Get Your Home Plumbing System Ready for Holiday Visitors!

Fix Pesky Plumbing Issues Before Thanksgiving Guests Arrive

The holiday season is nearly here; for many homeowners, that means hosting friends and family for holiday gatherings. And with all of those extra people in the house, it’s a sure bet that the home’s plumbing system will get plenty of use. The bathrooms will, of course, see more use than usual, but the kitchen will also be a busy place with all the food prep and dish cleanup.

So this is the perfect time to fix any issues with the plumbing, be it a finicky toilet, a slow-draining sink, or an outdated showerhead that sprays like a firehose. This article will offer a few pro tips for catching issues early and ideas for simple fixture upgrades that can make the home more pleasant - and efficient - for the holidays!

Is the Toilet Working Properly?

When it comes to finding plumbing problems, there’s no better place to start than the toilets. Fortunately, a broken toilet is relatively easy to spot. For instance, if a clogged toilet is a common occurrence (and homeowners are careful not to flush anything but toilet paper), there may be a blockage in the drainage pipe or air vent pipe, the tank may not be filling completely, or the toilet may simply be too weak (a common problem with older toilets). These issues can also cause the toilet to gurgle or have trouble flushing properly.

Toilet leaks are another common problem to watch out for. If the toilet runs when it’s not in use, or homeowners can hear a trickling sound coming from the toilet, there may be a problem with a valve or the flapper. While the latter is fairly easy to replace, homeowners may need to call a professional to replace a toilet valve. Homeowners will also want to call a pro to fix a leaking toilet if the leak is coming from a crack in the bowl or where the toilet meets the floor, as these will necessitate more intensive toilet repairs - or in some cases, even a toilet replacement.

Kitchen Plumbing Issues to Watch Out For

As important as it is to fix toilet issues before holiday houseguests arrive, it’s equally crucial to make sure the kitchen plumbing is in good shape for all the action it will see. Leaks are a common problem in kitchens, whether they’re coming from the faucet itself or underneath the sink. 

A dripping faucet is easy to spot, but homeowners should also check for evidence of leaking around the base of the faucet and under the sink (mold, warped wood, and musty smells are telltale signs). Of course, leak repair is a notoriously frustrating DIY task, so it’s best to leave this one to a professional.

Kitchen sink clogs are also quite common during the holidays, especially with high volumes of food waste being put down the drain during food prep or cleanup. If the kitchen sink is draining slowly, making gurgling sounds, or has an unpleasant odor, it’s time for a professional drain cleaning to remove any partial blockages and nasty buildup.

Fixture Upgrades That Are Sure to Impress

Another way to prepare the home for holiday visitors is to make small upgrades to the plumbing system. Many plumbing fixtures available today are designed not only to add to a home’s aesthetic but also to maximize efficiency and functionality. For instance, many modern faucets use significantly less water than older faucets, and some come with handy features like motion sensors for touchless operation.

There are plenty of great options in the realm of bathroom fixtures alone. Most newer toilets use relatively little water per flush but are designed to be virtually clog-proof. Homeowners can go a step further and install a smart toilet with a heated seat, integrated night lights, automatic deodorizer, and self-cleaning technology. Or homeowners can keep it simple and replace that old showerhead with a relaxing rainfall showerhead.

Some homeowners may feel like they need to spring for a whole remodel of their bathroom or kitchen, but just replacing one or two faucets and fixtures around the house can make a difference - not just for the holidays but for years to come!

About S and J Plumbing

S and J Plumbing offer personalized solutions for the plumbing issues of Arlington Heights, IL, and the surrounding areas. They provide upfront pricing, options that meet clients’ budgets, and quality workmanship. Call them today for plumbing services in Arlington Heights, IL.

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