A document designed to determine the total electrical demand of a residential building. This tool systematically lists all electrical devices and systems within the house, assigns them a calculated wattage, and sums these values according to standardized methodologies found in electrical codes. For instance, it itemizes general lighting, appliance circuits, heating, air conditioning, and large fixed appliances to establish a comprehensive load profile.
Accurate determination of this demand is vital for selecting appropriately sized electrical service equipment, such as the service entrance conductors, overcurrent protection, and the main panelboard. Insufficient capacity can lead to system overload, creating safety hazards and equipment malfunctions. Historically, these calculations relied on manual tables and rules of thumb. Modern approaches frequently involve digital tools and software, improving precision and efficiency. Benefits include enhanced safety, cost savings through optimized equipment sizing, and compliance with electrical regulations.
