What is a potential risk of not monitoring the APU's temperature?

Monitoring the APU's temperature is crucial because overheating can lead to severe damage to the system. The Auxiliary Power Unit plays an essential role in providing electrical power and pneumatic pressure for starting the main engines and operating onboard systems when the aircraft is on the ground. If the APU's temperature is not kept within specified limits, it risks structural damage, degradation of performance, and even complete failure of the unit. This may force the aircraft to rely on less reliable power sources or could lead to operational delays due to APU inoperability.

The risk of overheating could manifest in various ways, such as component failure or fire, which could jeopardize the safety of the aircraft and its crew. Regular monitoring ensures that any anomalies can be addressed proactively, maintaining operational integrity and safety.