It may surprise you, but Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving, is the busiest day of the year for plumbers, across the United States. We, plumbers, jokingly refer to it as “Brown Friday.” Yuck!
Now, why do you think plumbers are so busy after this particular holiday? Well, there are two common problems that occur. Clogged or broken garbage disposals often happen during this food-focused holiday. Sewer line backups are the other frequent issue. Because a holiday plumbing problem can quickly turn into a plumber-worthy emergency, we’ve provided some preventive tips that hopefully will keep everything smooth-sailing throughout Thanksgiving and the holiday season.
Don’t Put Bones or Peels in the Garbage Disposal
After ten hours of cooking, we understand it’s tempting to shovel what’s left on plates right into the disposal. Don’t do it! Your garbage disposal was never intended to grind bones, or mounds of potato peels for that matter. By doing so, you’re creating a recipe for your disposal’s grinding halt.
Don’t Pour Grease or Oil Down the Drain Either
You would think that pouring a liquid down a drain wouldn’t cause a problem. Think again! The problem with grease and oil is they coagulate, becoming solid and sticky. A lump of grease in your sewer pipe can quickly cause a not so pleasant sewer line backup. Instead, pour unwanted oil and grease in a coffee can or other metal container. Let it cool off and throw it in your garbage can.
Don’t Put Trash or Food Down the Toilet
This seems only logical. Right? Well, a house full of people often leads to guests using toilets as garbage cans. The only thing that should be flushed down is toilet paper and biological waste which dissolves quickly. Anything else can stick around in your sewer pipe and cause a backup. This Thanksgiving give thanks to all guests who only use the toilet for what it was intended to be used for.
Get a Plumbing Check-Up
Do you have frequent sink backups? Do pipes make weird noises or leak? Don’t wait for the busiest day of the year to make that call. Before you are cooking that Thanksgiving turkey, ensure your plumbing is working properly. Call Cool Blew today to schedule a plumbing check-up at 623-872-2900.
Yes, this is not the most pleasant topic, but it’s better to learn these tips and follow them than having sewage bubbling up in your guest bathroom on Thanksgiving evening. By doing so, you won’t have to experience the hassle of Brown Friday.
