Artificial Intelligence and the Plumbing Industry - More Than Just a Pipe Dream

While it’s known that finding the next generation of plumbers has been challenging, are we ready for Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Plumbing? When we hear that an industry is adapting to technology, especially AI, we think that jobs are going to be replaced since by definition, it refers to machines performing tasks humans would typically be doing.

While AI promises greater efficiency, accuracy, and sustainability, it’s not likely robots will come to our door instead of the local plumber. What AI can do is attract the younger generation by providing tools that will help modernize the industry. It can also help businesses grow considerably if they implement some of the technology into their business. Statista reports that on average, businesses can expect a 6% to 10% revenue increase from adopting AI.

How Is AI Being Used Currently?

AI has helped to better diagnose and troubleshoot issues. Instead of calling a plumber to come onsite and review the situation, AI can identify problems before they happen through historical data, real time data and other system information. AI can pinpoint the exact problem—unlike the manual procedure that may involve multiple tests.

Keeping Issues at Bay.

AI helps diagnose bigger problems, such as leaks and clogs and can help to adjust when there are abnormalities detected. Repairs can be made quickly to prevent a leak turning into a major issue. AI can be used to shut off water supplies automatically—another game changer for when leaks happen, and no one is around to manually shut off the water.

Reducing Costs for Homeowners and Businesses.

AI speeds up the process which can reduce the spend for the home/business owner. Time equals money and with the average cost of a skilled plumber being $300/hour, it adds up quickly. Another added benefit would be saving money on water bills by reducing waste.

Better Customer Experience.

AI helps plumbers with customer service and experience. With chat bots to help answer questions on the spot and websites that can make recommendations on products and services, customers can get answers quickly. Plumbers have crazy schedules and are not always readily available. AI can assist with making tutorials available for DYI repairs and installations as well as the providing a way to remote in to work on a system without needing to be on site.

According to PWC, Seventy-three percent of U.S. companies use AI in some aspect of their business. In 2023 alone, the market was valued at $142.3B. With AI, today’s plumber will be armed with more information to make better, more accurate decisions in less time. Their time can be freed up to work on larger projects without needing to tend to every call that comes in. As a marketer, I can understand the importance of having tools like this at my disposal. Taking the guesswork out of what the possible result may be is life changing.