The holidays are when many households host large gatherings and do a lot of cooking. That activity can put a great deal of strain on your entire plumbing system. It can also reveal problems that have been lingering. Let’s explore the steps to avoid plumbing mishaps this holiday season.
Book Annual Water Heater Maintenance
A common mistake homeowners make is not taking a proactive approach to their water heaters. Inadequate maintenance will drive up your operating costs and put you at risk of being without hot water this holiday. Plumbing experts recommend annual maintenance for all water heaters. This includes cleaning and calibrating thermostats, heating elements, heat exchangers, and combustion equipment.
Tank systems are the most common type of water heater in American homes. These units store and heat water in a tank. A plumber will check all the valves and replace them as needed. It’s important to flush the tank to remove all sediment and limescale. A plumber will also check and replace the sacrificial anode rod as needed. The anode rod attracts corrosion and scale through electrolysis to protect the tank.
If you have a tankless system, it needs descaling instead. A plumber uses a recirculating pump and, typically, a water-vinegar solution to clean the water heater. Tankless systems also often have water and air filters that need cleaning or replacement. If you have an anti-scale device, it will require servicing as well.
All water heaters require insulation on the lines connected to the system. A plumber needs to check that insulation and replace it when it starts to wear. If you don’t have insulation, you should add it right away. Electric tank water heaters may benefit from additional insulation, like a water heater jacket or an insulated base.
Schedule a Whole-Home Plumbing Inspection
Many people don’t think about their plumbing systems until there’s a problem. A more proactive approach can save money and help avoid holiday disasters. Experts recommend scheduling a whole-home plumbing inspection every year. Using high-definition cameras and other advanced equipment, a plumber can identify maintenance issues and more serious problems.
Adjust Water Pressure
Occasional low pressure may just indicate a water supply issue and usually isn’t cause for concern. Persistent low water pressure generally suggests a more serious problem. If it’s limited to the hot water, it’s a water heater issue. If it’s more widespread, it could be a:

Leaking pipe
Clogged pipe
Corroded pipe
Broken water main
Closed or faulty valve

Insulate Pipes That Run Through Unheated Spaces
Any pipe that runs through an unheated space is at risk of freezing and bursting. That includes plumbing near exterior walls and plumbing in attics, crawl spaces, and basements. Foam insulation is typically inexpensive and very effective at preventing freezing. If you have any pipes at high risk of freezing, there are more advanced options, such as heat tape.
Let Faucets Drip on Freezing Nights
Even with insulation, you should take care on nights when you expect freezing temperatures. The first step is to open your kitchen and bathroom cabinets beneath the sinks. If that’s not enough to keep the pipes warm, open the faucets to a trickle. That slight trickle will prevent ice from accumulating and increasing pressure in the pipes.
Schedule Drain Cleaning at the First Signs of Trouble
Don’t allow a slow drain to worsen, as it’s a health concern and will develop into a more serious problem. Call for drain cleaning if you notice a slow drain, standing water, odd drainage-related sounds, or unpleasant smells. Widespread issues can indicate a problem with your sewer. This can include multiple slow drains, gurgling toilets, and fluctuating water levels.
Use Your Garbage Disposal Appropriately
A garbage disposal is an excellent investment because it makes kitchen cleanup easier and helps to avoid drainage issues. Garbage disposals require annual cleaning and maintenance. Consider replacing your garbage disposal after 10 years of use. Take care to never put items in that the system can’t handle, such as bones and coffee grounds.
Dispose of Grease Properly
Never put grease down your drains, as even a small amount can start a clog. This is good advice even if you have a garbage disposal. Instead, store the grease in a closed container and discard it with your other trash.
Take Care of Your Toilets
Never pour grease down your toilets either. Also, don’t flush any bathroom products outside of regular toilet paper. If you notice ineffective flushing, gurgling, or fluctuating water levels, call a plumber. The symptoms can indicate a local clog but also a blockage deeper in the system.
Install a Sump Pump and Maintain It
If you’ve ever had excess moisture in your basement or crawl space, you may need a sump pump. A sump pump may also be a good idea if you’re on low-lying land or in an area with a high water table. Pedestal pumps tend to be cheaper and easier to maintain. Submersible pumps are more expensive and require more maintenance but can handle a greater volume of water.
If your home has a standby generator, you can rely solely on your primary sump pump. If you don’t, you’ll need a battery-powered backup pump. In the event of a power outage, this emergency system will cycle on to avoid a flood. Both primary and backup systems require annual maintenance. Experts recommend replacement every 7-10 years.
Consider a Water Softener
Do you have hard water? If you aren’t sure, you should schedule a test to find out. If you do, you should install a whole-house water softener. A water softener will usually pay for itself over the life of the equipment. Hard water decreases water heater and other appliance efficiency and life expectancy. It also clogs pipes, which lowers water pressure, and eventually compromises them.
Install Leak Detection Equipment
Leak detection equipment is a highly recommended upgrade for any home. A plumber can install sensors wherever there’s a heightened risk of a leak. That includes exterior plumbing, supply lines, dishwashers, washing machines, and refrigerators. Even basic systems can detect leaks right away and raise an alarm. Smart systems can notify you via your phone, and advanced systems can even disable the water main automatically.
Reliable Plumbing Services in Central Kentucky
Absolute Services has locations in Elizabethtown, Lexington, and Louisville, KY and has been serving this region since 2008. We started out as a garage door company that installs and services all manner of garage doors and openers. Our company added licensed electricians who specialize in wiring, electrical panels, standby generators, indoor and outdoor lighting, ceiling fans, and more. We have HVAC technicians who install and service furnaces, heat pumps, air conditioners, ductless mini-splits, humidifiers, and air purification systems. Our company also has plumbers who pipe and repipe gas, water, and sewer lines. They also specialize in water heaters, sump pumps, garbage disposals, and much more kitchen plumbing and bathroom plumbing repairs.
Contact us today with any questions about these products and plumbing services or to schedule an appointment.