What is 'load calculation' in electrical work?

Load calculation refers to the process of determining the total electrical load on a circuit, which is crucial for ensuring that the circuit can safely handle the electrical demand placed on it. This involves calculating the sum of all the electrical devices and appliances that will be powered by the circuit, expressed in watts or amperes.

Accurate load calculations are essential for selecting appropriate wire sizes, breakers, and other components in an electrical system to prevent overheating, reduce the risk of electrical fires, and ensure system reliability. Proper load calculations also help in determining the capacity of transformers and utility services required for a specific installation.

Other choices focus on different aspects of electrical work—laying out circuits, measuring wire resistance, and assessing voltage, but none of these directly address the critical concept of assessing total electrical demand on a circuit, which is what load calculation specifically pertains to.