What color insulation indicates a neutral wire?

The insulation color that indicates a neutral wire is white or gray. In electrical systems, color coding is essential for safety and clarity in wiring. The National Electrical Code (NEC) specifies that white or gray insulation is reserved for neutral conductors. This standardization helps electricians and individuals working with electrical installations to easily identify the purpose of each wire, reducing the chance of errors that could lead to dangerous situations such as electrical shock or fire.

Wires insulated in white or gray are used primarily to complete the electrical circuit by providing a return path for the current after it has passed through an electrical device or load. Understanding this color coding is crucial for safe installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of electrical systems.