What does the bare cable (no sheathing) at a weatherhead typically indicate?

The presence of bare cable at a weatherhead typically indicates the neutral conductor in overhead service drop systems. The neutral wire is usually left uninsulated for several reasons, including identification and to ensure that it can safely dissipate any induced voltage or stray currents that may occur.

In residential electrical systems, the neutral conductor provides a return path for current to complete the circuit, and it is often color-coded as white or gray. However, at the point where the service connects to the utility’s system, using bare wire can help distinguish it from the phase conductors, which are insulated. This practice also allows for easier identification during installation and maintenance, as well as providing a physical grounding point that contributes to safety.

This contrasts with the other options. A "hot leg" would generally be insulated and colored according to the phase; a "support leg" could refer to structural components rather than electrical conductors; and a "tension wire" would also most likely be insulated if it were a part of the electrical system. Thus, bare cable at the weatherhead primarily signifies the role of the neutral conductor in the electrical service entry.