Thanksgiving means family, friends, and delicious food—but it can also mean major plumbing stress. Between heavy kitchen use, extra guests, and endless dishes, your drains and garbage disposal work overtime.
At Ensor Plumbing, we’ve seen it all. That’s why we’ve put together our best advice for preventing garbage disposal problems and getting your home plumbing ready for the holidays.
1. Common Garbage Disposal Issues (and How to Prevent Them)
Your garbage disposal is one of the most used—and most abused—appliances in your kitchen. Here’s what can go wrong and how to keep it running smoothly:
Clogs and Jams
The problem: You hear a hum, but the blades won’t spin.
The fix: Avoid putting bones, fruit pits, fibrous veggies (like celery or corn husks), pasta, or grease down the drain. Always run cold water while using the disposal and for 10–15 seconds afterward.
Power or Reset Issues
The problem: The unit won’t turn on.
The fix: Check the power plug, press the red reset button under the unit, or reset the circuit breaker. If it still won’t respond, call a professional before forcing it.
Leaks and Slow Draining
The problem: You notice dripping under the sink or slow water drainage.
The fix: Check pipe joints and gaskets for looseness. If drainage is slow, try flushing with baking soda and vinegar—not chemical cleaners, which can corrode pipes.
Foul Odors
The problem: Bad smells even when the sink looks clean.
The fix: Freshen up your disposal with lemon or orange peels, or grind ice cubes with baking soda to clean the blades.
💡 Pro Tip: Run your garbage disposal regularly to prevent rust and buildup, even when you’re not cooking much.
2. Your Thanksgiving Plumbing Checklist
Don’t wait until your guests arrive to test your plumbing! Here’s how to prep every part of your home for the holiday rush.
In the Kitchen
- Scrape plates first. Toss food scraps, bones, and grease in the trash—not the sink.
- Run plenty of water. Before and after disposal use to flush food waste.
- Clean drains. A baking soda + vinegar mix a day before Thanksgiving helps prevent clogs.
- Check your dishwasher connection. Make sure its drain line is secure and clear.
- Inspect your disposal. Run it before guests arrive to ensure it’s functioning properly.
In the Bathroom
- Flush test every toilet. Fix any that run continuously or flush weakly.
- Clear shower and tub drains. Use an enzyme cleaner or hair trap.
- Inspect for leaks. Check under sinks and around faucets.
- Remind guests politely. Only toilet paper should be flushed—no wipes, cotton, or paper towels.
- Know your shut-off valve. Be ready to act quickly if a leak happens.
3. Why the Day After Thanksgiving Is “Plumber’s Super Bowl”
Fun fact (or not so fun if it’s your house): the day after Thanksgiving is one of the busiest days of the year for plumbers.
With all the food prep, grease, and guest usage, drains get overloaded and disposals give up.
To avoid an emergency call:
- Space out water-heavy chores like dishwashing and laundry.
- Never pour turkey grease down the drain—it solidifies fast!
- Keep a plumber’s number handy—Ensor Plumbing is always ready to help.
4. When to Call Ensor Plumbing
Even with the best prevention, plumbing surprises happen. Contact Ensor Plumbing if you notice:
- Water backing up into your sink or dishwasher
- Persistent odors or leaks under the sink
- Strange grinding noises from your disposal
- Slow drains or gurgling sounds after guests leave
We’re available for emergency service, drain cleaning, and disposal repair or replacement—so your holiday stays merry, not messy.
Give Thanks for Smooth Plumbing This Season
This Thanksgiving, focus on your family—not your plumbing. With a few smart precautions and help from Ensor Plumbing, you can keep the festivities running smoothly.
Contact Ensor Plumbing today to schedule your pre-holiday inspection or emergency service.