Use AI to prepare a complete pre-job research summary when tackling unfamiliar plumbing systems or fixtures.

When you're heading into a job with equipment you don't work on every day—like a commercial boiler system, a greywater recycling setup, or an imported fixture brand—walking in unprepared costs you time and credibility. AI can give you a quick briefing so you show up informed and confident. **Step 1:** Open ChatGPT or Claude and describe the system or fixture you'll be working on. Include the brand, model number if you have it, and what the job involves (installation, repair, inspection). **Step 2:** Ask AI to explain how the system works in simple terms, common problems it has, and what tools or parts you're likely to need. Request it in bullet points so it's easy to scan. **Step 3:** Ask for a list of questions you should ask the homeowner or property manager before starting work—this helps you gather key info upfront and avoid surprises. **Step 4:** Request a quick troubleshooting checklist specific to that system so if something goes wrong on-site, you have a logical order to check things. **Step 5:** Save or screenshot the summary on your phone so you can reference it during the job without looking lost or unprepared in front of the customer. This 3-minute prep makes you look like the expert who knows their stuff, even when it's your first time touching that particular system.

February 17, 2026