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Fix a washing machine drainage fault with ChatGPT voice and photos instead of buying a new one
With a new washer already picked out online, Ewan MacLeod showed ChatGPT the error light and model label.
A prompt to try
Fill in the blanks. The prompt rewrites itself.
[Attach photo of model label and error light] This is my [appliance], model [number if visible]. Symptom: [what it's doing, which light is flashing]. Walk me through diagnosing it one step at a time, starting with the safest, cheapest checks. Wait for me to confirm each step or send a photo before moving on. Tell me to unplug it whenever that's needed, and stop me before anything that needs a technician (gas, mains wiring, sealed parts).
Fill in anything in [brackets] before you send it. Anything that spends money, sends a message or signs something should stay behind your own approval.
How it went, step by step
- 01Photograph the model label and the flashing error light, and describe the symptom out loud.
- 02Ask what to check first, and send photos to confirm you've found the right part.
- 03Follow the steps one at a time, narrating what you see, then run a test cycle.
- 04If the model isn't recognized, upload the PDF manual and ask again.

