Christmas in Texas may look different depending on where you are, but one thing stays the same, when family and friends come to stay, your home’s heating and plumbing work overtime. Whether you’re hosting guests in Lubbock, where winter temperatures can drop quickly, or San Antonio, where holiday gatherings still put extra strain on your systems, preparation is key.
A few simple checks before Christmas can help you avoid unexpected breakdowns, cold nights, or plumbing problems when you least want them.
Do You Check Your Heating System Before the Cold Sets In?
Even in Texas, winter cold snaps can arrive suddenly, especially in West Texas.
- Turn your heating on early and make sure it’s warming your home evenly.
- Check for cold spots in rooms or uneven airflow.
- Listen for unusual noises from your furnace or heat pump.
- Test your thermostat and replace batteries if needed.
In cities like Lubbock, heating systems often work harder and longer, making early inspections especially important. A professional tune-up can help catch issues before they become emergencies.
Make Sure Your Home Can Handle Extra Hot Water Use
Christmas guests mean more showers, more handwashing, and more dishes.
- Check that your water heats up quickly and stays consistent.
- Watch for fluctuating temperatures or low pressure.
- If you have a water heater, make sure it’s keeping up with demand.
Hot water issues often show up when a system is under strain, exactly what happens during the holidays.
Inspect Bathrooms and Toilets
Bathrooms are one of the most-used areas of the home when hosting guests.
- Make sure toilets flush properly and refill without running.
- Fix dripping taps or small leaks before they worsen.
- Clear slow drains to avoid holiday blockages.
In older homes, common in parts of San Antonio, small plumbing problems can escalate quickly if ignored.
Don’t Forget the Kitchen Plumbing
The kitchen becomes the heart of the home at Christmas and the most common place for plumbing trouble.
- Avoid putting grease, oils, or food waste down the sink.
- Check the sink, garbage disposal, and dishwasher for slow drainage.
- Ensure your shut-off valve is easy to access in case of an emergency.
A blocked kitchen sink on Christmas Day is one problem no host wants to deal with.
Protect Pipes From Cold Weather
While freezing temperatures are more common in Lubbock, even San Antonio can experience sudden cold spells.
- Insulate exposed pipes in garages, outdoor walls, or utility rooms.
- Seal drafts near pipework.
- If you’re leaving home for the holidays, keep the heating set to a low, steady temperature.
Frozen pipes can burst and cause costly damage often when homes are empty.
Know Who to Call If Something Goes Wrong
Even with the best preparation, emergencies can still happen during the holidays.
Having a trusted local heating and plumbing company serving Lubbock and San Antonio, Texas, gives you peace of mind if something goes wrong at the last minute. Acting quickly can often prevent further damage and restore comfort fast.
Enjoy a Warm, Stress-Free Texas Christmas
Preparing your heating and plumbing systems before Christmas guests arrive helps ensure your home stays warm, comfortable, and worry-free—no matter which part of Texas you’re celebrating in.
If you need a pre-Christmas heating or plumbing check, or if you find yourself facing a last-minute issue, our local team proudly serves Lubbock and San Antonio, offering reliable, professional support when you need it most.