by 
The Curious Bag
-
Electrical wires are seldom labeled but electricians must know which type of conductors they are: hot, neutral, or ground. The National Electrical Code (NEC) specifies colors for wire insulation and there are conventions to help identify them.
White or Gray
White or gray wires or those with three lengthwise white stripes are always neutral conductors. They are connected to earth ground at the electrical panel so their voltage is always close to ground.
Green or Uninsulated
Wires that are green or green with yellow stripes, and bare wires without insulation are all used for grounding equipment or appliances. They carry current only when there is a circuit fault.
Black or Red
For non-grounded (hot) conductors any color except gray, white, or green can be used. The convention is to use black, or black and red if two different colors are needed.
Other Colors
The NEC does not specify colors for any conductor except neutral and ground. For non-grounded (hot) conductors, any other color can be used.
Black Markings
A white or gray wire that is marked at each end with black tape or paint can be used for a hot connection.
Source:
"National Electrical Code"; National Fire Protection Association; 2004
RELATED QUESTIONS
Copyright 2023, Wired Ivy, LLC