Which color wire is typically used for neutral in electrical installations?

The color typically used for neutral wire in electrical installations is white. This designation is standardized in the National Electrical Code (NEC) in the United States. The purpose of this color coding is to provide a clear identification for various electrical conductors, ensuring safety and consistency across electrical systems.

In a typical wiring setup, the neutral wire serves as a return path for current in an electrical circuit, completing the circuit back to the source. It's crucial for safety that the neutral wire is correctly identified and used because it is essential for balancing the electrical load and preventing shock hazards.

Each of the other colors mentioned has specific purposes in electrical systems: black is commonly used for hot wires, green is typically reserved for grounding, and red is often used for a secondary hot wire in 220-volt applications. Understanding these conventions is important for anyone working with electrical installations, as it aids in troubleshooting and ensures compliance with safety standards.