In a three-wire, single-phase service, which conductor carries only the unbalanced load?

In a three-wire, single-phase service, the neutral conductor is responsible for carrying only the unbalanced load. In this configuration, there are two phase conductors and one neutral conductor. When loads are connected to the two phases, they may not always draw equal current. This results in an unbalanced load, which is the difference between the currents in the two phase conductors.

The neutral conductor serves as a return path for the current that is not balanced. It effectively carries the residual current that results when the two phase currents do not match, ensuring that the system remains stable and that the equipment operates correctly without overload. This is essential for the safety and functionality of the electrical system, as it helps prevent potential issues such as overheating or failure of components.

The ground conductor, on the other hand, is primarily for safety, providing a path for fault currents to prevent electrical shock hazards. The term 'service conductor' can refer to all conductors supplying power, including phases and neutral, but it does not specify the role of the neutral in relation to unbalanced loads. Therefore, identifying the neutral as the carrier of the unbalanced load is key in understanding the workings of a three-wire, single-phase service.