ELECTRICAL TROUBLESHOOTING AND REPAIR

The 5 Steps of Troubleshooting Approach consists of the following:

Step 1 Observation
Step 2 Define Problem Area
Step 3 Identify Possible Causes
Step 4 Determine Most Probable Cause
Step 5 Test and Repair

Preparation

You need to gather information regarding the equipment and the problem. If there are equipment history records, you should review them to see if there are any recurring problems.  You must have on-hand any documentation describing the problem. (i.e., a work order, trouble report, or even your notes taken from a discussion with a customer).

Step 1 – Observe

Through careful observation and a little bit of reasoning, most faults can be identified as to the actual component with testing. Look for visual signs of mechanical damage such as indications of impact, chafed wires, and loose components. Sense of smell, listening to the sound of the equipment operating temperature would help.

Step 2 – Define Problem Area

Apply logic and reasoning to your observations to determine the problem parts of the equipment or circuitry that are operating properly and not contributing to the cause of the malfunction.

Step 3 – Identify Possible Causes

Once the problem area(s) have been defined, it is necessary to identify all the possible causes of the malfunction. List every fault which could cause the problem

Step 4 – Determine Most Probable Cause

Once the list of possible causes has been made, it is then necessary to prioritize each item as to the probability of it being the cause of the malfunction.

Step 5 – Test and Repair

Make sure you follow all your companies’ safety precautions, rules and procedures while troubleshooting. Test instruments can be used to help narrow the problem area and identify the problem component. Once you have determined the cause of the faulty operation of the circuit you can proceed to replace the defective component. Be sure the circuit is locked out and you follow all safety procedures before disconnecting the component or any wires After replacing the component, you must test operate all features of the circuit to be sure you have replaced the proper component and that there are no other faults in the circuit.

Follow up

• Did the component fail due to age? 

• Did the environment the equipment operates in cause excessive corrosion? 

• Are there wear points that caused the wiring to short out? 

• Did it fail due to improper use? 

• Is there a design flaw that causes the same component to fail repeatedly?