Tips To Prepare Your Home for the Best 4th of July

Tips To Prepare Your Home for the Best 4th of July Shindig On the Block

Few things are quite as magical or as fun as a July 4th cookout with friends and family. For many, it’s even the highlight of the summer. And what better way to celebrate freedom and independence than grilling up some delicious food, playing in the backyard, and spending quality time with loved ones?

Of course, part of hosting the best party of the summer is making sure everyone stays safe, comfortable, and in high spirits - and there’s no better place to start than the home’s plumbing system. A plumbing mishap in the middle of the big day can be, at best, an inconvenient and embarrassing mess or, at worst, a dangerous nightmare. So here are a few pro tips to ensure that everything goes smoothly this Independence Day.

Put in a New Garbage Disposal

The first way to prepare for the big day is to give the kitchen sink an upgrade in the form of garbage disposal. With so much food, plenty will find its way down the drain. Without a garbage disposal, larger chunks of food can escape down the drain and become lodged in the pipe, causing the sink to back up. 

That’s not a fun thing to deal with in the middle of a party. A garbage disposal crushes food into tiny manageable bits that can flow freely down the drain, so the party can continue uninterrupted. And this is one investment that will keep on giving for years to come.

Have All Gas Lines and Gas Appliances Checked for Safety

Next on the list is to have a professional inspect the home’s natural gas plumbing and appliances. Gas leaks are hazardous - they can cause fatal poisoning, fires, or devastating explosions - so this one is a no-brainer for the safety and well-being of every guest. 

Gas leaks can occur due to pipe corrosion, loose or damaged connections, or malfunctioning gas appliances. Having a certified gas line plumber perform a thorough inspection is the best way to ensure that everything is functioning properly and up to the latest safety standards. A faulty or poorly ventilated burner or pilot light can also produce carbon monoxide emissions, so it’s a good idea to make sure the home’s CO detector is working as well.

Make Sure the Bathroom Is in Great Shape for the Guests

The third way to get ready for the July 4th bash is to make sure the plumbing in the guest bathroom is problem-free. If the toilet is wobbly, cracked, or has trouble flushing, it may need to be replaced. Smelly sink, tub, or shower drains may need professional cleaning - but a little baking soda, vinegar, and boiling water might do the trick in a pinch. 

A faucet crusted with mineral deposits may need to be taken apart and cleaned with a limescale and calcium remover, particularly if it sprays wildly. The same goes for the showerhead if guests use the shower to rinse off after jumping in the pool or playing in the yard. Or it may be time to simply replace them with new water-saving models that will impress every visitor!

About Apex Pros Plumbing, Electric, Heating and Air

Apex Pros Plumbing, Electric, Heating and Air has been proudly serving the Columbus, OH community for years. They have earned numerous 5-star reviews and satisfied customers with their quality workmanship, affordable prices, and superior service. They provide competitive up-front pricing and tailored solutions. Call now for plumbing service!