Which color is typically used for the neutral conductor in a 120/240 V system?

Which color is typically used for the neutral conductor in a 120/240 V system?

• A. White.
• B. Blue.
• C. Black.
• D. Green.

Answer: (A)

Colors identify conductor roles. In a typical 120/240 V circuit, the two hot conductors are usually black and red, while the conductor that completes the return path to the source—the neutral—is colored white (gray is allowed in some cases). This standard coloring helps electricians quickly recognize the neutral and avoid dangerous mistakes. The grounding conductor is green or bare. Blue isn’t used for neutral in standard 120/240 V wiring; it’s commonly used for a second hot or a traveler in some circuits. Black is a hot conductor, and green is reserved for grounding. Therefore, white is the typical color for the neutral.

Colors identify conductor roles. In a typical 120/240 V circuit, the two hot conductors are usually black and red, while the conductor that completes the return path to the source—the neutral—is colored white (gray is allowed in some cases). This standard coloring helps electricians quickly recognize the neutral and avoid dangerous mistakes. The grounding conductor is green or bare.

Blue isn’t used for neutral in standard 120/240 V wiring; it’s commonly used for a second hot or a traveler in some circuits. Black is a hot conductor, and green is reserved for grounding. Therefore, white is the typical color for the neutral.