What meter reading of resistance in the winding indicates a short?

A reading of zero resistance in the winding indicates a short because it signifies that there is a direct connection between the electrical conductors within the winding, bypassing the normal resistive load that the winding should create. In an operational coil, the resistance should typically be higher than zero, reflecting the winding's resistance to electrical flow. When a short occurs, it creates a path of negligible resistance, allowing current to flow without any opposition, which can lead to excessive heat and ultimately damage to the winding or other components of the system.

This understanding is crucial in HVAC troubleshooting, as a short circuit can severely affect the performance of the equipment and may require immediate attention to prevent further damage. High resistance would indicate an open circuit, variable resistance could mean an intermittent fault, and low resistance (but not zero) may represent normal functioning. Recognizing a zero resistance reading helps technicians quickly identify problematic areas in HVAC systems.