Prepping Your Home for the Holidays: The HVAC & Plumbing Checklist
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Are you preparing your home for the holidays? There’s not much time left—Santa’s making his list and checking it twice, and you should, too! A comprehensive HVAC checklist and thorough plumbing prep routine will keep your home cozy, efficient, and guest-ready all season long.
Whether you’re hosting family dinners, lighting candles, or unwrapping gifts by the fire, this holiday prep guide will show you how to prep your home for holiday guests—so you can relax instead of worrying about surprise furnace repairs or clogged drains.
Your Holiday HVAC & Plumbing Maintenance Checklist
1. Test Your Thermostat and Heating System
Kick off your HVAC holiday prep by making sure your thermostat works properly. Adjust the temperature, listen for odd noises, and confirm your furnace cycles on and off smoothly.
If it struggles, schedule a professional HVAC maintenance check to ensure reliable warmth before guests arrive.
2. Change Air Filters and Inspect Ductwork
A fresh air filter is essential for healthy indoor air and system efficiency. Dusty vents or leaky ducts can make rooms feel unevenly heated—never ideal during the holidays.
Need help sealing leaks or replacing filters? Book a seasonal HVAC check today.
3. Check the Outdoor HVAC Unit
Don’t forget the outside! Clear away leaves, snow, or debris around your outdoor unit, ensuring a clearance of at least two feet. This small step can improve efficiency and extend system life.
If your system appears to be frozen or blocked, schedule a quick HVAC maintenance check.
Need Help Fast? Book an HVAC appointment.
Bathroom and Plumbing Prep for Holiday Guests
4. Test Toilets and Faucets
Expecting a full house? Make sure your toilets flush smoothly, and your sinks drain properly. Run each fixture before your company arrives to avoid awkward surprises.
If something’s off, our plumbing pros can help.
5. Inspect Drains and Clear Clogs
With all that cooking and cleaning, your drains take a beating. Pour a mix of baking soda and vinegar into slow drains—or schedule a plumbing inspection.
6. Check Your Hot Water Heater
Hot showers are non-negotiable for guests. Ensure your water heater is running efficiently and set to a temperature between 120°F and 140°F for optimal comfort and energy savings.
If you notice rust, leaks, or noises, book a quick plumbing service before the holiday rush.
Plumbing problem? Schedule a plumbing inspection.
Outdoor and Basement Holiday Prep
7. Shut Off Outdoor Valves
Drain and store hoses, then shut off and drain outdoor faucets. Inspect any exposed pipes for leaks as well. To go beyond the basics, winterize outdoor plumbing by wrapping pipes with insulation or heat tape to prevent freezing.
FAQ Quick Fixes:
- Does wrapping pipes with towels work? Towels may provide temporary relief, but proper insulation sleeves are most effective.
- At what temperature do pipes freeze under a house? Around 20°F or below, depending on insulation and airflow.
8. Clear Gutters and Inspect Downspouts
Clogged gutters may cause roof damage and icy hazards. Remove leaves and debris, then confirm that downspouts direct water away from your foundation.
Smart Energy, Safety, and Comfort Tips
9. Keep Vents and Doors Open
Does closing vents hurt the furnace in winter? Yes—closing vents increases air pressure and can strain your system. Keep vents and doors open (even if the room isn’t used much) for even airflow throughout your home.
10. Check Carbon Monoxide Detector
Before firing up your furnace for the season, ensure your carbon monoxide detector is functioning correctly. Replace old batteries, test the alarm, and confirm it hasn’t expired. A functioning detector is one of the simplest ways to keep your home safe during holiday gatherings.
Wrap-Up: Ready to Prep Your Home for the Holidays?
Preparing your home for the holidays doesn’t have to be stressful. With this simple HVAC checklist and plumbing guide, you’ll know exactly how to prep your home for holiday guests—from comfort to safety.
For help with HVAC maintenance checks, plumbing repairs, or holiday prep services, trust Brothers to keep your home running smoothly all season long.
Call 615-622-6779 or book online today to schedule your pre-holiday service—it’s all backed by our Exceptional Service Guarantee.