Why Your Garbage Disposal May Struggle During Holiday Feasts

At The Katy Plumbing Company, we understand that the holiday season often comes with a flurry of activity in the kitchen. With family gatherings, elaborate meals, and busy cleanup routines, it’s no surprise that garbage disposal problems during holidays are more common than you might think. All those extra leftovers, thick sauces, and fibrous vegetables can put your disposal—and your plumbing—under serious strain.

Common Garbage Disposal Issues During the Holidays

As your home fills with guests and cooking responsibilities multiply, it’s natural to lean more heavily on your kitchen sink. Unfortunately, not all kitchen scraps play nicely with your disposal. Foods like potato peels, coffee grounds, and fibrous vegetables (like celery) can cause stubborn clogs. Grease and oils, when rinsed down the drain, congeal as they cool, further contributing to blockages. The result? Slow-draining water, foul odors, and a stressed disposal unit that can’t keep up with the demands of holiday hosting.

If you find yourself facing these common garbage disposal issues, don’t hesitate to explore our services to help restore your kitchen’s efficiency.

Why the Holiday Season Makes a Difference

During the holidays, your disposal may run more in one day than it typically does in a week. From tackling piles of dinnerware to disposing of food scraps from multiple courses, the workload grows substantially. This surge in use is why many homeowners turn to holiday plumbing tips—simple preventative measures that can help you avoid the inconvenience of a clogged sink right when guests are due to arrive.

How to Prevent Garbage Disposal Clogs

At The Katy Plumbing Company, we’ve helped countless homeowners in the Katy area keep their kitchens running smoothly year-round. Here’s how to prevent garbage disposal clogs and ensure your festivities go off without a hitch:

1. Scrape Plates First: Before rinsing dishes, scrape solid leftovers into the trash. This step reduces the volume of waste going through the disposal, making it less likely to jam.
2. Be Selective with Foods: Not all scraps belong in the disposal. Avoid fibrous vegetables, starchy foods like potato peels, large bones, and any grease or oil. Disposing of these items in your regular trash or compost bin will help keep your drain lines clear.
3. Flush with Cold Water: Running a steady stream of cold water before, during, and after using the disposal can help wash debris through the system, preventing buildup.
4. Schedule Preventative Maintenance: Consider a professional check-up during the holiday season. Routine maintenance and inspections can identify potential issues early and ensure your disposal is ready to handle holiday cooking. Visit our homepage to learn more about our preventative maintenance options.

Enjoy a Stress-Free Holiday Kitchen

The holidays should be about spending time with loved ones, not wrestling with a clogged disposal. With a few simple precautions and proper care, you can keep your kitchen humming along smoothly throughout the festivities. If you run into a stubborn clog or suspect a more serious issue, trust The Katy Plumbing Company to get things back on track.

We’re here to help with all your plumbing needs, from holiday tune-ups to year-round maintenance. Ready to get started or need immediate assistance? Contact us today and let our experienced team help ensure your kitchen stays the heart of your holiday celebrations.