On an energized, intact circuit, you will read voltage across an OPEN switch when testing with a voltmeter. However, you probably won't read significant voltage across a CLOSED switch. Both sides of a closed switch are electrically identical (or at least very close). Therefore, there should be no movement of electrons between the leads of […]

Do you remember the first time you used a ratchet? Neither do I, but I DO remember the context in which I first used one. In order to understand my story with ratchets, I need to introduce you to my grandpa, Don, the man who I have always called “Papa.” My grandpa has done so […]

All fuel-burning appliances require oxygen to burn. They require sufficient oxygen to burn clean and safely, without soot and CO (carbon monoxide). I live and work in Florida, where most of our fuel-burning appliances are 80% efficient with open combustion. (You can learn more about the basics of combustion on a podcast with Benoit Mongeau.) […]