house wiring colors usa - IOT Wiring Diagram

House wiring colors in the USA are an important consideration for any homeowner planning out a wiring project. Wiring has been around since the invention of electricity and, while most systems using alternating current employ black, white, and green wires, some jurisdictions have different codes in place that may require you to use other colored wires. So, before starting a project, it’s vital to familiarize yourself with the wiring codes in your area.

Most residential house wiring in the United States uses three-wire cables with black, white and green insulation, which is referred to as Romex cable. This type of wiring is used for lights and receptacles in most areas. The black wire is hot, white is neutral, and green is ground. If your wiring is older, you may find the pink or the red wire functioning as the hot or switched leg wire. You can also run four-wire cables from receptacles to split circuits. These will include a red, a black, a white, and a green wire.

When it comes to installing wiring, you’ll want to take extra care to be sure the correct color wires are used in order to reduce the risk of electric shock. Using the wrong colored wires could cause serious damage. Before beginning any wiring project, consult both local building and electrical codes and experienced professionals. Doing so will help ensure the safety of those who inhabit your house and the success of your wiring project.

Electrical Wiring Color Coding System