What is recommended for the labeling of boxes in dwellings?

Labeling electrical boxes accurately is crucial for safety and ease of maintenance in electrical systems within dwellings. The recommended approach is to use labels that reflect the connections made within the boxes where applicable. This practice is beneficial because it allows anyone who is inspecting or working on the electrical system to quickly understand which circuits are connected and how they are configured. It promotes safety by minimizing the chance of incorrect connections or invasive work without proper knowledge of the existing circuit configurations.

This method of labeling is aligned with the NEC guidelines, emphasizing clarity and accessibility of information related to electrical installations. By providing detailed descriptions of connections, electricians and homeowners can troubleshoot issues more efficiently and perform maintenance with a greater understanding of the system's design.

In contrast, the other options, while they may have their merits, do not offer the same level of clarity regarding the specific interconnections in the boxes. Color-coding based on function or using standardized labels for conductors may help in certain contexts but do not convey the detailed and direct information needed for working on or troubleshooting electrical systems. Similarly, labels indicating load capacity, while important, are less directly related to understanding how the circuits are interconnected in that box, which is paramount for ensuring safe and effective electrical work.