Common Holiday Plumbing Problems and How to Fix Them

Plumbing problems can be a massive inconvenience, but they’re especially troublesome during the holidays when you’re preparing for large family gatherings and entertaining guests. Fortunately, all is not lost. If you encounter one of these pesky holiday plumbing problems, we’ve got the solutions to get you back up and running. So, here are some common holiday plumbing problems and how you can fix them quickly and easily.

1. Clogged Kitchen Sink

When you’re in the middle of food prep, and your kitchen sink suddenly starts backing up, it can be quite alarming—especially when you’re hosting a big holiday dinner party. The cause is generally grease and food residue accumulated over time and finally reached the point where they’ve clogged the drain.

To remedy this problem, try using a plunger to dislodge the blockage. If that doesn’t work, you may need to enlist the help of a plumber and have them use their professional-grade drain cleaner to get your sink running again.

2. Dishwasher Draining Issues

If your dishwasher isn’t draining correctly, it could be something as simple as a clogged connection or pipe. To fix this problem, check the drain hose and ensure it’s securely connected and not bent or kinked anywhere. If the hose looks okay, you may need to remove the food residue buildup within the filter.

If these solutions don’t work, you may need to call a plumber. They can use their specialized tools and techniques to locate and unclog the source of the problem quickly and efficiently.

3. Non-functional Garbage Disposal

Here’s another common holiday plumbing problem that couldn’t come at a worse time. But don’t worry; it’s probably something you can fix.

If your garbage disposal isn’t working correctly, you must check the reset button on its side. Push it and make sure you hear a clicking sound—if not, it could mean an electrical issue. So you’ll likely have to call in a professional plumber for assistance.

If the reset button is functional, try pouring some hot water down the disposal and see if that helps. You can also use an all-natural cleaner such as lemon juice or vinegar to clear any clogs or residue buildup.

4. Clogged Toilet

You need your toilet to stay operational when you have a house full of friends and family. If it suddenly stops flushing, there’s a good chance that something has gotten stuck in the pipes or bowl and is causing a blockage.

To fix this problem, try using a plunger to loosen the clog and get things moving again. You can also use an auger or snake to reach further into the pipes and dislodge the blockage. If all else fails, it’s best to call a professional plumber to clear the clog and get your toilet back up and running.

Call Stephens to Help With Your Holiday Plumbing Problems

Stephens is here to help you get through your holiday plumbing woes. Be sure to contact us if you encounter any of these common holiday plumbing problems, and we can send a qualified plumber to diagnose and fix the issue as quickly as possible.