In residential wiring, what is the standard color code for a neutral wire?

In residential wiring, the standard color code for a neutral wire is white. This is an important aspect of electrical systems because color coding helps ensure safety and consistency in installations. Knowing that white is associated with the neutral wire allows electricians and anyone working with electrical systems to correctly identify and connect wires without confusion, which helps prevent potential hazards like incorrect wiring and electrical shock.

In the context of residential circuits, the neutral wire serves as the return path for current, completing the circuit by carrying electricity back to the source. This is distinct from other colors: black is typically used for hot wires, red may indicate a secondary hot wire, often in three-phase systems or switch legs, and green is reserved for grounding wires. Understanding these designations is essential for anyone involved in electrical work to ensure that installations conform to safety standards and codes, such as those set forth in the National Electrical Code and relevant local regulations.