Question – Identifying the Ground Wire

Which wire is the ground wire?

Hi, I have some old 220 volt fans. Each motor has three wires- one wire is black and I know that one’s hot. But one of the other wires is purple, and the last wire is orange. Between the purple and the orange, can you tell me which one is the common? Thanks for your help.

When wiring 220 Volt devices it is common to have 2 hots – for the 220 Volts and the other would be a ground which is attached to the frame. The best way to find out which is the ground wire would be to use a continuity meter and see which wire is grounded. Be sure the motors are rated for 60 HZ or Cycle Power. I would get more info off the fan or motor and Google it – then you’ll know for sure.

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Skill Level:
Intermediate to Advanced - Electrical Repairs and Circuit Wiring is Best Performed by a Certified Electrician or Licensed Electrical Contractor.

Electrical Tools Required:
Basic Electricians Pouch of Hand Tools, a Voltage Tester and a Multi Meter.

Estimated Time:
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 circuit, turn it OFF and Tag it with a Note before working with the wiring.

Important:
Modifying existing electrical circuits or installing additional electrical wiring should be done according to local and National Electrical Codes, with a permit and be inspected.