…And How Tulsa Homeowners Can Prevent Them
When the holidays roll around, Tulsa homes get busier. Guests arrive, kitchens stay in overdrive, and plumbing systems suddenly must work much harder than they do the rest of the year. It’s no surprise that plumbing emergencies skyrocket between Thanksgiving and New Year’s.
As a Tulsa HVAC company that also provides full-service plumbing, we see this trend every season. The good news is most holiday plumbing problems are preventable. Here’s why they happen and how to keep your home running smoothly all season long.
Why Holiday Plumbing Problems Happen
1. Extra Guests Mean Extra Water Use
When friends and family stay over, your home’s plumbing system gets pushed to its limits. More showers, more toilet flushes, more laundry, and more dishes can overwhelm older or already-strained pipes.
2. Kitchen Overload During Holiday Cooking
Holiday cooking is one of the biggest culprits behind clogged drains. Grease, fats, poultry skin, potato peels, rice, and other scraps often end up in the garbage disposal even though many of these items should never go down the drain. Tulsa plumbers often see severe blockages caused by repeated disposal misuse over several days of holiday prep and family festivities.
3. Cold Weather Stress on Pipes
Tulsa winters are unpredictable. Sudden cold fronts can cause pipes, especially in older or uninsulated ones. This causes them to freeze and burst. With temperatures frequently swinging in late November and December, pipes can contract and expand quickly, increasing the risk of cracks and leaks.
4. Increased Sewer Line Usage
If your sewer line has roots, buildup, or aging pipes, the added holiday usage can trigger backups. Heavy rains can also pick up for Green Country at this time of year, too, which can saturate the ground and worsen sewer line stress. At Air Assurance, we offer professional sewer services to keep your pipes moving as they should.
How Tulsa Homeowners Can Prevent Holiday Plumbing Issues
Prep Your Kitchen Before the Big Cooking Days
- Never pour grease or cooking oil down the drain — instead, collect it in a container and throw it away.
- Avoid putting eggshells, bones, pasta, rice, coffee grounds, or potato peels in the disposal.
- Run cold water before and after using your disposal to keep food moving through the line.
- Make sure your dishwasher filter is cleaned before holiday gatherings.
Get Ahead with a Pre-Holiday Plumbing Inspection
A quick visit from one of Air Assurance’s licensed Tulsa plumbing experts can catch hidden issues like slow drains, weak water pressure, or minor leaks before guests arrive. Our leak detection services can identify possible problems without invasive procedures. If your HVAC company also offers plumbing (like we do), you can bundle services for seasonal savings and convenience. Our Extended Service Plan is designed to safeguard against improper maintenance, neglect, and ultimately equipment failure. Consider having your winter furnace maintenance conducted at the same time!
Protect Your Pipes from Cold Snaps
- Insulate exposed pipes in garages, crawl spaces, and outdoor areas.
- Open cabinet doors on cold nights to let warm air circulate around kitchen and bathroom plumbing.
- Let faucets drip slightly during freezing to prevent pressure buildup.
Space Out Showers and Laundry
Give your water heater and plumbing system a break by staggering shower times and laundry loads. This helps maintain hot water and reduces strain on your drainage system — especially important in older Tulsa homes.
Use Strainers in Sinks and Showers
Simple mesh strainers catch hair, food scraps, and debris before they can form clogs.
Know Where Your Main Water Shutoff Valve Is
If a pipe bursts or a major leak happens, shutting off the water quickly can prevent hundreds or even thousands of dollars in damage.
When to Call a Plumber
While DIY maintenance goes a long way, you should call your professional Air Assurance plumber if you notice:
- Slow draining sinks or tubs
- Gurgling toilets
- Low water pressure
- Recurring drain clogs
- Sudden spikes in water bills
- Water heater problems
- Sewage smells or backups
Problems that seem small now often become full emergencies during the holidays — and those always happen at the worst possible time.
Avoid Holiday Stress with Reliable Tulsa Plumbing Services
Whether you’re preparing for holiday guests or dealing with an unexpected clog, leak, or sewer backup, our plumbing team is here to help. As Tulsa’s trusted HVAC and plumbing professionals, we keep your home comfortable, efficient, and safe all year long — especially during the busy holiday season. Schedule online today.