Christmas is one of the busiest times of year for plumbing systems in North Brisbane homes. Extra guests, more cooking, more washing up and frequent summer storms all place added pressure on your drains. Unfortunately, it is also one of the most common times for blockages and backups to occur.
At Turbo Plumbing Solutions, we see the same drain problems every festive season. The good news is that most of them are preventable. Here are some practical tips to help you take care of your drains and protect your home this Christmas.
Be Careful What Goes Down the Kitchen Sink
Christmas cooking creates more waste than usual. Grease, oils, sauces and food scraps are the biggest culprits when it comes to blocked kitchen drains. Even when washed down with hot water, fats cool inside the pipes and harden, slowly building up until a blockage forms.
Scrape plates into the bin before rinsing, avoid pouring cooking oils down the sink and use sink strainers to catch food debris. These small habits make a big difference during the festive season.
Do Not Overload the Drainage System
With more people using bathrooms, laundry facilities and sinks, your drainage system is working harder than normal. Spacing out showers, laundry loads and dishwashing helps reduce strain and prevents slow drainage or backups.
If you notice gurgling sounds, slow draining water or unpleasant smells, these are early warning signs that your drains need attention before the problem escalates.
Watch What Goes Down Toilets
Extra guests often mean unfamiliar bathroom habits. Remind visitors that toilets are only designed for human waste and toilet paper. Items like wipes, paper towels, sanitary products and food scraps can easily cause blockages.
Even products labelled as flushable do not always break down properly and can contribute to sewer issues, especially in older North Brisbane homes.
Keep Outdoor Drains Clear Before Storms
December storms can arrive quickly and dump large amounts of rain in a short time. Leaves, dirt and garden debris easily wash into outdoor drains and stormwater lines, causing overflow and flooding around the home.
Before Christmas gatherings begin, check that outdoor drains, grates and gutters are clear. This simple step helps protect your property from water pooling and drainage issues during summer storms.
Be Aware of Tree Roots
Many North Brisbane suburbs are filled with mature trees. While they provide shade and character, their roots often invade underground pipes searching for moisture. Increased water use during Christmas can worsen existing root intrusion problems.
If your drains regularly slow down after rain or make gurgling noises, a professional inspection may be needed to identify root damage before a full blockage occurs.
Avoid Chemical Drain Cleaners
When drains start to slow, it can be tempting to reach for store bought chemical cleaners. These products often do more harm than good. They rarely remove the full blockage and can damage pipes, especially older plumbing systems.
