What is the FIRST step to troubleshoot an overheating ceiling-mounted projector?

The first step to troubleshoot an overheating ceiling-mounted projector involves checking the air filters to ensure they are free of dust. This is because air filters play a critical role in maintaining proper airflow through the projector, which is essential for cooling. Dust accumulation in the filters can severely impede airflow, causing the internal components of the projector to overheat.

By ensuring that the filters are clean, you can allow for adequate ventilation, which often resolves overheating issues without needing to investigate more complex problems. Addressing airflow concerns is a primary and easily achievable step that can often prevent further damage or the need for more extensive repairs. Other actions, such as adjusting brightness settings or checking lamp wattage, may not directly address the immediate cooling problem related to airflow, making them less effective as initial troubleshooting steps.