Summary: Before hosting summer guests, check toilets, sinks, and outdoor spigots for leaks or slow drains. Use enzyme-based cleaners and avoid putting grease or fibrous foods down the disposal. While hosting, remind guests to flush only toilet paper and use visible trash bins. Afterward, look for leaks or strange sounds and call a pro if anything seems off. A little prep keeps your plumbing running smoothly all summer.
The grills are heating up, the citronella candles are lit, and the party invitations are flying out. From backyard BBQs and graduation parties to full-blown summer weddings under the stars, your home is about to see more action than it has all year. While you’re prepping your playlist and perfecting your potato salad, there’s one crucial detail you don’t want to overlook: your plumbing.
Let’s face it—more guests mean more flushes, more handwashing, and more dishes. That means your plumbing system is working overtime. The last thing you need in the middle of a celebration is a toilet that won’t flush, a kitchen sink that won’t drain, or a surprise puddle where puddles shouldn’t be.
Here’s how to get your plumbing party-ready—and what to do if something goes wrong after the guests go home.
Pre-Party Plumbing Maintenance Checklist
1. Give Your Bathroom Fixtures Some TLC
With more people using your bathroom, make sure everything is in working order before the big event. That means:
- Flush Test: Make sure toilets are flushing fully and refilling quickly.
- Sink Check: Run the water and check for slow drains or gurgling sounds.
- Visual Inspection: Look around the toilet base and under the sink for any signs of leaks or water damage.
Small plumbing issues like a running toilet or a sluggish drain might not seem urgent now, but when you pile on the people, they can turn into major party problems fast.
2. Clear Those Drains
Kitchen and bathroom drains tend to be the first to act up during heavy use. Avoid clogs by:
- Using a safe, enzyme-based drain cleaner a few days before the party.
- Avoiding harsh chemical drain openers, which can damage pipes over time.
- Installing inexpensive mesh drain covers to catch hair and food debris.
If you already notice slow drainage, don’t wait until the day of the party. A quick call to our expert plumbing team now can prevent a major headache later.
Related: What’s That Smell? How to Handle a Clogged Drain
3. Test Your Outdoor Spigots and Hoses
If your summer shindig includes water games, filling drink coolers, or running sprinklers for ambiance (or kids), make sure your outdoor faucets are working well and not leaking. A slow drip from a hose bib might not seem like a big deal—until it turns into an unwanted water feature right in the middle of your party. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of flooding in your yard.
During the Party: Avoiding Emergency Plumbing Issues
Even with the best plumbing system maintenance, party day mishaps can happen. But a little forethought goes a long way.
1. Provide Gentle Reminders
It’s not the most glamorous tip, but it works: put up a small sign in the bathroom reminding guests not to flush anything but toilet paper. You’d be surprised how many plumbing issues are caused by “flushable” wipes, paper towels, and other bathroom offenders that well-meaning guests thought would be no issue at all.
2. Keep Trash Bins Handy
To reinforce this idea, make sure there are clearly visible trash cans in the kitchen, bathrooms, and outside to reduce the temptation to dispose of unwanted items by sending them down the drain.
3. Go Easy on the Garbage Disposal
If your gathering involves a lot of cooking, your garbage disposal could be overwhelmed. Sometimes guests aren’t aware of what can be safely ground up. Avoid sending fibrous foods (like celery or corn husks), greasy leftovers, or starchy foods (like pasta or potato peels) down the disposal. These are common clogging culprits.
After-Party Quick Fixes
Once the last guest has gone and the yard games have been packed away, it’s time to give your plumbing one more check.
1. Look for Leaks or Water Damage
Check under sinks, around the toilet base, and by your water heater for any puddles or moisture that wasn’t there before. Even small leaks can lead to big problems if left unchecked.
2. Listen for Unusual Noises
Hear any hissing, gurgling, or dripping sounds? These could signal hidden leaks or drainage problems that need attention.
3. Schedule a Post-Party Inspection if Needed
If you notice anything unusual—like a toilet that’s still running or a sink that’s draining slower than it was pre-party—it’s best to call in a pro. Catching plumbing issues early keeps them from turning into full-blown disasters.
Related: 8 Ways to Prevent a Plumbing Emergency During Your Holiday Vacation
Stay Ahead of the Game!
Whether you’re throwing the event of the season or just inviting a few friends over for burgers and brews, a little plumbing maintenance can keep your home’s system in top shape.
And if something goes sideways? Don’t panic. Our experienced team is just a call away. We’re ready to tackle any plumbing issue—from clogged drains to full system inspections—so you can get back to enjoying your summer.
Keep the party—and your plumbing—flowing smoothly. Happy hosting!