Orlando – November 06, 2026 -- Hosting Thanksgiving dinner this year? A few prep steps before the turkey comes out can keep you from calling an emergency plumber the next morning. Yelp reports that searches for "emergency plumber" rise 46% on average the day after Thanksgiving, based on the last two years. Plumbers call that day "Brown Friday."
Frank Gay Services, a Central Florida home services company, has issued a checklist for hosts. Operations Manager Josh Geltz says most of these problems can be avoided with a little preparation and knowing what belongs down the drain.
Keep grease and scraps out of the kitchen sink
Turkey drippings, fats and oils can build up inside pipes and cause blockages. Let grease cool, collect it in a disposable container and put it in the trash.
Scrape plates into the trash before rinsing instead of leaning on the garbage disposal. Bones, potato peels and fibrous vegetables such as celery can damage the disposal or clog the line. A sink strainer catches extra debris.
When you do run the disposal, use cold water and feed it small amounts of suitable scraps. Don't overload it, and never reach inside to remove food or clear a jam.
Prepare your plumbing for extra guests
More people means more showers, flushes and hot water use. Before guests arrive, check that frequently used fixtures drain properly and that toilets flush completely without running afterward.
If guests are staying overnight, space out showers so the water heater can recover. Run the dishwasher and washing machine outside periods of heavy bathroom use.
Put a visible trash can in each bathroom so guests don't flush wipes, paper towels or personal hygiene products. Even products labeled "flushable" can cause blockages.
Fix slow drains and small leaks before the party
Heavier use can expose existing problems. Check under kitchen and bathroom sinks for moisture or leaks. If a drain keeps backing up or stays slow after basic cleaning, have a professional find the cause instead of relying on chemical drain cleaners.
Gurgling toilets, persistent sewage odors or several slow drains at once may point to a larger sewer line problem.
For bigger repairs, Frank Gay Services offers trenchless sewer line repair and drain relining. Relining creates a new lining inside an existing pipe to address cracks, leaks and corrosion, which can reduce the need to remove flooring or dig up surrounding areas. A professional inspection determines whether a pipe's condition and access make it a fit.
Check credentials before hiring a plumber
The company advises homeowners to look for licensed, certified technicians who know local plumbing codes and work for an established company. Certifications, customer reviews and Better Business Bureau accreditation can help identify qualified providers.
It also recommends choosing companies that offer price transparency, no hidden fees, no-pressure sales and a workmanship guarantee on completed repairs.