The holiday season in Vancouver is a time for celebrations, family gatherings, and home cooking. But it’s also a time when plumbing issues can sneak up on you — from clogged drains after holiday meals to dripping faucets that waste water and energy. The good news is that many minor plumbing problems can be addressed quickly at home, saving you stress and potential damage. However, knowing when to call a licensed professional like Einstein Pros Plumbing can make all the difference.
This guide will walk you through small holiday plumbing fixes you can do tonight, plus tips on when to pick up the phone for professional help.
1. Prevent Drain Clogs from Holiday Cooking
The kitchen sees heavy use during the holidays. Grease, fats, and food scraps often end up in the sink, which can lead to clogged drains.
Quick fix tonight:
- Pour a pot of boiling water down the drain to dissolve minor grease buildup.
- Use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar — sprinkle 1/2 cup of baking soda, followed by 1/2 cup of vinegar, let it fizz for 15 minutes, and flush with hot water.
Pro tip: Avoid pouring large amounts of grease or fat down your sink. Let it solidify and dispose of it in the trash instead. For more severe clogs, a plunger or drain snake may help, but persistent blockages require a licensed Vancouver plumber to prevent pipe damage.
Reference: Better Homes & Gardens — How to Prevent Frozen Pipes and Clogs.
2. Fix a Dripping Faucet
A leaking faucet may seem minor, but during winter months it can waste a surprising amount of water and increase your utility bill.
Quick fix tonight:
- Turn off the water supply under the sink.
- Remove the faucet handle and check the washer or cartridge for wear. Replacing the washer often solves the drip.
- If the faucet continues to leak after replacement, it’s time to call Einstein Pros Plumbing.
Reference: Homes & Gardens — How to Drip Faucets Properly in Winter.
3. Test Your Water Heater
December is cold in Vancouver, and a failing water heater can turn a cozy evening into an icy shock.
Quick check tonight:
- Ensure the thermostat is set to 120°F (49°C).
- Look for any leaks around the tank base.
- Flush the tank briefly to remove sediment buildup.
If you notice corrosion, persistent leaks, or your hot water supply is inconsistent, it’s safest to schedule a professional inspection immediately. Regular maintenance can extend your water heater’s life and prevent emergency replacements during the holidays.
Reference: BC Hydro — Home Renovation Rebates.
4. Clear Bathroom Drains
With extra guests, showers and sinks may back up more quickly than usual. Hair and soap buildup can lead to slow drains.
Quick fix tonight:
- Use a drain catcher to prevent further debris.
- Apply a mixture of baking soda and vinegar, followed by boiling water, to help clear minor blockages.
- A small hand auger (plumber’s snake) can also remove stubborn hair clogs.
Persistent slow drains, gurgling toilets, or water backups may indicate a more serious blockage in the main line. Contact Einstein Pros Plumbing for professional drain cleaning services.
5. Check for Frozen or Slow Exterior Faucets
Even in Vancouver’s mild winters, exposed pipes and exterior taps can freeze during cold snaps.
Quick fix tonight:
- Turn off exterior faucets at the shut-off valve inside your home.
- Drain any remaining water and cover taps with insulated covers.
Reference: Better Homes & Gardens — Winter Plumbing Tips.
If you suspect a frozen pipe inside the wall, do not attempt to thaw it with an open flame. Call Einstein Pros Plumbingimmediately to prevent bursting.
When to Call a Professional
While many minor fixes can be done tonight, some issues require a licensed plumber to avoid costly damage:
- Persistent leaks from faucets or pipes.
- Water heater failures or visible corrosion.
- Major drain backups or sewage smells.
- Frozen or burst pipes inside walls.
In Vancouver, using a licensed professional ensures your plumbing is up to code and prevents insurance issues. Einstein Pros Plumbing provides 24/7 emergency services, winter maintenance, and holiday plumbing solutions for homeowners across the city.
Conclusion
The holidays are stressful enough without unexpected plumbing issues. By addressing small fixes tonight — from dripping faucets to slow drains — you can prevent bigger problems and enjoy a warm, worry-free holiday season. Always remember: if a problem persists or feels unsafe, calling Einstein Pros Plumbing is the fastest way to protect your home, your water, and your holiday cheer.