What color is commonly designated for an ungrounded conductor?

The color commonly designated for an ungrounded conductor is indeed red. In electrical installations, the National Electrical Code (NEC) outlines specific color codes for conductors to ensure safety and clarity in wiring systems. An ungrounded conductor, which carries current and is not connected to the ground, is often marked with red. This coloring is vital for identifying conductors during installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting, as it helps electricians quickly discern which wires are potentially live and should be handled with caution.

Grounded conductors typically use white or gray coloring, while green is universally reserved for grounding conductors. Black is frequently used for additional ungrounded conductors in certain configurations, but red specifically helps to denote one of the ungrounded conductors in a system featuring multiple phases, especially in three-phase systems. Understanding these color designations is crucial for maintaining safety and compliance with electrical codes.