What should a technician do first when diagnosing a compressor failure?

When diagnosing a compressor failure, the first step should be to inspect the electrical connections. This is crucial because the compressor relies heavily on electrical components to function properly. Issues such as loose or corroded connections, damaged wires, or faulty contactors can prevent the compressor from receiving the necessary voltage to operate. By verifying the integrity of these electrical connections first, a technician can rule out or confirm that electrical problems are contributing to the compressor's failure.

Once the electrical connections have been inspected, other diagnostic steps like checking the refrigerant levels, reviewing usage history, or measuring temperatures at the inlet and outlet can be performed. However, addressing electrical issues initially allows for a more efficient troubleshooting process, as many compressor failures can stem from inadequate power supply or wiring issues.