We all know what Black Friday is, but have you heard of Brown Friday?
“Brown Friday,” the day after Thanksgiving, is one of the busiest days of the year for plumbers due to an increase in plumbing issues from holiday gatherings. The following tips can help you prevent sewer backups and plumbing emergencies this holiday season.
Kitchen Tips:
- Avoid Pouring Grease Down the Drain: Grease and cooking oils solidify in pipes, leading to clogs. Let grease cool, then dispose of it in the trash.
- Scrape Plates Before Rinsing: Clear food scraps into the trash or compost bin instead of washing them down the sink.
- Use a Sink Strainer: Install a strainer to catch food debris and keep it out of your pipes.
- Don’t Overload the Garbage Disposal: Dispose of small amounts of soft, non-fibrous scraps only. Avoid items like potato peels, pasta, rice, and coffee grounds.
Bathroom Tips:
- Flush Only Toilet Paper: Remind guests that wipes, tissues, and other hygiene products should go in the trash, even if labeled “flushable.”
- Monitor Water Usage: With more people in the house, stagger showers, dishwashing, and laundry to prevent overloading your sewer system.
Be Prepared:
- Know Your Cleanout Location: Familiarize yourself with the main sewer cleanout in case of an emergency.
- Contact a Professional: If you suspect a blockage or slow drainage, call a plumber before it worsens.
Taking these precautions can help you avoid costly repairs and ensure a stress-free holiday weekend.
