Appliance symptoms can look similar while having very different causes. Model information, exact behavior and access conditions help route the request without guessing.
Identify the appliance
- Appliance type and approximate age if known
- Brand and model number
- Serial number when relevant
- Photo of the model/serial label if accessible without moving or disassembling the appliance
Do not disassemble an appliance just to find identification information.
Describe the symptom
- Exact error code or message
- When the problem occurs
- Unusual noise, smell, heat, leak or vibration
- Whether the issue is constant or intermittent
- What changed immediately before the issue started
Send useful photos
- Full appliance in place
- Connections and surrounding clearance if safely visible
- Visible leak/damage area
- Installation opening or cabinetry for replacement/installation requests
Photos should be taken only when it is safe to do so.
Utilities & access
- Electrical outlet or disconnect access
- Water shutoff/access for applicable appliances
- Gas connection information only if relevant and safely observable
- Stairs, tight corridors, stacked installations or restricted parking/access
Safety first
- Stop using equipment that is sparking, smoking, overheating or creating a serious electrical hazard
- For a suspected gas leak, leave the area and contact the appropriate gas/emergency service
- For active flooding or water near energized equipment, prioritize electrical/water safety and emergency response as appropriate
- Do not bypass safety devices or attempt hazardous disassembly
This checklist supports service intake; it is not emergency guidance or a repair manual.