The holidays are a time for celebration and fun, but they can also take a toll on your home's plumbing. Between extra visits to the bathroom and cooking a lot of food, your plumbing system can work overtime. That's why it's important to check for any issues after the holidays. In this article, we'll go over a few plumbing things to check after the holidays. That way you can avoid expensive repairs that can come from the increased holiday use.
Inspect your water heater: If you had a lot of extra guests using hot water for showers, your water heater may have been working overtime. It's a good idea to check the temperature setting to make sure it's not set too high. That can cause the unit to work harder and it might shorten its lifespan. Also, checking for any signs of rust or leaks can warn you if you need to replace your water heater.
Flush the water heater: If it's been a while since you last flushed your water heater, now is a good time to do so. This helps remove any sediment or buildup that may have accumulated in the tank. That can improve the efficiency and lifespan of the unit.
Check for any leaks: The holidays can be busy, and it's easy to overlook small leaks. It's common to find those leaks under your sinks, behind appliances, and in the basement. If you find one, it's essential to address it as soon as possible to prevent further damage. Those small leaks can mean significant water damage if you leave them alone. And that can mean a lot of money in repairs.
Check for any clogs or blockages: With extra cooking, food scraps and grease can go down the drain and cause blockages. The right plunger can clear clogs in the kitchen sink, shower, or toilet. It's also a good idea to check the bathroom sinks and showers for any slow-draining water. If something clogged your main sewer line, you may need to call a professional plumber to clear it.
If you're confused or think there might be a more serious problem, it's a good idea to call a plumber. If you don't already have a plumber you trust, Any Hour Services would be happy to help. One of our licensed plumbers can inspect your system and let you know what your options are. Then they can work with you to pick the best one for your situation. You can give us a call or schedule an appointment online.