CSLB C-10 Electrical ContractorPlanning and EstimatingEasy

A client is planning a new commercial office building. The blueprints specify a 208V, 3-phase, 4-wire service with a total general lighting load of 30,000 VA and 15,000 VA of receptacle loads. All loads are considered non-continuous. What is the minimum calculated demand load for the general lighting and receptacle loads, before applying any demand factors for receptacles?

  1. A45,000 VA
  2. B33,000 VA
  3. C30,000 VA
  4. D37,500 VA
Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: A. 45,000 VA

The question asks for the minimum calculated demand load for general lighting and receptacle loads before applying any demand factors. In this case, it's a direct sum of the given VA values.

Why the other options are wrong

  • B. This is an incorrect calculation, possibly applying a demand factor prematurely or incorrectly.
  • C. This only accounts for the general lighting load.
  • D. This incorrectly applies a partial demand factor or miscalculates the sum.

Total Connected Load

The sum of the volt-ampere (VA) ratings of all electrical equipment and loads connected to a wiring system or service, before applying any demand factors.

  • Represents the maximum potential load if all equipment operates simultaneously.
  • Used as a starting point for load calculations.
  • Demand factors are applied to this value to determine the actual service or feeder size.

Memory trick: Connect ALL the lights and plugs for the total picture.

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