Where to connect the other end of the pigtail

The free end of a pigtail wire should be connected to the corresponding terminal on the device, following standard color coding: black to brass (hot), white to silver (neutral), and green or bare to the ground screw.

Step-by-Step Guidance

1. Identify the pigtail type and color:

• Black (hot) pigtail connects to the brass-colored terminal screw.
• White (neutral) pigtail connects to the silver-colored terminal screw.
• Green or bare (ground) pigtail connects to the green grounding screw on the device or box . 2. Prepare the wire end:
• Strip about ½ inch of insulation from the pigtail if not already exposed.
• Form a small clockwise hook (J-hook) at the end using needle-nose pliers. This ensures the wire wraps under the screw in the same direction it tightens, preventing it from slipping out . 3. Connect to the device:
• Place the hooked end under the appropriate terminal screw.
• Tighten the screw firmly to ensure a secure electrical connection.
• For devices with push-in terminals, insert the stripped wire end fully into the slot if allowed by the manufacturer . 4. Fold and secure wires in the box:
• Carefully fold the connected wires in an accordion fashion to avoid strain.
• Mount the device securely and attach the faceplate. 5. Safety check:
• Always turn off power at the breaker before working.
• Verify the circuit is de-energized using a voltage tester.
• Wear safety glasses and insulated gloves during installation . By following these steps, the pigtail ensures a reliable connection that isolates the device from the main circuit, maintaining continuity for downstream devices even if the outlet or switch is removed or fails .