What Causes Holiday Plumbing Problems in The Woodlands…and How to Prevent Them
When the holidays arrive, the extra hustle and bustle of activity can negatively affect your home. House guests and constant use of the kitchen cause plumbing systems to work overtime. This is the main reason holiday plumbing problem spike between Thanksgiving and New Year’s.
At The Woodlands Plumbing & Air, we also offer full-service plumbing solutions to combat these seasonal issues that occur every year. With a little preparation and wisdom, most of the typical holiday plumbing emergencies can be avoided. Read on to learn what causes them and how to keep your pipes running smoothly this winter.
Causes of Holiday Plumbing Problems
1. More Guests Means More Plumbing Stress
Whether your home is in Alden Bridge, Sterling Ridge, or Creekside Park, extra people in the home means:
- More showers
- More toilet flushes
- More laundry
- More dishwashing
All of this can put significant strain on older or undersized plumbing systems, leading to clogs, slow drains, or backups.
2. Too Many Cooks in the Kitchen
Holiday cooking is one of the biggest contributors to plumbing issues in the area, especially when it comes to the garbage disposal. Items that commonly clog garbage disposals include:
- Grease and cooking oil
- Turkey drippings
- Rice and pasta
- Potato peels
- Coffee grounds
- Eggshells
Many Woodlands homeowners are surprised to learn that even “harmless” scraps can cause major holiday backups.
3. Weather Swings Can Affect Pipes
While The Woodlands doesn’t experience harsh winters, sudden cold snaps do happen, and when they do, they can cause exposed pipes to freeze and burst. Outdoor plumbing, garage lines, and attic pipes are especially vulnerable in North Houston homes. Rapid temperature changes also cause pipes to expand and contract, increasing the risk of cracks and leaks.
4. Beautiful Trees and Sewer Lines Don’t Mix
Neighborhoods throughout The Woodlands are surrounded by mature trees, which are beautiful, but not great for sewer lines. Tree roots love to find tiny openings in older pipes. Combine root intrusion with heavy holiday sewer usage, and sewer backups often follow.
Seasonal rain in the North Houston area can also saturate soil, putting extra pressure on aging or partially blocked sewer lines.
How Homeowners in The Woodlands Can Prevent Holiday Plumbing Problems
Practice Smart Plumbing Habits
- Never pour grease or oil down your drain — store and toss it.
- Avoid putting bones, coffee grounds, peels, pasta, or rice in the disposal.
- Run cold water before and after using the disposal.
- Clean your dishwasher filter before guests arrive.
- Use strainers in sinks and bathrooms to catch debris that would cause clogs.
- Stagger showers and laundry loads to reduce the strain on your water heater, especially if it is seven years or older.
- Know where your main water shut-off valve is in case an emergency does happen. Quick response to stop water can save thousands in property damage.
These simple steps can prevent most kitchen-related holiday plumbing calls in The Woodlands.
Schedule Pre-Holiday Plumbing Maintenance
Proactive plumbing maintenance from one of our Woodlands licensed plumbers can detect:
- Sluggish drains
- Small leaks
- Weak water pressure
- Worn-out fixtures
- Potential sewer line issues
We also offer Wally’s Savings Club, our exclusive maintenance plan program designed to save you money and make caring for your home easier. If you have a membership with us, we can schedule your winter heating tune-up with a plumbing inspection and water heater flush for added savings and convenience — perfect before a house full of guests.
Get Reliable Plumbing Services in The Woodlands
Whether you’re preparing for holiday guests or dealing with a sudden plumbing issue, our team of expert technicians is here to help. As a premier HVAC and plumbing company serving The Woodlands, Conroe, Spring, Magnolia, and North Houston, we keep homes safe, comfortable, and running smoothly year-round, especially during the busy holiday season. Call today or schedule online to avoid holiday plumbing nightmares.
