Ever wanted to do a simple electrical job, but you weren't quite sure about all that wiring stuff? Today, you'll learn how you can tell which wires are hot and which wires are not -- without trial and error. It's easy if you know the code, the color code, that is. In a simple receptacle box there are only three wires. The black one is hot; meaning it delivers the electricity. So be careful here. The white wire is neutral; it completes the circuit and is the return path for the current. The green wire is always the ground (it's sometimes just a bare copper wire). Knowing these simple indicators is step two in tackling projects safely and with confidence. Step one always is to turn the power off first, and putting a little note on the circuit-breaker or fuse box telling other family members that you're doing electrical work and not to turn the power back on. And that's the On The House tip for today.