What does "line voltage" refer to?

Line voltage refers to the voltage present on the electrical supply lines that deliver electricity from the utility company to homes and businesses. This is the voltage level at which power is transmitted through the distribution system and is typically measured between two conductors in an electrical system.

In residential systems, for example, standard line voltages might be 120 or 240 volts, depending on the configuration and the electrical codes in effect. This voltage is essential for the operation of appliances and electrical devices. Understanding line voltage is key in electrical work, as it ensures that equipment is compatible with the voltage levels they will receive from the supply lines, and helps in troubleshooting and ensuring safety.