Overview
- Searches for “emergency plumber” jumped 27% nationwide on the day after Thanksgiving last year, underscoring the expected spike in demand.
- Sacramento plumbers are clearing schedules and anticipating up to triple the usual calls, with San Diego, San Jose and San Francisco also flagged for high activity.
- Fats, oils and grease, along with eggshells, potato peels, coffee grounds and fibrous vegetables, are cited as the leading causes of post‑holiday drain failures.
- Tradespeople stress that disposals handle only small plate scraps, advising families to scrape plates, run cold water, feed small amounts and consider drain enzymes.
- Experts warn that severe clogs can back up municipal systems—especially in older galvanized or cast‑iron pipes—and that holiday emergency service typically costs more.