What color is typically designated for ground wires in residential wiring?

In residential wiring, ground wires play a crucial role in safety by providing a path for electricity to safely return to the ground in the event of a fault. The color code adhered to in most electrical installations designates ground wires as either green insulation or bare copper. This standardization is essential because it helps electricians and technicians easily identify the function of each wire in a system, reducing the potential for errors during installation or maintenance.

In contrast, other colors in the options serve different purposes; for instance, black is typically used for hot wires, red might also indicate a secondary hot wire in a 220-volt circuit, and blue is often utilized for travelers in three-way switches or for other designated purposes. This distinct color designation for ground wires enhances safety and facilitates proper wiring practices in residential electrical systems.