What color of wire is typically used to indicate a 240-volt circuit?

In residential wiring, a 240-volt circuit typically requires two hot wires to properly distribute power for higher voltage applications. The standard colors used for these wires are red and black. This color coding helps easily identify the conductors intended for this voltage level.

In many electrical systems, black is used for one of the hot wires, while red serves as the second hot wire in a 240-volt setup. This distinction is crucial for ensuring safe connections and making it easier for electricians and homeowners to troubleshoot and maintain systems.

Colors like blue are often used for specific purposes like three-phase systems or for control wiring, and green generally designates ground wires, which are not associated with carrying the circuit voltage. White wires typically indicate a neutral conductor, which is part of 120-volt circuits rather than a 240-volt circuit. Therefore, the use of red and black for 240-volt circuits is a clear standard that aids in both installation and safety.