The holidays are a time to get together and celebrate. Before the festivities is the hectic planning and cleaning before the guests arrive. If you plan on having guests stay over for the holidays, you’ll have to do a lot more than some light dusting.
At Mission AC & Plumbing, we understand how stressful these times can be. We’ve compiled some plumbing and HVAC tasks you can add to your to-do list before the guests arrive. Be sure to check this list twice!
Prevent/Fix Common Plumbing Issues
Have a clogged drain you haven’t gotten around to fixing? Afraid your drains won’t be up to the task of more use? Now is the time to fix what needs fixing and prevent any possible problems.
Drain Cleaning
‘Tis the season to clean your drains! Drain clogs are common but annoying problems. They don’t happen overnight, though. Clogs build up over time, which means you have a chance to stop them in their tracks before they become problems.
You could use drain cleaner or vinegar to flush out your drains. However, the most efficient method is to contact a plumbing company for a full drain cleaning. It may be the pricier option, but it’s one less thing for you to worry about.
Garbage Disposal Replacement
Garbage disposals are convenient additions to any kitchen, but they’ll become burdens if they break. It’s best to be aware of what can and cannot go in garbage disposals.
Some examples of what can go in include:
- Fruit scraps
- Ice
- Vegetable scraps
- Liquid foods
- Soft foods
Some items that should never go in a garbage disposal are:
- Grease
- Oils
- Eggshells
- Coffee grounds
- Potato skins
- Onion peels
Run cold water before, during and after using the disposal. It’s also best to turn on the grinder before putting anything in it. These will help prevent clogs, even if you’re grinding “safe” items.
If the only problem you’re experiencing is a bad smell, then grind up some citrus peels for a fresher scent.
Preventing Clogs
Clogged sinks and toilets are the last things you need when you have company.
To prevent a clogged sink, avoid pouring oils or grease down the drain. These can solidify in the pipes and block any water from draining. The same goes for large food items, especially when you don’t have a garbage disposal. Use strainers to avoid food clogs.
As for toilets, keep a reliable plunger handy. It might not be the most sightly addition to a bathroom, but it’s a necessary one. It’s also a good idea to keep a wastebasket in bathrooms for the disposal of paper products like tissues or wipes.
Prepare Water Heater
Your water heater works hard, and with the addition of houseguests, it’ll be forced to work even harder. It’s an essential part of your plumbing system, so it’s best to make sure it can handle the strain the holidays will bring.
First, you can turn the heater up to raise its capacity. Don’t go over 120 degrees Fahrenheit, however. After all the guests have left, remember to turn your heater back down to its original temperature.
Additionally, you can encourage spacing out showers. Continuous showers can put a strain on your water heater. It will also make for a pretty cold shower. Giving the water heater time to recover will let it produce more hot water.
Get An HVAC Tune-Up
Your plumbing isn’t the only appliance you need to worry about before having guests over. A heater tune-up can help prepare your furnace for the holiday season. Here are some reasons maintenance is beneficial:
- Prevents future problems
- Extends furnace lifespan
- Keeps heater running efficiently
- Saves you money on energy bills
At Mission AC, we offer a 21-point tune-up sure to revitalize your furnace for the holidays. We inspect all moving parts to prevent any issues. We also clean out your HVAC system and ensure your home is getting proper airflow.
Turn To The Experts
Make a to-do list and check it twice before the guests arrive. Plumbing and HVAC are essential things to prepare before house guests arrive for the holidays.
At Mission AC, we’re dedicated to great service. We guarantee your appliance won’t break down after a repair or tune-up. Contact us today and see the Mission AC difference!
