Good point about the plastic pipes... magnets won't help there. I usually clip a small LED worklight onto the cabinet door hinge—keeps it steady and out of the way. Plus, no risk of knocking it into water or damp spots.
The hinge trick's clever, but honestly, I've knocked my share of lights off cabinet doors too—maybe I'm just clumsy, lol. I prefer those cheap headlamps you can grab at any hardware store. Sure, you look like you're spelunking under the sink, but hey, hands-free and zero chance of dunking it in mystery puddles. Plus, bonus points for scaring family members when you pop up unexpectedly from under the counter...
"Sure, you look like you're spelunking under the sink, but hey, hands-free and zero chance of dunking it in mystery puddles."
Haha, true enough—I've had my share of mystery puddles too. Headlamps are definitely safer than balancing flashlights or phones precariously on pipes. Learned that lesson after nearly frying my phone once... never again.
Speaking of safety though, anyone else keep a small moisture alarm under sinks or near water heaters? Saved me from a couple of nasty leaks turning into full-blown floods. Cheap insurance and peace of mind.
Moisture alarms are great, but honestly, I've found a few other simple things just as helpful:
- Keep a cheap plastic tray or shallow pan under sinks and water heaters. Easier to spot leaks early and keeps cabinets from getting ruined.
- Label shut-off valves clearly with bright tape or tags—saves precious minutes when something goes wrong.
- Snap quick photos of plumbing setups before repairs. Handy reference if you forget how things were connected.
Little prep goes a long way... learned that the hard way myself.
"Snap quick photos of plumbing setups before repairs. Handy reference if you forget how things were connected."
This is gold advice right here. Can't tell you how many times I've confidently taken something apart, thinking "I'll remember this," only to stare blankly at a pile of parts an hour later. Another trick: keep a folder on your phone labeled "plumbing disasters"—makes it easier to find those pics when you're knee-deep in confusion. Trust me, your future self will thank you... or at least curse less loudly.
