Last Updated: February 25, 2026 — Reviewed by Brian Hayes, Licensed Master Plumber
When the stockings are hung by the yuletide with care, and your beloved family are gathered around the dressed turkey—it is a terrible time for a clogged pipe, broken toilet, sewage seepage or other plumbing maintenance issue (not that there is a good time!).
How to Prevent a Holiday Plumbing Disaster: With Plumbing Maintenance
Preventing a turkey-side three-ring plumbing circus is relatively easy, simply follow these basic plumbing maintenance tips:
1. Don’t Put Grease Down your Drain
Putting grease from your turkey or other ‘fixings’ down your drain is a sure-fire way to clog it, so be extra-special cautious around the holiday season not to put anything drain-clogging down the pipes. This includes fat and grease from meats, butter, margarine, cooking oils, lard, food scraps, dairy and salad dressing.
2. Check your Drains
While you’re remembering your drains—check to see that they’re draining properly. Fill the sink slightly, and then watch to see that it drains quickly. If the drain isn’t swirling down quickly then fix the clog—because it will only get worse with holiday festivities.
3. Check your Toilets
The last thing you want is a broken or overflowing toilet while you’re having guests over, so check your toilet for leaks or clogs before the holiday season. If the seal isn’t tight or there are any leaks, fix them ASAP.
4. Appliances
Double-check that your appliances are functioning properly well before an event—because getting someone there to repair them around the holidays will likely take more than a couple days.
Should you discover any major problems with your plumbing maintenance, appliances, drains, pipes, toilets or bathroom—call the pros here at Hayes. We’ll set a convenient time to send one of our experienced plumbers by to snake your drain, fix your toilet or fix your plumbing issue—before your major holiday celebrations. But, be sure to check your plumbing, drains, kitchen and bathrooms now—so that you can schedule an appointment in the near future, well before your event…and take a little bit of stress out of your pre-party planning.
Additional Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I call a plumber for plumbing maintenance?
You should call a licensed plumber for plumbing maintenance when the issue persists after basic troubleshooting, involves water pressure changes, or requires access to pipes behind walls. Hayes Plumbing serves Oshawa, Ajax, Whitby, Clarington, and Pickering.
How much does plumbing maintenance cost in Durham Region?
The cost of plumbing maintenance in Durham Region depends on the complexity of the job and parts required. Hayes Plumbing provides upfront pricing before beginning any work so there are no surprises.
Should I try DIY or hire a professional for plumbing maintenance?
While minor issues can sometimes be addressed with DIY methods, plumbing maintenance often requires a licensed plumber to ensure the work meets Ontario plumbing code. Hayes Plumbing is fully licensed, WSIB certified, and BBB accredited.
Need help with plumbing repairs or installations? Hayes Plumbing & Bathroom Renovations serves Oshawa, Ajax, Whitby, Clarington, and Pickering. Contact us or call (905) 576-3043 for a free estimate.
