Spring is steadily approaching and travelers are migrating down south to soak up the sun. During the spring holiday seasons, more than 90 million American’s will be traveling, according to Good Housekeeping.
How many visitors? The average holiday party consists of twelve people. The average person uses the restroom between six and eight times per day, that can result in as many as 96 extra flushes.
Toilets will have extra use over the coming weeks and months as we move into Spring Breaks, Spring Training and Easter. Everyone thinks of the perfect outings and travel destinations, vacuuming floors and shining the silverware, but no one seems to think about giving their toilet a check up before guests arrive
I want to make sure my readers know how to avoid an unwanted plumbing disaster over the next couple of weeks. Below are my top 5 holiday plumbing checklist items.
1. Flush toilets in the guest bathroom at least once per day for a week leading up to guests arrival. Most guest bathrooms go months without being used. Flushing early will ensure that the toilets plumbing is still functioning and gets a warm-up prior to heavy use.
2. Washing machines, dishwashers, kitchen sinks, showers and water heaters get lots of extra use as well. We suggest turning the water heater up slightly (no higher than 120 degrees Fahrenheit to avoid scolding) and space out the use of the shower and other appliances that require large amounts of hot water.
3. Soak each shower head in vinegar overnight and scrub off excess mineral deposits in the morning. This will help maximize water pressure. Simply tie a plastic bag filled with a cup of vinegar and water around the shower-head before bed and remove in the morning.
4. Treat the kitchen sink with care. Wipe all grease and oils from pots and scrap all hash and stringy foods such as turkey skin, carrot skins, potato skins and cheese, all of which can lead to clogs, from the dishes before placing them in the sink to be cleaned.
5. Dispose of liquid fats in a jar in the trash rather than pouring them down the drain. It’s also important to run cold water down the drain for thirty seconds before and after use, and always exercise portion control; never put large amounts of food down the disposal at one time. Keep a close eye on potential clogging agents and avoiding pushing the fixtures’ limits will keep the kitchen sink and disposal in top shape.
I can’t stress enough how crucial it is to spend some time thinking about your home’s plumbing systems and paying attention to how they are being used and will be used during this season. Everyone’s had the holiday plumbing disasters, and they can be prevented quite simply.
When making a checklist for the coming weeks, adding these simple steps will take away many potential stresses of the season. It’s a win-win situation for both guests and hosts.
For more information about Benjamin Franklin, The Punctual Plumber please visit: www.benfranklinplumbingaz.com or call 602-485-1111.
