HouseChalk
Load calculation
A load calculation is a method for estimating how much electrical demand your home will have with existing and new equipment.
Why it matters
It helps determine whether your current service is enough or if you need a service upgrade.
Where people get this wrong
A load calculation is not the same as counting breakers. A home can have many circuits but still have limited total capacity.
Real-world example
You add a hot tub, a new range, and an EV charger. Everything works fine until a cold night when the heat pump and hot water heater run too. A load calculation helps plan for that reality up front.
Where this hits your build
This matters during rough-in and before drywall. Once walls close, adding or moving wiring becomes expensive. Plan ahead.
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