Mindblown: a blog about philosophy.
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How to Run Electrical Wires in a Finished Wall
Planning Your Wiring Project Before cutting into any walls, take time to plan your wiring project. Here are some important steps: Determine Your Electrical Needs Decide what rooms need additional outlets or lighting and where you want switches located. Consider any large appliances or high-wattage items that will need their own dedicated circuits. This will…
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How to Replace a Standard 120-Volt Outlet Receptacle
Replacing a standard 120-volt outlet receptacle is an easy DIY project that can provide multiple benefits. Upgrading to a fresh receptacle can restore loose, faulty connections, giving you confidence in safely using your electrical outlets. Replacing receptacles is also an opportunity to upgrade to tamper-resistant or GFCI outlets for added safety. With proper precautions, this…
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9 Types of Under-Sink Shutoff Valves and How to Choose One
Having the right shutoff valve under your sink is important for controlling water flow and preventing leaks or flooding. There are various types of under-sink shutoff valves to choose from, each with their own pros and cons. This guide will outline the 9 most common types of under-sink shutoff valves and provide tips on how…
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What Is a 3-Way Switch?
A 3-way switch is a type of electrical switch that makes it possible to control a light fixture or electrical outlet from two separate locations. 3-way switches are one of the most common and useful wiring devices found in homes and buildings. How a 3-Way Switch Works A 3-way switch circuit employs two individual 3-way…
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How to Install a Kitchen Sink Drain
Installing a new kitchen sink drain is a straightforward home improvement project that can update the look and function of your kitchen. With some basic tools and plumbing parts, you can replace an old drain with a new assembly in just a few hours. Learning how to choose the right drain size and style, disconnect…
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Amperage and Wire Gauge Chart: What Size You Need
Selecting the right wire gauge for an electrical project is critical to ensure safety and proper functioning. The gauge of a wire relates to its size – the larger the gauge number, the smaller the wire. Smaller wires have higher resistance, which can lead to voltage drops and overheating. Bigger wires can handle more current…
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8 Types of Electrical Wall Switches and How to Choose
Electrical wall switches are an essential part of any home or building’s lighting system, allowing control over lighting fixtures from convenient locations. With many types of switches available, it’s important to understand the different options to choose the right switch for your needs. This guide covers the most common types of electrical wall switches and…
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GFCI Receptacle vs. GFCI Circuit Breaker
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) devices are an important part of home electrical safety. A GFCI monitors electricity flowing through a circuit and trips if there is an imbalance, indicating a ground fault. There are two main types of GFCIs – receptacles and circuit breakers. Understanding the differences between GFCI receptacles and GFCI circuit breakers…
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How to Cap Water Pipes With Push-to-Connect Fittings
Installing and capping pipes with push-to-connect fittings is a simple and convenient way to make water supply connections. These innovative fittings provide a fast, secure seal without requiring soldering, clamps, or glues. With a few basic tools and some know-how, you can cap pipes for a clean, professional finish. What Are Push-to-Connect Fittings? Push-to-connect, also…
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What Is a Short Circuit, and What Causes One?
A short circuit is an abnormal connection between two nodes of an electrical circuit that are meant to be at different voltages. This results in an excessive electric current that can cause circuit damage, overheating, fire, or explosion. Short circuits are usually caused by faults in wiring, poor insulation, excessive current, or external factors like…
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