Prepare Your Plumbing for the Super Bowl Flush

Experts share tips to prevent clogs and plumbing disasters during the big game

Feb. 5, 2026 at 10:07pm

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With the Super Bowl approaching, homeowners are being advised to take steps to prepare their plumbing systems for the anticipated surge in toilet use during halftime. Experts recommend using only toilet paper, keeping a plunger handy, using a mechanical snake for tough clogs, and minimizing unnecessary water use to avoid potential disasters like flooded basements.

Why it matters

The 'Super Bowl Flush' phenomenon, where fans rush to use the restroom during halftime, can put a major strain on home plumbing systems. Proper preparation is key to avoiding clogs, backups, and other plumbing emergencies that could disrupt the big game viewing experience.

The details

Home improvement expert Dan DiClerico shares several tips to get plumbing ready for the Super Bowl. These include only allowing toilet paper to be flushed, keeping a high-quality plunger nearby, using a mechanical snake for tough clogs, treating drains with a preventative clog solution ahead of time, and minimizing unnecessary water use like running the dishwasher or washing machine during the game. DiClerico learned these lessons the hard way after dealing with a sewer line backup at his own home during a previous Super Bowl.

  • The Super Bowl is scheduled for Sunday, February 6, 2026.

The players

Dan DiClerico

Home Improvement & Outdoor Director at Good Housekeeping Institute, with over 20 years of industry experience writing about home maintenance and renovations.

Ian Thomas

Plumbing expert with Frontdoor app, which connects homeowners to professional plumbers for emergency assistance.

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What they’re saying

“That will help avoid the dreaded walk of shame for a house guest to ask for one.”

— Ian Thomas, Plumbing expert (Frontdoor app)

“Make sure toilets are flushing as normal, with no gurgling sounds, and also that nearby sinks are draining quickly.”

— Ian Thomas, Plumbing expert (Frontdoor app)

What’s next

Homeowners should check their plumbing systems for any existing issues or signs of blockages ahead of the Super Bowl, and take preventative measures like using a clog preventer treatment in their toilets.

The takeaway

Proper preparation is key to ensuring a home's plumbing can withstand the surge in usage during the Super Bowl's halftime 'Big Flush.' Following expert tips like using the right toilet paper, having a plunger on hand, and minimizing unnecessary water use can help avoid plumbing disasters and keep the big game viewing experience uninterrupted.