Thanksgiving in Southern California is easier to enjoy than in other parts of the country because of the great weather. But, even though it’s nice outside, you will likely have you stove at full heat, your oven on all day, numerous guests not typically in your home, and much more going on than you can truly deal with (we all keep our game faces on but it’s tough!).
This means that you might be running your air conditioning more, running fans, using your appliances all day, having guests shower and clean up, etc. Your entire home is being used heavily. That is why we have prepared some useful tips to keep your Thanksgiving celebration on track and plumbing and hvac problem free!
1. Beware of the Drain’s Arch-Nemesis: Fats, Oils, and Gravy Thanksgiving is synonymous with indulgent foods. But while your taste buds may rejoice, your plumbing might not share the sentiment. Fats, oils, and especially gravy can solidify once they cool down, leading to stubborn clogs that could put a damper on your holiday spirit.
🔧 Solution: Instead of pouring them down the sink, collect these in a separate container and dispose of them in the trash. If you’re eco-conscious, consider looking into local recycling programs that turn cooking fats into biofuel.
2. Your HVAC System’s Thanksgiving Workout Your oven’s working overtime, there’s a turkey roasting for hours, and your home is buzzing with more people than usual. All this extra warmth can make your living spaces feel stuffy and uncomfortably hot, especially in smaller homes or apartments.
🔧 Solution: Before your guests arrive, give your HVAC system a quick check. Ensure vents are unblocked and consider changing the filters if they’re due for a replacement. With more people and cooking, your home will naturally be warmer, so adjust your thermostat accordingly. You might even find you don’t need to turn your heating on at all!
3. Balancing the Heat With the kitchen in full swing and more guests in your home, the temperature can rise quickly. No one wants to be sweating while they’re enjoying their pumpkin pie!
🔧 Solution: Keep a close eye on your home’s temperature. If it starts feeling too warm, turn down the thermostat a few degrees. Remember, it’s easier to cool a space down than to warm it up. And if things get too stuffy, don’t be shy about cracking a window for a few minutes. A little fresh air can make a big difference.
