As Thanksgiving approaches, you’ve probably been busy getting your home ready for guests. But before you sit down to enjoy that turkey feast, don’t forget about one crucial area: your plumbing! At Vegas Valley Plumbing, we know how important it is to keep your plumbing running smoothly, especially during the holidays. Follow these seven essential plumbing tips to prevent a plumbing disaster on Thanksgiving Day.

1. Don’t Toss Leftovers Down the Drain

Cleaning up after a big meal might tempt you to throw leftovers down the drain, but resist the urge! Putting large amounts of food waste in the drain can lead to serious clogs in your kitchen plumbing. Instead, scrape leftover food into the trash or compost bin. Items like potato peels, fruit pits, and turkey bones should never go into the garbage disposal, as they can easily damage your plumbing.

2. Properly Dispose of Cooking Grease

Greasy foods like turkey, gravy, and bacon can leave your pans covered in fat, but never pour grease down the drain! Grease will harden in your pipes and lead to blockages. Instead, wipe the grease from your cookware with a paper towel and throw it away, or pour the cooled oil into a metal can and discard it once it’s full.

3. Run the Garbage Disposal Regularly

When cleaning up, be smart about how you use your garbage disposal. Running it only after it’s packed with food can increase the chance of clogs. Turn the disposal on before adding food scraps, and keep the water running while you use it. Afterward, run the water for a few extra seconds to help keep the drain clear.

4. Don’t Run the Dishwasher and Garbage Disposal Together

Your dishwasher and garbage disposal often share a drain. Running both at the same time can overload the system and cause food waste to back up into your dishwasher. To avoid any issues, make sure you’re done using the garbage disposal before you start a load in the dishwasher.

5. Space Out Showers

If you’re hosting overnight guests, your plumbing system may be working overtime. Ask your guests to wait at least 10 minutes between showers to give the drains time to clear. This simple tip helps prevent clogs caused by hair and soap buildup. You can also use drain strainers to catch hair and keep your pipes running smoothly.

6. Only Flush Toilet Paper

With more people in the house, your bathrooms will be busier than usual. To avoid toilet clogs, remind guests to flush only toilet paper—no wet wipes, tissues, cotton swabs, or feminine products. Place a waste bin next to the toilet to give guests a proper place to dispose of these items.

7. Fix Plumbing Issues Before Thanksgiving

Don’t wait until your guests arrive to fix any plumbing problems. If you’ve noticed slow drains, leaky faucets, or any other issues, it’s best to call Vegas Valley Plumbing before Thanksgiving. Our professional team can inspect your system, address any issues, and make sure your plumbing is ready to handle the holiday rush.

Avoid a Thanksgiving plumbing emergency by following these simple tips. If you need help with a plumbing issue, contact Vegas Valley Plumbing at (702) 886-2485 for fast, reliable service. We’re here to ensure your holiday stays stress-free!

Also read: 4 Essential Water Heater Services from Vegas Valley Plumbing