Thanksgiving is one of the busiest times of the year for family gatherings, cooking, and unfortunately… plumbing emergencies. At Pro-Tec Plumbing & Air, we want your holiday to be stress-free. A major cause of holiday plumbing clogs comes from pouring fats, oils, and grease down the drain — something many homeowners don’t realize can cause serious damage.
Why Turkey Day Causes More Clogged Drains
During Thanksgiving, kitchens run nonstop. From roasting turkeys to preparing mashed potatoes and gravy, large amounts of grease and food waste get produced. When these substances get washed down the drain, they cool and solidify inside your pipes, creating thick blockages.
This buildup can lead to:
Slow-draining sinks
Backups in the kitchen
Sewer line clogs
Emergency plumbing repairs
And nobody wants that during Thanksgiving dinner.
Foods That Commonly Block Drains
To keep your plumbing system running smoothly, always throw fats, oils, and grease in the trash — not the sink. Here are the top drain-blocking items to avoid putting down your disposal or drain:
Cooking oil
Lard
Shortening
Peanut butter
Gravy
Salad dressing
Dairy
Meat trimmings
Even with a garbage disposal, these items can harden in your pipes and cause expensive repairs.
How to Avoid a Holiday Plumbing Disaster
Here are a few simple steps to keep your home protected:
1. Collect Grease in a Container
Let grease cool, then scrape it into a sealed jar or can and dispose of it in the trash.
2. Use a Sink Strainer
Catch food scraps before they slip into the drain.
3. Run Plenty of Cold Water
If you use the disposal, run cold water before and after to help flush small particles through.
4. Don’t Overload the Garbage Disposal
Feed small amounts at a time — never large portions or stringy foods like celery.
5. Call a Professional if You Notice Slow Drains
A slow drain now can turn into a full blockage later.
Pro-Tec Plumbing & Air Is Here for You This Thanksgiving
If a clogged drain or plumbing emergency threatens your holiday, don’t panic — Pro-Tec Plumbing & Air offers fast, reliable service across Southwest Florida.
Our licensed technicians handle:
Drain cleaning
Garbage disposal repair
Clog removal
Sewer line issues
Emergency plumbing services
We’re here to keep your home running smoothly so you can focus on enjoying your Thanksgiving with family and friends.
Need help? Call Pro-Tec Plumbing & Air at 239-261-1000.
Fast service. Honest pricing. Local experts you can trust.
