How can you identify a hot wire?

Identifying a hot wire is crucial for safe electrical work, as it carries the voltage and current that power a circuit. In many wiring systems, especially in the United States, the color coding is a reliable guideline. A hot wire is typically black or red. The black wire is commonly used as the primary hot wire, while red can serve as a secondary hot wire in a circuit that requires it, such as in three-way switch configurations.

The other choices reflect common wire colors that serve different purposes. For instance, blue or green wires are usually designated for specific functions like grounding or for switch legs, making them unsuitable for identifying hot wires. Additionally, wires that are white or gray are typically neutral wires, which carry current away from a device back to the electrical panel, rather than towards a device requiring power. Understanding these color codes helps ensure that electrical installations are performed safely and in accordance with electrical codes.