Electrical Engineer how-to

How to Do a Load Calculation

Accurate loads size equipment correctly.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Accurate loads size equipment correctly. In short: list; apply; sum, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. List all loads.

  2. Apply demand factors.

  3. Sum loads by panel.

  4. Add future growth.

  5. Size feeders and equipment.

  6. Document per code.

Safety reminders for electrical engineers

  • Follow NFPA 70E
  • Design for arc flash safety
  • Follow codes
  • Test before touching

Ohm’s law · One-line diagram · Short circuit · Load calculation · Transformer · Breaker: see the full electrical engineer glossary.

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