Tips to avoid creating havoc in your plumbing this holiday

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- Getting ready for the Thanksgiving feast often includes a big bird, and a reminder that this holiday can prove challenging for your kitchen sink.

Lisa Helberg remembers some rules while getting ready for Thanksgiving. "My mother drilled in me. No potato peelings, run the water. I'm being pretty faithful to making sure the sink isn't clogged."

If you don't want a big bill come Friday, take it from the experts at Abacus Plumbing - there are some simple things you can do.

First, be super smart about what you throw down your sink and garbage disposal. Big amounts of anything can clog them up. So, just toss it in the trash.

Make sure to run the water for 45 seconds after shutting after the disposal.

Try a de-greaser like Dawn soap, or even run ice through your disposal. It helps flush the line.

Thomas Moreno with Abacus Plumbing said, "Yesterday, I went to a customer's home that was cooking a smaller turkey. The family didn't like it, so she cut it in half and she stuck it down the garbage disposal. Stopped when she saw smoke coming out."

Secondly, all the plumbing in your house might be under added pressure, so address any problem spots.

Make sure you flush your water heater. After all, you don't want any hiccups or unexpected bills come turkey day.