The holidays are here, and that means family gatherings, festive meals, and maybe a bit more flushing than usual! To keep things flowing smoothly, it’s essential to follow a few holiday septic tips. Here’s how to avoid any septic surprises, so you can enjoy a hassle-free holiday season.
Holiday Septic Tips for a Clog-Free Season
With extra guests comes extra water and waste, so now is the time to reinforce the rule of the “3 P’s”: only flush pee, poo and (toilet) paper. Even “flushable” wipes don’t break down properly in septic systems and can lead to clogs. Gently remind guests to keep anything else out of the toilet to avoid unexpected plumbing issues!
In the kitchen, keep holiday cooking grease and food scraps out of the sink. Pour grease into a disposable container like this one, instead of down the drain and dispose of food scraps in the trash rather than using the garbage disposal. These small steps protect your pipes and keep your septic system running smoothly.
Keep the Showers Merry, Not Scary
It’s a joy to have a full house, but back-to-back showers can strain your septic system. If possible, stagger shower times to give your system time to process the extra water. This helps prevent any backups—and keeps the hot water flowing, so you don’t hear a chilly scream from the shower!
For those long holiday weekends, consider spacing out laundry loads as well. Running too many loads can overwhelm your system, so try to wash clothes before guests arrive or wait until after they leave.
Schedule a Pre-Holiday Pumping
If it’s been a while since your last septic pump, consider scheduling one before the holiday festivities. A pre-holiday pump can help handle the extra demand, giving you peace of mind for all those big meals and gatherings. If you can’t do it before, book it right after the holidays to start the new year worry-free.
Enjoy your holiday season with peace of mind, knowing your septic system can handle the celebrations. With these holiday septic tips, you’ll be ready for anything—from carolers at the door to extra flushes in the bathroom. Happy hosting!
