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What is The Purpose of the Neutral Wire

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The Purpose of the Neutral Wire in Electrical Systems

House Wiring Circuits and Circuit Breakers

This article looks at common 120 volt and 240 volt house wiring circuits and the circuit breakers that are installed identifying the types and amperage sizes used in most homes.
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Circuit Wiring

Electrical Circuit Wiring

This article looks at common 120 volt and 240 volt house wiring circuits and the circuit breakers that are installed identifying the types and amperage sizes used in most homes.

For more information about Electrical Wiring
Electrical Wiring

Electrical Wiring
Home electrical wiring projects with pictures and wiring diagrams.

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Do-It-Yourself Electrical

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Comments

One Response to “What is The Purpose of the Neutral Wire”

yo says:

January 10, 2011 at 7:45 pm

if i put an open switch on the hot/live wire right before, say, a radio, no power goes to the radio. however, if i put an open switch on the neutral wire right after the radio, the radio will be full of power. so what is the purpose of a return, neutral wire?

could i just then have 1 hot/live wire and a ground wire coming out of it?

also, if AC goes back and forth, does the neutral become hot/live and the hot/live become neutral on the second half of the cycle?

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Electrical Wiring and Electrical Repairs

Unless otherwise posted, please refer to the following Guidelines for Electrical Projects:
Skill Level:
Intermediate to Advanced - Electrical Repairs and Circuit Wiring is Best Performed by a Licensed Electrical Contractor.
Electrical Tools Required:
Specific to the scope of the work and the condition of the home and the electrical project. Basic Electricians Pouch of Hand Tools, a Voltage Electrical Tester or Multi Function Meter.
Estimated Time:
Project Specific - Depends on personal level experience, ability to work with tools, work with electrical wiring, and the available access to the project area.
Precaution:
Identify the project electrical circuit, turn it OFF and Tag it with a Note before working with the wiring.
Important:
Modifying or installing electrical wiring should be done through the local building authority, installed according to applicable local and national electrical codes, with a permit, and have the required inspections
Notice:
Individuals who are not competent in the abilities and tasks required for electrical wiring projects are encouraged to contact a Local Licensed Electrical Contractor or Certified Electrician.

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