How to Prevent Clogged Drains Before the Holidays

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Holiday season is approaching, and that means family, friends, and festive meals. While most of us focus on cleaning the oven or prepping guest rooms, there is one often overlooked task: drain maintenance. The chaos of the season can put extra strain on drains. Avoid a backed-up sink or a slow shower drain by following these tips and keep your home running smoothly all season.

Summary

Don’t forget your drains this holiday season.

Holiday gatherings put additional strain on drains and pipes.

Most common problems come from hair and grease.
Zep drain care solutions like Zep Liquid Heat Max can be used to unclog backups quickly.

Small tasks like using strainers, flushing the disposal, and early checks can prevent unwanted clogs.

Why Drains Need Attention Before the Holidays

Plumbers are busiest during the holidays for a reason. Large gatherings mean more cooking, showers, and dishes. This increased use can quickly overwhelm pipes and lead to backups. Not only are emergency calls inconvenient, but they can also be expensive. A little preventative care now can save you from big headaches mid-celebration.

Common Holiday Drain Problems

Kitchen Sink: Big holiday dinners mean more grease, fat, and oils go down the kitchen drain. Over time, these materials will build up and lead to a clogged drainpipe. If you notice food odors or standing water, it’s a warning sign that a larger clog may be forming.

Bathroom Sink & Shower: Extra guests equal more hair, soap, and buildup in the bathroom. Slow drains are the first sign of buildup, and it’s important to knock it out early. Addressing any drain issues before guests arrive ensures everyone can enjoy a comfortable stay.

Garbage Disposal: During the holiday chaos, disposals can be overloaded with food scraps ranging from bones, peels, and starchy foods. Leftover debris can jam the blades and create foul odors.

Drain Care Solutions

For kitchen grease use Zep Advanced Kitchen Sink Drain Opener is safe for garbage disposal and is formulated to break down clogs from grease and grime in the kitchen.

For stubborn bathroom clogs try Zep 10 Minute Drain Opener Gel dissolves hair and soap scum fast to get blocked drains flowing quickly.

For preventative care use Zep Drain Defense Enzymatic Powder breaks down clogs and can be used monthly to keep pipes clean.

For a fast fix skip the plumber with Zep Liquid Heat Max, the industry's toughest formula that eliminates clogs twice as fast as the leading competitor.

Pro Tips to Prevent Clogs

Never pour grease down the sink. Though it seems harmless, it can solidify in the pipes and cause reoccurring blockages.

Run water before and after using the garbage disposal. This helps to flush out any food debris, reduces odors, and keeps disposal blades clear.

Use drain strainers in all showers and tubs. This is an easy step that will catch hair and soap residue before it enters the drain.

Check drains a few days before guests arrive. If you notice a slow-moving drain, treat it right away before it becomes a bigger problem.

Take one thing off your holiday to-do list with a little drain prep. By addressing clogs before they start, you can avoid last-minute stress. To learn more about the cause of clogged drains, check out our blog on 6 Common Drain Clogs and How to Clear Them. Keep your home clog-free and holiday-ready with Zep’s complete line of drain cleaners.