Mindblown: a blog about philosophy.
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Basics of Water Heater Expansion Tanks
A water heater expansion tank is an important component of any closed plumbing system that uses a water heater. The expansion tank helps maintain proper water pressure by absorbing excess thermal expansion that occurs when water is heated inside the water heater. Having a properly sized and installed expansion tank is critical to the safety…
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Electrical Circuit Requirements for Kitchens
When designing and installing the electrical system for a kitchen, there are specific circuit requirements that must be followed to ensure safety and functionality. Proper planning and adherence to electrical codes will provide enough power to run all necessary kitchen appliances and lighting, while reducing the risk of tripping breakers or overloading circuits. In this…
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How to Use Plumber’s Tape
Plumber’s tape, also known as thread seal tape or PTFE tape, is an essential tool for anyone doing plumbing work. Properly applying plumber’s tape creates a tighter seal between threaded pipe connections to prevent leaks. Using plumber’s tape may seem straightforward, but there are some important steps to follow and common mistakes to avoid for…
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How to Install a Self-Piercing Saddle Valve
Installing a self-piercing saddle valve is a handy way to tap into existing water lines to add new plumbing fixtures without having to shut off the main water supply or cut into the pipe. With some basic tools and supplies, you can install a saddle valve in just a few steps. What is a Self-Piercing…
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What Is a Main Circuit Breaker and How Does It Work?
A main circuit breaker is the primary overcurrent protection device found in an electrical service panel. Its purpose is to protect the home’s electrical wiring from damage due to overloads or short circuits. Understanding what a main circuit breaker is and how it works is important for any homeowner. What is a Main Circuit Breaker?…
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How to Find Your Home’s Main Water Shut Off Valve
Knowing how to locate and use your home’s main water shut off valve is an important skill for any homeowner. Having the ability to quickly shut off the water in an emergency can prevent costly damage from burst pipes, leaks, and other water-related issues. This guide will walk you through the basics of finding and…
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National Electrical Code Requirements for Bathrooms
Installing electrical wiring and equipment in bathrooms requires careful planning and execution to ensure safety. The National Electrical Code (NEC) contains specific guidelines for electrical installations in bathrooms that are designed to prevent electric shock and electrocution hazards. Following NEC bathroom electrical requirements is critical for passing inspection and creating a code-compliant, safe bathroom environment.…
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5 Common Types of Sewer Pipes
Sewer pipes are an integral part of any city’s infrastructure, carrying wastewater away from homes and businesses. There are several common types of pipes used in sewer systems, each with their own advantages and best uses. When planning a sewer system, engineers must consider the climate, environment, flow rate, and longevity to select the optimal…
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How to Fix an Upside-Down Outlet
Having an upside-down outlet can be annoying and look unsightly. More importantly, it can pose a safety hazard if devices plugged into the outlet become loose and fall out. Fortunately, fixing an upside-down outlet is usually a quick and easy job that most homeowners can tackle themselves. What Causes an Upside-Down Outlet? There are a…
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How to Test Your Home’s Water Pressure
Having adequate water pressure in your home is important for ensuring that your plumbing fixtures and appliances function properly. Low water pressure can result in frustratingly weak streams of water from faucets and showerheads. On the other hand, high water pressure can damage pipes and cause leaks. Testing your water pressure is easy to do…
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