“Electrical wire” is a catch-all term that refers to conductors that route electricity from a power source to lights, appliances, and other electrical devices.

What’s a conductor? A conductor is a material that electrical current can flow through with very little resistance. Copper is the most commonly used material for electrical conductors used in home wiring, though aluminum is occasionally used.

Conductors used for carrying electrical current have an outer sheath of insulation to prevent against the unwanted transfer of electricity (this insulation is stripped from the ends of the wires where connections are made). Bare (non-insulated) conductors are used for grounding (see Electrical Grounding for more information).

Conductors vary by more than their material or insulation; they also vary by size (gauge), construction, and general makeup. When working with wiring, it is  important to choose the right type of wire for the job (see Electrical Wires & Cables).

Browse through the other articles in this section of HomeTips to find additional helpful information for working with electrical wiring.