On a standard 120 volt receptacle, which line must always be connected to the brass screw?

In a standard 120-volt receptacle, the hot line is the one that must always be connected to the brass screw. The brass screw is designated for connecting the hot wire, which carries the electrical current from the power source.

This configuration is crucial for proper operation and safety. The hot wire is typically black or red in color, and it provides the electrical supply to the device plugged into the receptacle. When wiring a receptacle, it is essential to ensure that the hot line connects correctly to the brass screw to maintain the correct flow of electricity, thereby preventing any risk of electrical shock.

The other wires have designated connections as well. The neutral line, which is usually white, connects to the silver screw, while the ground line, typically green or bare, connects to a separate ground screw. These color-coded standards help prevent miswirings that could lead to electrical hazards.