Multi-Wire Branch Circuits

A multi-wire branch circuit in a residential dwelling contains two 120V wires of different phases (A and B phase) and share one neutral wire as return current. When a three wire NM cable is used for this type of circuit:

The black wire is usually the A phase 120V.
The red wire is usually the B phase 120V.
The white wire is the neutral, providing return current for both of the A and B phase 120V.
The bare copper wire is the ground.

See example diagrams below. Outlet ground connection diagram is shown separately.

Multi-Wire Branch Circuit Wiring Diagrams

Multi-Wire Branch Circuit Correct Wiring Diagram

The neutral wires are connected together before connecting to the terminals on the left outlet. The NEC does not require the line (black) wires to be connected together before connecting to the terminals on the left outlet.

It is preferred that the line (black) wires be connected together before connecting to the terminals on the left outlet, even though it is not required by the NEC.

Multi-Wire Branch Circuit Incorrect Wiring

Multi-wire Branch Circuit Incorrect Wiring Diagram

The neutral wires are not connected together before connecting to the outlet on the left. The two left outlets do not meet the NEC for a multi-wire branch circuit. If the neutral wires are disconnected with B phase power turned on, the neutral wire from the B phase outlet has line voltage.

Open Neutral Multi-Wire Circuit

Multi-Wire Branch Circuit Preferred Wiring Diagram

Basic Electricity

Wire Nuts

Different Voltage Ratings

Electrical Ground

Low Voltage

Electrical Definitions

Ohm’s Law

Electrical Circuits

Multi-Wire Branch Circuits

Circuit Current Ratings

NM Cable (Romex)

Multi-wire Branch Circuit Correct Wiring Diagram

Multi-wire Branch Circuit Preferred Wiring Diagram