‘Brown Friday’ Plumbing Surge: Experts Warn of Holiday Drain Disaster & Offer Prevention Tips

By Charles Anderson

November 14, 2025

As families prepare their Thanksgiving feasts, a less palatable tradition looms for plumbers across the nation: ‘Brown Friday.’ This day after Thanksgiving consistently sees a dramatic spike in emergency service calls, driven by overwhelmed plumbing systems and preventable clogs. But this year, experts are proactively sharing advice to avoid the post-holiday chaos, and one Oklahoma company is leading the charge with both prevention tips and a commitment to community service.

The ‘Brown Friday’ Phenomenon: A Plumber’s Super Bowl

The term 'Brown Friday', playfully named after ‘Black Friday’, describes the surge in calls related to clogged drains, jammed garbage disposals, and overflowing toilets that plague plumbing services after the Thanksgiving feast. It’s a well-recognized industry term, and not simply hyperbole. Industry leaders like Roto-Rooter and Mr. Rooter consistently report increases of 50% or more in service requests on this day. The common culprit? A combination of increased cooking, more people using facilities, and improper disposal of food waste.

“It’s definitely our busiest day of the year,” explains a plumbing professional in Tulsa. “The sheer volume of food scraps going down the drains, combined with the extra strain on systems from guests, creates a perfect storm.”

While the increased workload is expected, it's not just about the volume of calls. “We see a lot of issues that could easily be prevented with a little bit of foresight,” says another plumbing technician familiar with the challenges of 'Brown Friday'.

Prevention is Key: Tips to Avoid a Holiday Plumbing Disaster

Experts overwhelmingly agree that proactive measures are crucial to mitigating the risk of a 'Brown Friday' plumbing emergency. The recommendations are surprisingly simple, but often overlooked in the holiday rush.

• Avoid Grease Down the Drain: This is the number one culprit. Never pour cooking oil or grease down the sink. It solidifies as it cools, creating stubborn clogs. Instead, dispose of it properly in a sealed container.
• Dispose of Food Scraps Correctly: Even seemingly harmless food particles can contribute to clogs. Avoid putting rice, pasta, potato peels, and fibrous vegetables down the garbage disposal. Compost them instead, or discard them in the trash.
• Use Drain Strainers: These inexpensive devices catch hair, food particles, and other debris before they enter the drain.
• Moderate Water Usage: Encourage guests to be mindful of water usage, especially during peak times. Space out showers and dishwasher loads to avoid overwhelming the plumbing system.
• Check for Leaks: Before and after the holiday, inspect faucets, pipes, and toilets for any signs of leaks. Addressing minor leaks promptly can prevent larger problems.

One Oklahoma Company Leads with Service & Community Commitment

While many plumbing companies offer similar advice, Quality Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing of Glenpool, Oklahoma, stands out for its holistic approach to customer service and community involvement. The locally owned and operated business not only emphasizes preventative measures but also actively supports local initiatives.

Founded in 2014, Quality Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing has quickly established a reputation for reliability, professionalism, and a genuine commitment to giving back. “We believe in serving our community, not just fixing pipes,” says Cassie Pound, co-owner of the company. “We want to be a positive force in the areas we serve.”

Their commitment extends beyond providing quality plumbing services. They routinely volunteer time and resources to organizations like the Humane Society of Tulsa and Mercy Mission II, as well as supporting local schools and teachers. The company emphasizes employee involvement in community initiatives, fostering a culture of service and civic responsibility.

“We see a lot of companies talk about community involvement,” states a local resident and satisfied customer of Quality Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing. “But this company actually walks the walk. They are genuinely invested in making our community a better place.”

Looking Ahead: Preventing Future ‘Brown Fridays’

While ‘Brown Friday’ is an annual inevitability, experts believe that increased awareness and preventative measures can significantly reduce the number of emergency calls. By following simple guidelines and supporting companies committed to both quality service and community involvement, homeowners can avoid plumbing disasters and enjoy a stress-free holiday season.

As the Thanksgiving feast approaches, remember: a little bit of foresight can go a long way in preventing a ‘Brown Friday’ plumbing emergency. And, by supporting local businesses dedicated to both quality service and community commitment, you can contribute to a more vibrant and resilient community.