AI To The Rescue... Of My Laundry
My AI subscription paid for itself today.
The other day, our 8 year old washing machine began throwing error codes and flooding the floor. Of course, the nightmare scenario of buying a new washing machine flashed through my mind, as did the specter of hiring a repairman to come fix it. A quick Google search of the error code only brought up the manual, which had some basic troubleshooting steps, none of which were helpful. Neither was Google, nor YouTube. In the process of reaching for my phone to call a repairman, it occurred to me: Could AI do what Google and YouTube could not?
As you've probably surmised by now, it was a successful endeavor. I used Claude (Opus 4.8, because I am model-bougie) for the task, and Claude wasted no time asking clarifying questions, having me check things, and coming to a pretty quick conclusion: The tub was overflowing because the water level sensor was likely defective. Claude also knew enough about me to know that I am a technical type, and it suggested using a multimeter in Hz (frequency) mode to test the sensor, as that is how it signals the water level. Sure enough, it failed the test, and so I ordered a replacement part. After installing it, I tested it the same way and got the Claude-specified values. And, of course, that solved the problem.
The most compelling part of the whole experience to me wasn't that the job got done, but how much easier the job was with Claude versus Googling or watching a bunch of YouTube videos and guessing. It was pretty much exactly like texting a veteran repairman, with a sharp diagnosis based on what it determined is a common failure for this model washer. It narrowed its questions based on my responses and nailed it in roughly 20 minutes. My total repair cost? A $14 part. Not a few hundred dollars for a repairman and a 50% or more upcharge on the part to boot.
Lots of people can't fathom why AI is of any value if you're not a coder. I can give you lots of reasons, but this is one even I was not expecting - although in retrospect, perhaps I should have. At any rate, the laundry is going again, the wife is happy, and I justified the AI subscription price for this month. That's a win in my book!