"Ever tried just snapping quick pics on your phone instead?"
This is honestly a lifesaver. I used to scribble notes on the wall next to valves with a sharpie—thought I was being clever until I realized my handwriting looks like ancient hieroglyphics when I'm in panic mode. Now I snap quick photos too, and even toss in some short videos if it's a tricky setup. Beats decoding soggy masking tape any day...
Snapping photos is handy, but I wouldn't rely on it completely. Phones have a habit of dying or getting dropped into places they shouldn't (ask me how I know...). I still prefer labeling valves clearly with waterproof tags or plastic labels—something physical that won't vanish if my phone decides to take a swim. Ever had your phone fail right when you needed those pics most? Curious if anyone else keeps a physical backup just in case.
"Phones have a habit of dying or getting dropped into places they shouldn't (ask me how I know...)."
I can relate to this all too well. Last year, during a heavy rainstorm, my phone slipped right out of my pocket and landed in a puddle while I was checking the main shut-off valve outside. Lost all my plumbing reference photos instantly. Since then, I've switched to labeling everything clearly with weather-resistant tags. It's reassuring to have something physical and reliable—especially when you're dealing with water and electronics simultaneously.
I've been there too, unfortunately. Had a similar incident while working under a sink—phone slipped out of my shirt pocket and landed straight into a bucket of drain water. Learned my lesson the hard way. Now I keep a laminated cheat sheet taped inside my toolbox with key plumbing specs and valve locations for my regular buildings. It's old-school, but it's saved me more than once when tech failed or wasn't handy.
I'm curious though, has anyone tried those rugged waterproof cases or pouches designed specifically for tradespeople? I've seen them around but always wondered if they're actually practical or just bulky and annoying to use in tight spaces...
Dropped my phone into a half-full paint tray once—trust me, drain water sounds like a luxury spa treatment by comparison. I've tried one of those rugged waterproof cases before. Honestly, they're pretty solid protection-wise, but they can feel bulky when you're squeezed into tight spots under cabinets or sinks. I ended up just using it on outdoor jobs or messy demo days. Your laminated cheat sheet idea sounds genius though...might have to borrow that one!
