Unravelling the Mystery of Old German Electrical Wiring Colours

The wiring colours used in electrical equipment throughout Germany can be a bit confusing at first glance. This is due to the fact that different wiring colours were used in different areas and periods. As a result, you may find yourself wondering what the colours actually mean and what they mean for modern installations. In this article, we will look at the basics of old German electrical wiring colours, so that you can make sure your installations meet standards and that everyone stays safe.

The History of Old German Electrical Wiring Colours

German electrical wiring colours are based on a system of colour coding that was developed in the early 19th century. This system was adopted by many European countries during the 20th century, and it is still in use today. The most common colours used in old German electrical wiring are black, white, red, yellow, grey and blue. Each of these has a specific meaning.

Black and White Wiring Colours

In the old German wiring system, black wires represent the "hot" wire or the "ground" wire, while white wires represent the neutral wire. Black wires are typically used for supplying power to switches, outlets and other items. White wires are typically used for connecting two devices together. It is important to note that in some cases, black and white wires can be reversed.

Red and Yellow Wiring Colours

The red and yellow wires are used for safety-related applications. Red wires are typically used to connect a switch to a circuit breaker, while yellow wires are used to connect the ground wire to a switch. It is important to note that these wires should not be confused with the black and white wires.

Grey and Blue Wiring Colours

The grey and blue wires in the old German wiring system are used for signalling purposes. Grey wires are typically used for "switched hot" applications, while blue wires are typically used for "switched neutral" applications. Grey and blue wires are usually found in special switches and outlets, so it is important to make sure that the correct wiring colour codes are followed when connecting these devices.

Conclusion

Old German electrical wiring colours may seem confusing at first glance, but understanding the basics of the colour code system is essential for creating safe and reliable electrical installations. By following the colour coding instructions provided in our article, you can be sure that your installations meet the current standards, and that everyone involved remains safe.

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