rattling may indicate wear or internal issues.

To clean a disposal, pour a mixture of white vinegar and baking soda into the drain and let it sit for about 15 minutes. Flush with hot water, then run ice cubes through the disposal to help remove residue. Citrus peels can be used briefly to help reduce odors.

Flush Your Water Heater

Tank-style water heaters accumulate sediment over time. Flushing the tank helps maintain efficiency, preserves available hot water capacity, and can extend the life of the unit. Many manufacturers recommend annual flushing, while homes with hard water may benefit from more frequent service.

Although flushing can be done by homeowners, it is often best handled by a professional. The process involves shutting off the heater, allowing the water to cool, connecting a hose to the drain valve, and flushing the tank until the water runs clear.

Schedule a Professional Inspection and Maintenance Service

One of the best ways to prepare your plumbing system for the holidays is to schedule a professional inspection. A licensed plumber can identify leaks, clean drains and sewer lines, check water pressure, and evaluate your water heater before problems arise.

The team at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing® in Ocean County, NJ, offers comprehensive plumbing services to help keep your system in top condition. From drain cleaning to water heater maintenance, we are here to help. Call Benjamin Franklin Plumbing® in Ocean County or schedule an appointment online to get your home holiday-ready.