Red Seal Appliance Service Technician Practice Exam

What is the first step in troubleshooting a non-working appliance?

1. Inspect for visible damage

2. Check for power supply to the appliance

3. Reset the appliance settings

4. Review the service manual

The correct answer is: Check for power supply to the appliance

The first step in troubleshooting a non-working appliance is to check for power supply to the appliance. Ensuring that power is reaching the appliance is critical because if there is no power, it won't operate regardless of its condition or settings. This includes verifying that the appliance is properly plugged in, checking for tripped breakers, and confirming that the outlet is functioning. If the appliance is not receiving power, all other troubleshooting steps would be unnecessary at that moment, as they would not lead to resolving the issue without ensuring power is available. Once power is confirmed, the technician can then move on to inspect visible damage, reset settings, or reference the service manual as needed. Thus, checking for power supply is fundamentally the most logical and effective first step in the troubleshooting process.