FAQ
TL;DR: 12 of 14 sockets had phase on the left; "The brown cable is PE as it turned out." Verify with a multimeter; never trust colors alone. [Elektroda, AnonNazwaUżytkownika, #17397519]
Why it matters: Misidentified conductors can defeat protection and damage appliances; this FAQ is for apartment buyers and DIYers troubleshooting mixed-color wiring in older installations.
Quick Facts
- In this flat, modern runs used L=brown, N=blue, PE=yellow‑green; the kitchen box also had black as live. [Elektroda, AnonNazwaUżytkownika, #17397092]
- Yellow‑green is reserved for the protective conductor; substituting another color is incorrect. [Elektroda, ta_tar, post #17397109]
- Wiring runs in pipes (conduits) with a single sheathed cable, not loose singles. [Elektroda, AnonNazwaUżytkownika, #17397155]
- Appliances here are 230 V and use three conductors; no two phases were used. [Elektroda, AnonNazwaUżytkownika, #17397135]
- Outlet orientation varied: 12/14 left‑phase, 2/14 right‑phase; test before relying on orientation. [Elektroda, AnonNazwaUżytkownika, #17397519]
How were the wires actually connected in this kitchen case?
Black was live (L). Blue was neutral (N). Brown, unusually, was protective (PE). The user confirmed this using a lamp holder and a multimeter. They then marked the brown with yellow‑green insulation for clarity. Plan a proper rewire so PE is yellow‑green end‑to‑end. [Elektroda, AnonNazwaUżytkownika, #17397519]
Should I trust wire colors when installing a socket?
Do not. "The colors of the wires are a suggestion, but you should never be sure what's behind them." Always test and label before touching conductors. Measure first, then connect. If in doubt, hire a qualified electrician. [Elektroda, retrofood, post #17397186]
How do I identify L, N, and PE with a multimeter?
Use a multimeter (e.g., Fluke) and a test load.
- Switch off the breaker and verify the circuit is dead.
- With power off, continuity‑test the suspected PE to the lampholder’s earth or metal body.
- Re‑energize briefly and meter to identify the live, then de‑energize again. [Elektroda, AnonNazwaUżytkownika, #17397519]
Is it OK to mark a miscolored PE with yellow‑green tape?
Yes, as a temporary identification step. The poster wrapped the miscolored brown PE with yellow‑green tape. That reduces confusion during maintenance. Schedule a correction so the protective conductor is the proper yellow‑green along its route. [Elektroda, AnonNazwaUżytkownika, #17397519]
Why is using brown as PE unsafe or non‑compliant?
"You cannot replace the yellow‑green (protective) cable with a different color." It breaks clear identification and is considered incorrect. Treat this as a wiring error that needs remediation by a competent person. [Elektroda, ta_tar, post #17397109]
Phase left or right—does the socket side matter?
In this flat, 12 of 14 receptacles had phase on the left, two on the right. That inconsistency complicates troubleshooting. Standardize within your home for clarity, and label while you work. Always verify orientation before connecting appliances. [Elektroda, AnonNazwaUżytkownika, #17397519]
Does a 230 V stove or combi boiler need special wiring?
This stove ran on 230 V with three conductors and a standard socket. There were no two phases available or used. Ensure a protective conductor exists and is identified before powering the appliance. [Elektroda, AnonNazwaUżytkownika, #17397135]
The wiring is in conduit with a sheathed cable—can I fix it without re‑chasing walls?
The conductors run in pipes, and the run uses a sheathed cable. That often makes corrections easier. You can pull a correctly colored protective conductor or replace the cable without chasing plaster. [Elektroda, AnonNazwaUżytkownika, #17397155]
In a three‑wire box (black, blue, brown), which one is live?
In this case, black was live. The user confirmed the phase with a tester before proceeding. Do not assume colors; confirm at each box and outlet. [Elektroda, AnonNazwaUżytkownika, #17397092]
Why would a pro use brown as PE in just one outlet?
One likely reason is a missing yellow‑green in that run. "Perhaps only in this socket he lacked a protective cable and he added a different color." Check the rest of the circuit and correct the fault. [Elektroda, ta_tar, post #17397109]
What should I do before installing a new socket on this circuit?
Identify every conductor by measurement before wiring. "A real electrician checks what is where before any work." Map L, N, and PE at the box and the device. If unsure, stop and call a professional. [Elektroda, retrofood, post #17397186]
Are these "cables" or "wires" in the box—and does terminology matter?
Inside the sheathed cable you have individual wires. "These are not cables, but wires." Using the correct terms helps you get precise help and parts. [Elektroda, retrofood, post #17397186]
The brown cable is PE as it turned out. A very strange thing, but I marked the end of this cable with yellow-green insulation, also straightened a little. By the way, I discovered that out of 14 sockets, 12 have the phase on the left and two on the right ... but this is just a confirmation of what the bastard was doing. Regards 