If you have decided to host the family Thanksgiving celebration in your home this year you've probably already considered the extra housework this entails. What you may not have considered is the extra strain it will put on your plumbing. Your plumbing will likely worker harder on Thanksgiving day than any other day of the year. That means it is more susceptible to mishaps that can cause plumbing emergencies and put a damper on all your holiday plans. There are things you can do to ward off trouble. Take these steps to minimize the risk of plumbing issues during your holiday celebration.

The Garbage Disposal

Make sure everyone who will be cooking or helping clean up after the meal understands what can and what cannot be disposed of in the garbage disposal. If you suspect a variety of people will pitch in to help, don't be afraid to post a list of do's and don't's beside your disposal. After all, those who do not have garbage disposals at home won't be as familiar with the common no-no's as you are. 

• Grease
• Corn Husks
• Bones
• Celery
• Eggshells
• Potato Peelings
• Pasta

Don't forget to instruct helpers to run the water before adding food to the disposal. 

The Kitchen Sink

The biggest culprit that causes clogged drains in the kitchen sink is grease, but grease is not limited to the drippings in the bottom of your roasting pan. Avoid all sources of fats, oils and grease (FOG). Some common source include:

• Gravy
• Heavy Sauces
• Cheese Sauces or Dips
• Mayo
• Sour Cream
• Dressings

Avoid the temptation to wash containers and tableware that has contained any of these items without scraping any leftovers in the trash first. If necessary, wipe away traces of fats and oils with a paper towel before washing the dishes. Dispose of the towel in the trash.

Bathrooms

With all the eating and drinking at your celebration the bathroom will soon become a very popular place. The added use can put a strain on the toilet and make it more likely to clog. To head off toilet problems before they arise take the following steps.

• Instruct your family and guests to flush the toilet twice with every use. This will ensure that all waste has been adequately flushed down the drain instead of quietly building up.
• Provide a place for discreet disposal of feminine hygiene products, especially if you have teen girls as guests. This prevents an embarrassed teen from flushing items that shouldn't be flushed because she doesn't know what else to do.

Plumbing emergencies can often be avoided with a few simple precautions, but if something goes wrong and your plumbing needs attention, don't hesitate to give the professionals at Amanda Plumbing Sewer and Drain a call. Trying to fix the plumbing yourself (unless you have experience with the issue) can lead to more aggravation and may make the problem worse. We are available for emergency call 24/7 every day of the year.