It’s the holiday season, and you’re pulling out all the stops to make guests feel welcome. Taking a closer look at your home’s key systems will help avoid inconvenient and potentially embarrassing issues, from preventing clogged toilets to addressing foul odors. As Greer homeowners start preparing for the holidays, we've put together a few tips to make getting your home ready for holiday guests a breeze.
The Homeowner’s Holiday Preparation To-Do List
Entertaining guests overnight or for extended stays over the holidays adds warmth and connection to the season, but also puts a little added stress on your home’s core systems. Take your holiday preparations further this year to avoid annoying issues and enjoy the holidays worry-free; here’s where to start.
1. Deodorize Your Home
Homeowners often become accustomed to the scents of their own spaces, but some guests may find certain odors distracting or even unpleasant. Instead of covering up your home’s natural scent, try a few natural ways to deodorize your home.
- Use your HVAC system: Replace the filter on your HVAC system and run the fan on your HVAC to increase airflow and reduce bad smells.
- Increase ventilation: Open windows and doors.
- Release odors: Take time to clean soft surfaces like carpets, rugs, and upholstery, which may trap foul odors caused by moisture, pets, or food and beverage stains.
- Address the source: Take out the trash, clean the garbage disposal, and consider cleaning and disinfecting your dishwasher.
Read More: The Best Ways To Improve Indoor Air Quality
2. Clean Out Drains
A clean sink drain helps prevent bad smells and backups. To address minor clogs caused by food debris, pour 1 cup of baking soda down the drain and wait 15-20 minutes. Then, flush with hot water, using a pitcher for better results. You can also use a plunger for tougher build-up. Consider using tools like a wire coat hanger or a drain snake for clogs. For persistent issues, schedule a professional service!
3. Prevent Clogged Toilets
Give the gift of sparing a friend or family member the embarrassment of clogging the toilet during a get-together. At Five Star Air Conditioning Heating Plumbing Electrical, we believe toilet clog prevention is a social good, especially during the busiest time of the year for most plumbing companies.
How To Prevent Toilet Clogs
During holidays, consider:
- Buying thicker-ply toilet paper, which often requires fewer squares, reduces the amount flushed
- Removing non-flushable items from the bathroom to prevent flushing paper towels, tissues, cotton balls, and non-flushable wipes
Remember that regular plumbing maintenance and sewer line cleaning can help prevent clogs by addressing issues such as tree roots and sewer line problems.
4. Prevent Circuits from Overloading
If you consider all the extra phones, computers, and other gadgets plugged in during their stay, it's easy to see how quickly your home’s circuits can be overloaded.
How To Avoid Overloaded Circuits
To prevent circuit overloads, identify which outlets and appliances share circuits. Distribute high-energy devices like TVs and microwaves evenly or block unused outlets on those circuits. Encourage guests to charge devices at outlets that have lower electricity needs by placing a table and sign nearby.
Remember, power strips protect against surges and add convenience but don’t increase circuit capacity, so avoid overloading them as well.
More Ways To Make Your Holiday Guests Feel Welcome
Greer homeowners love creating a warm, inviting atmosphere year-round, but it’s even more important during the holidays. In addition to cleaning your home and providing a tidy place to sleep, you can go the extra mile to ensure your guests are comfortable.
- Understand their needs: Ask about travel plans, dietary restrictions, or any activities they’re looking forward to during their stay.
- Give the tour: Give guests a quick tour of the home, covering basics like the Wi-Fi password, where the trash is, and where they’ll find bathroom items like towels, wash clothes, and extra rolls of toilet paper.
- Find the right temperature: If you're wondering, “What temperature should I set the house for my guests?” be sure to ask them if they feel too hot or too cold, and adjust the temperature as needed. For house parties, consider setting the thermostat a few degrees cooler, ideally between 66°F and 68°F, especially if you're cooking at the same time.
Five Star Air Conditioning Heating Plumbing Electrical Wishes You a Wonderful Holiday Season
There’s no place like Greer during the holidays, and we enjoy helping our neighbors enjoy the rich traditions this season brings. Keep your home comfortable and running smoothly with 24/7 HVAC, plumbing, and electrical services from Five Star Air Conditioning Heating Plumbing Electrical. For prompt and professional home services when you need them most, schedule an appointment today!
Contact us today or call 864-306-4898 to schedule your appointment and live more comfortably in your home.