In electrical terms, what does a high impedance indicate?

A high impedance indicates a high opposition to current flow in an electrical circuit. Impedance is a measure that combines resistance with reactance, accounting for both the opposition to direct current (DC) and the changing currents typical in alternating current (AC) systems. When impedance is high, it means that the circuit restricts the flow of electrical current more than a circuit with lower impedance.

This characteristic is particularly important in applications like signal transmission, where high impedance can limit the current drawn from a source, thus preserving signal quality and reducing potential distortion.

In contrast, low impedance implies that the circuit readily allows current to flow, which is the opposite of high impedance. Understanding the concept of impedance is essential for HVAC technicians, especially when dealing with electrical components, as it affects everything from the efficiency of electrical devices to the overall safety and functionality of HVAC systems.