🔍 Why place paper and an upside-down glass in the sink before vacation?
It’s a low-tech leak detection method that can alert you (or your plumber) to possible plumbing issues that occurred during your absence.
✅ How it works:
- You place a dry sheet of paper flat inside your empty sink.
- You put a clean glass upside down directly on top of the paper.
- You leave it that way while you’re gone.
🔧 What it’s meant to do:
- If there’s no leak, everything will look the same when you return.
- But if there’s a slow drip, humidity, or a water leak, the paper will become damp, wrinkle, or tear — even if it’s just a few drops.
- If someone enters the house or uses the sink, they might disturb the setup — so it’s also a subtle tampering detector.
🧠 Why is this useful?
- Detect early leaks: Even a minor leak over several days can cause mold, water damage, or high utility bills.
- Monitor unknown plumbing problems: It’s especially helpful in older homes or places with unpredictable pipes.
- Peace of mind: It’s a free, simple way to know if you returned to a house with a hidden problem.
⚠️ Pro Tip:
If you’re going on a long vacation, turn off the main water valve and use this paper-glass trick to double-check if something is wrong with residual water lines or appliances that store water (like dishwashers or water filters).