If you’ve ever opened a plug, replaced a light fitting, or looked behind a socket, you might’ve wondered what all those wire colours mean. Especially if you’re asking, “What colour is live in house wiring?” you’re not alone. Understanding wiring colours is vital for safety and compliance, particularly in UK homes, where regulations have changed over time. For professional assistance, visit our Domestic Electrical Service Page.
In this guide, we’ll break down UK wiring colours, explain the role of each, clarify recent changes in wire colour codes, and help you stay safe when dealing with domestic electrics. Whether you’re a curious homeowner or brushing up before calling an electrician, this is your go-to resource.
What Colour is Live in House Wiring?
The live wire carries electrical current from the power source to your appliances. In modern UK house wiring, the live wire is brown.
However, if your home was wired before 2006, the live wire might be red. This change came into effect with updates to the British Standard (BS 7671) to harmonise UK wiring with European standards.
Live Wire Colour Summary:
| Function | Current Colour (Post-2006) | Old Colour (Pre-2006) |
|---|---|---|
| Live | Brown | Red |
Identifying the live wire is crucial when performing any kind of electrical work, as it is the wire most likely to cause electric shock.
How to Spot the Live Wire:
- It is usually connected to the fuse or circuit breaker.
- In a 3-core cable, it’s the brown wire (or red in old installations).
- In a plug, it connects to the right pin when viewed from the front with the earth pin at the top.
Important: Always turn off power at the consumer unit before inspecting or handling wiring.
Read more: How long does wiring last in a house
Understanding Other Wire Colours (Neutral, Earth, etc.)
While the live wire carries current to a device, neutral and earth wires perform different roles.
Current UK Wiring Colours:
| Function | Colour |
|---|---|
| Live | Brown |
| Neutral | Blue |
| Earth | Green & Yellow |
Role of Each Wire:
- Neutral (Blue): Returns current back to the power source.
- Earth (Green & Yellow): Provides a safety path for electricity in case of a fault.
In older wiring:
| Function | Old Colour |
|---|---|
| Neutral | Black |
| Earth | Bare copper or green |
Key Tip:
If you see both old and new colours in your home, the wiring may have been partially upgraded. Have an electrician review it.
Read more: How to plan lighting for your house
Old vs. New Wiring Colour Standards
In 2006, UK wiring regulations changed to align with European standards. This means older properties may still have the previous colour coding.
Summary of Changes:
| Wire Type | Pre-2006 Colour | Post-2006 Colour |
|---|---|---|
| Live | Red | Brown |
| Neutral | Black | Blue |
| Earth | Green | Green & Yellow |
Why It Matters:
- Mixing colours can be confusing and dangerous if not properly labelled.
- Rewiring during renovations should always follow current standards.
If you’re unsure about your home’s wiring colour scheme, always consult a qualified electrician.
3 Phase Colours and UK Plug Wiring Explained
3 Phase Wiring Colours (Post-2006):
For industrial or commercial settings using 3-phase systems:
| Phase | Colour |
|---|---|
| L1 | Brown |
| L2 | Black |
| L3 | Grey |
| Neutral | Blue |
| Earth | Green & Yellow |
These are rarely found in typical domestic settings but are important for homeowners with workshops or garages.
UK Plug Wiring:
Inside a standard UK 3-pin plug:
- Live (Brown): Right-hand pin
- Neutral (Blue): Left-hand pin
- Earth (Green & Yellow): Top pin
Make sure to:
- Secure wires tightly inside terminals
- Use a correctly rated fuse (typically 3A or 13A)
Safety Tips for Handling House Wiring
Even basic electrical jobs carry risks. Always prioritise safety:
Essential Tips:
- Turn off power at the mains before working.
- Use insulated tools and test for live current.
- Never guess wire functions—check diagrams or consult an electrician.
- Label old wires if you’re removing or replacing any fixtures.
- Get an EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) if you suspect outdated wiring.
Remember: If in doubt, don’t DIY – call a professional.
Read more: Troubleshooting Common House Wiring Problems
Conclusion
Knowing what each wire colour means can save lives, prevent damage, and ensure your home meets current UK standards. The live wire is brown in new systems, but may be red in older ones. Neutral is now blue, and earth is green and yellow.
When handling any electrical components, safety and compliance with BS 7671 should always come first. If you’re ever unsure, a qualified electrician can help you navigate old vs. new wiring and keep your home safe.
Related Reading:
- How long does wiring last in a house
- How to plan lighting for your house
- Troubleshooting Common House Wiring Problems
Need help with home electrics? Visit our Domestic Electrical Service Page for professional support.
