Plumbing and Heating Tips for the Big Game

The Big Game is coming and you’re getting ready to host your big watch party. Chicken wings? Check. Ripe but not overripe avocados? Check. Making sure that Monday You is as happy as Sunday You? Follow these easy plumbing and heating tips to keep your party from being sacked.

• Ice the kicker all you want, but take care of your pipes. The Boston weather forecast is calling for continued cold weather, so take the usual precautions against pipes freezing, including allowing cold water to drip from any faucets served by pipes on an exterior wall.
• Boston runs on defense, so double-check that you know where the main water shut-off valve is. You know, just in case it comes up in conversation at halftime.
• Overnight guests do not want a Gatorade bath. Turn up your water heater slightly (but never higher than 120 degrees) to handle the extra demand.
• Your garbage disposal is the MVP of meal prep, so don’t overload it! In your haste to chop onions and tomatoes for a homemade salsa, make sure you’re running the disposal frequently enough and using enough water to keep it running smoothly.
• Intercept clogs before they get to the drain. Sometimes “helpful” guests may inadvertently put things where they don’t belong. Make sure no one throws rice or grease down your kitchen sink.
• Avoid having to run a plunge play. Prep for commercial breaks by stocking up on toilet paper ahead of time. Use anything else and you’ll risk a nasty clog.

Preparing to avoid plumbing emergencies will help your party go smoothly so you can cheer your favorite team (ahem, the Patriots) on to victory!