Holiday Hosting? How to Prepare Your Septic System for Extra Guests

The holidays are just around the corner, and if you’re hosting family and friends, your home is bound to see more activity than usual. While it’s exciting to gather with loved ones, the extra guests can put a strain on your septic system. From increased water usage to potential clogs, it’s essential to make sure your septic system is ready for the holiday rush.

Here are a few steps you can take to prepare your septic system and avoid any unwanted surprises while hosting this holiday season.

1. Schedule a Pre-Holiday Septic Pumping

One of the best ways to ensure your system can handle the holiday load is to schedule a septic tank pumping before your guests arrive. Regular pumping prevents overflow and keeps your system running smoothly by removing excess waste. If it’s been a while since your last pump, now’s the time to take care of it. The last thing you want is an overflowing tank while you’re carving turkey!

2. Spread Out Water Usage

With extra showers, dishwashing, and laundry, your household water usage will skyrocket during the holidays. If possible, spread out high-water activities to avoid overwhelming your septic system. For example, try to stagger showers and laundry loads throughout the day rather than doing them all at once. This gives your system time to process the water and prevents backups.

3. Be Mindful of What Goes Down the Drain

Holiday cooking can create all sorts of waste, but not all of it belongs in your drains. Fats, oils, and greases from holiday feasts are some of the biggest culprits when it comes to clogging septic systems. These materials solidify in your pipes and tank, leading to blockages. Instead of pouring them down the drain, dispose of them in the trash. Also, remind guests to only flush toilet paper—no wipes, paper towels, or other non-flushable items!

4. Consider a Septic Additive (If Necessary)

While regular maintenance is key, certain septic additives can help give your system an extra boost. These bacteria-based additives promote the breakdown of solids in the tank, helping your system work more efficiently when it’s under extra stress. However, always consult with a septic professional to see if an additive is right for your system.

5. Check for Warning Signs Before Guests Arrive

Before your guests start arriving, take a moment to inspect your septic system for any warning signs. Slow drains, gurgling pipes, and foul odors are red flags that your system might be under stress. If you notice any of these issues, contact a professional immediately. Addressing problems early can prevent them from turning into full-blown disasters during your holiday celebrations.

6. Inform Guests About Septic-Friendly Practices

If your guests aren’t familiar with septic systems, a little education goes a long way. Let them know that your home is on a septic system and encourage septic-friendly habits, such as limiting water usage and being cautious about what they flush. You can even post a small sign in the bathroom to remind guests to avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper.

7. Know When to Call a Professional

Even with the best preparation, unexpected issues can arise. If you notice any signs of septic trouble or suspect that your system is struggling to keep up with the holiday demand, don’t hesitate to call a septic professional. A quick response can save your holiday festivities from being interrupted by a messy and costly septic problem.

Don’t Let Septic Issues Spoil Your Holiday Fun

Holiday hosting should be about making memories with family and friends, not dealing with septic disasters. By taking a few preventive measures, you can ensure your septic system is ready to handle the extra load and keep your home running smoothly throughout the holidays.

Contact Us:

If you need help preparing your septic system for holiday hosting, reach out to One Way Septic today. We are a family owned and operated septic tank and sewer service located in Acworth, GA. We serve a majority of the state of Georgia from Atlanta northward. You may reach us by phone at 404-775-1164, by email at [email protected], or visit our website and request service.