For appliances with a malfunction, what is a critical first step a technician should take?

When diagnosing an appliance malfunction, the critical first step a technician should take is to ensure safety by unplugging the appliance before inspecting it. This precaution is essential to prevent electrical shock or injury while working on the appliance. By disconnecting the power, the technician can safely access internal components to check for issues without the risk of electrical hazards.

While assessing if the appliance is cooling, observing customer usage habits, and checking aesthetics may provide useful information during the diagnostic process, none of these steps prioritize the safety of the technician. Ensuring the appliance is unplugged takes precedence, setting a safe environment for effective troubleshooting and repairs.