Holiday Tips to Prevent a Septic Emergency

As the holidays approach, it's not just the festivities and gatherings you need to prepare for—your plumbing and septic systems also need some attention. With guests coming over, the increased water usage, food waste, and more activity can strain your home’s plumbing, potentially leading to backups, clogged drains, and septic system failures. To help avoid these plumbing issues and keep your holidays running smoothly, here are some essential tips for maintaining your septic system.

Dispose of Grease, Fats, and Oils Properly

While it may seem convenient to pour grease, fats, or oils down the drain or garbage disposal after cooking, this can cause significant plumbing problems. These substances harden as they cool, creating stubborn blockages in your pipes. Instead of pouring them down the drain, dispose of these materials in the trash. A little preparation can prevent costly plumbing issues down the line.

Be Cautious with Garbage Disposal

Your garbage disposal is a workhorse in the kitchen, but it has its limits. Avoid putting fibrous, starchy, or hard-to-grind materials like celery, potato peels, rice, and pasta into the disposal. These items can cause clogs and strain the system. Scrape leftovers into the trash before washing dishes to prevent food scraps from entering the drain.

Additionally, don’t overload the garbage disposal. If you’re processing a large amount of food, run the disposal in smaller intervals with cold water running to help materials move through the pipes smoothly. Running it all at once may cause a backup or clog.

Pacing Showers and Baths

With the increased number of guests using your bathrooms, it’s essential to pace water usage to avoid overwhelming your plumbing. Ask your guests to wait at least ten minutes between showers or baths, allowing the drain time to clear. This small adjustment can prevent water from backing up and causing a plumbing disaster.

Say No to Flushing Non-Flushable Items

One of the biggest mistakes people make is flushing items that shouldn’t be flushed. Items like cotton swabs, feminine hygiene products, and dental floss can cause significant blockages in your plumbing system. Even “flushable” wipes can wreak havoc as they don’t dissolve like toilet paper. Be sure to remind your guests to only flush the basics to keep your plumbing in good working condition.

Pre-Holiday Septic Maintenance

“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” and this is especially true when it comes to your septic system. Before the holiday season is in full swing, schedule a maintenance check with a reputable septic service provider. Regular maintenance can help identify and fix potential issues, saving you from emergency repairs during the holidays.

What to Do If You Experience a Septic Emergency

If something does go wrong with your septic system, don’t panic. At Wind River Environmental, we are ready to assist with any emergency septic service you may need. Our expert team is equipped to diagnose and resolve problems quickly, ensuring that your home’s plumbing and septic system return to optimal condition so you can continue enjoying the season with peace of mind.