What must be considered when calculating demand for service?

When calculating demand for service according to the National Electrical Code (NEC), it is essential to take into account a combination of load requirements, diversity factors, and fixed appliances.

Load requirements refer to the total electrical load that will be drawn from the service, which includes understanding both continuous and non-continuous loads. This involves knowing the actual expected loads that will be connected to the service, which can vary greatly from one installation to another.

Diversity factors are important because they acknowledge that not all electrical loads will be in use at the same time. For example, in a commercial application, several pieces of equipment might not operate simultaneously, allowing for a reduction in the total anticipated demand compared to simply adding up the load of each device.

Fixed appliances should also be considered, as they usually have a defined load and must be factored into overall demand calculations. These are appliances like water heaters, refrigerators, and HVAC systems that will be continuously drawing power and must be included in the demand calculation.

Together, these elements provide a comprehensive understanding of the demand that will be placed on the service, ensuring that it is properly sized and designed to handle the expected load efficiently and safely. Ignoring any of these factors could lead to inadequate service capacity and