NATE Air Conditioning and Heat Pumps Practice Exam

In wiring diagrams, dashed or dotted lines usually indicate ____.

1. factory-installed wiring

2. field-installed wiring

3. non-insulated wiring

4. shielded cable

The correct answer is: field-installed wiring

In wiring diagrams, dashed or dotted lines are commonly used to indicate field-installed wiring. This type of wiring refers to electrical connections that are made on-site, as opposed to factory-installed wiring, which is typically represented by solid lines. Using dashed lines helps differentiate between wiring installed by the manufacturer during production and modifications or additions made after the equipment reaches its installation location. This distinction is crucial for technicians and electricians as it provides clear guidance on which wiring elements are part of the original system and which may have been altered or added later to accommodate specific installation requirements. Understanding this convention aids in troubleshooting and maintaining the system effectively.