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NEC Load Calculator

NEC 220 · Residential Demand Load

When to use: Use this calculator when sizing the service entrance for a new or renovated residential dwelling. Per NEC Article 220, the service size must accommodate the total calculated demand load — not just the sum of all connected loads. Demand factors reduce the total because not all loads run simultaneously. Required for permit applications, utility coordination, and panel sizing.

Building
Conditioned living area
sq ft
Small Appliance & Laundry
Min 2 required (NEC 210.11)
circuits
Include Laundry Circuit
1,500 VA per NEC 220.52(B)
HVAC
Largest motor or A/C unit
kW
Fixed Appliances
VA
Min 5,000 VA (NEC 220.54)
VA
NEC 220.55 demand applied
VA
VA
7,200 VA = 30A @ 240V
VA
VA
Calculated Demand
Lighting Load (before demand)6,000 VA
Sm. Appliance + Laundry4,500 VA
Lighting Demand (after NEC 220.42)5,625 VA
Appliance Demand16,100 VA
Dryer Demand (NEC 220.54)5,000 VA
Range Demand (NEC 220.55)8,000 VA
HVAC Load (100%)5,000 VA
Total Calculated Demand39,725 VA
Calculated Current165.5 A
Recommended Service Size
200A
240V · Standard residential
NEC References
NEC 220.12 — Lighting load (3 VA/sq ft)
NEC 220.52 — Small appliance circuits
NEC 220.42 — Lighting demand factors
NEC 220.53 — Appliance demand (75% over 3)
NEC 220.54 — Electric dryer minimum
NEC 220.55 — Cooking equipment demand