The holiday season is a time for family, friends, and festive gatherings—which often means more guests using your home’s bathrooms. If your plumbing isn’t up to par, it can quickly turn a joyful occasion into a stressful one. The last thing you want is an overflowing toilet or a sluggish drain when visitors are around.
At Michael Runk Plumbing & Heating, we’ve helped countless Maryland homeowners prepare their plumbing systems for the holidays. Whether you’re hosting overnight guests or just having people over for dinner, this guide will help you ensure your bathroom is guest-ready—and free of surprises.
1. Test the Toilet for Efficiency
Start by flushing your toilet and observing how it performs. Does it flush completely and refill quickly? If your toilet runs too long, doesn’t flush well, or shows signs of leaking, it may need a minor repair like a flapper replacement—or it could be time for an upgrade to a more efficient model.
Pro Tip: Add a few drops of food coloring to the tank and wait 15 minutes. If color appears in the bowl, you’ve got a leak that needs attention.
2. Check for Slow or Clogged Drains
Slow drains in your bathroom sink, shower, or tub are a sign of buildup in your pipes—something you don’t want to deal with during holiday hosting. Hair, soap scum, and even hard water minerals can lead to blockages over time.
If you’ve noticed water pooling or draining slowly, schedule a professional drain cleaning before guests arrive. It’s a quick fix that can prevent an embarrassing backup during your holiday dinner.
3. Inspect for Leaks Under the Sink
A leak under the bathroom sink might not be obvious unless you check. Before your guests arrive, open the vanity cabinet and inspect for signs of moisture, warped wood, or a musty smell. Even a slow drip can lead to water damage or mold if left unchecked.
If you spot anything unusual, don’t wait—call a professional plumber to take care of it.
4. Ensure Hot Water Is Available
Your hot water heater may be working fine for your household, but throw a few guests into the mix and suddenly it’s not enough. If you’ve had issues with lukewarm water or running out of hot water too quickly, now’s the time to get your water heater inspected.
A professional flush and maintenance check can restore your system’s performance. In some cases, it may be time to consider a high-efficiency upgrade or a tankless water heater if you frequently host.
5. Test the Bathroom Fan and Ventilation
While it’s not technically plumbing, your bathroom’s ventilation system plays a huge role in comfort and cleanliness. A poorly ventilated bathroom can lead to lingering odors, excess moisture, and even mold growth.
Make sure the exhaust fan is working properly. If it’s noisy, ineffective, or outdated, consider having it replaced. Your guests—and your bathroom walls—will thank you.
6. Stock the Essentials (and Know Where the Shut-Off Valves Are)
Make sure your bathroom is fully stocked with toilet paper, hand soap, and clean towels. It’s also a good idea to keep a plunger handy and visible, just in case.
Most importantly, make sure you know where the shut-off valves are located in case of an emergency. If a leak or overflow happens, being able to quickly cut the water supply can prevent major damage.
Get Holiday-Ready with Confidence
A little preparation goes a long way when it comes to plumbing. Don’t wait until your holiday guests are knocking to find out something’s wrong. Let Michael Runk Plumbing & Heating help you check everything off your list so your bathroom is holiday-ready—and worry-free.
Need a professional plumbing checkup before the holidays? Contact us today to schedule your inspection and repairs before the rush!