Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, family, and of course, a fantastic feast. Here in Sacramento, as we gather with loved ones from Elk Grove to Folsom and Roseville to Citrus Heights, our homes become the heart of the celebration.
But for your plumbing system, it can be the busiest—and most stressful—day of the year. A sudden clog or a malfunctioning garbage disposal can quickly turn a joyful gathering into a chaotic mess.
As your local, family-owned plumbing company, Early Bird Plumbing is here to help. Follow these simple tips to ensure your Thanksgiving is memorable for all the right reasons.
1. Be Kind to Your Kitchen Sink & Garbage Disposal
The kitchen is the command center on Thanksgiving, and your sink and disposal bear the brunt of the work.
- Never Pour Fats, Oils, or Grease (FOG) Down the Drain. This is the #1 rule! Even if it's liquid when hot, bacon grease, turkey drippings, and cooking oils solidify as they cool, creating stubborn blockages in your pipes. Instead, pour cooled grease into a sealed container (like an old coffee can) and throw it in the trash.
- Use a Sink Strainer. A simple mesh strainer can catch food scraps, potato peels, and other solids, preventing them from going down the drain in the first place.
- Feed Your Disposal Wisely. Avoid putting stringy, fibrous, or starchy foods like celery, onion skins, potato peels, and coffee grounds down the disposal. They can tangle the blades and clog the mechanism.
- Run Cold Water. Always run a steady stream of cold water before, during, and for at least 15-20 seconds after using the disposal. This helps solidify any grease, allowing the disposal to chop it up and flush it away.
2. Give Your Guest Bathroom a Pre-Holiday Check-Up
With extra guests using your bathrooms, small issues can become big problems.
- Check for Slow Drains. Does the shower or sink drain slower than usual? Address this before the holiday. A slow drain is often a warning sign of a developing clog.
- Ensure Your Toilet is Functioning Properly. Check for any signs of running water or a weak flush. Remind guests (especially children) politely that your toilet is not a trash can. Only human waste and toilet paper should be flushed.
3. Prep Your Guests for a Smooth Celebration
A little communication goes a long way in protecting your plumbing.
- Provide a Trash Can. Make sure there's a clearly visible and easily accessible trash can in every bathroom to discourage flushing wipes, cotton balls, or other products.
- Stagger Dishwashing. If possible, avoid running the dishwasher at the same time as using the garbage disposal or taking a shower. This can overwhelm your home’s drainage system, especially in older Sacramento homes.
What to Do If a Plumbing Disaster Strikes
Even with the best preparation, accidents happen. If you find yourself facing a clogged toilet, a backed-up sink, or a complete drain stoppage, don't panic!
- Turn It Off: Stop using the affected fixture and any water source connected to it.
- Avoid Chemical Drain Cleaners: These corrosive liquids often do more harm than good, damaging your pipes and making a professional fix more difficult.
- Call the Pros: This is where we come in.
Your Sacramento Plumbing Heroes Are Here to Help
At Early Bird Plumbing, we know that a plumbing emergency on a holiday is the last thing you need. As a locally owned and operated company, we're your neighbors, and we're committed to keeping your Thanksgiving celebrations on track.
We offer prompt, reliable, and professional plumbing services throughout Sacramento and the surrounding areas. Whether you need emergency drain cleaning, garbage disposal repair, or toilet service, our licensed technicians are ready to help.
Don't let a plumbing problem spoil your holiday feast. Book a pre-holiday inspection today or save our number for emergencies!
From our family at Early Bird Plumbing to yours, we wish you a safe, joyful, and clog-free Thanksgiving!