How is receptacle load generally calculated during load calculations?

In load calculations for receptacles, the correct method is to use 180 VA per outlet. This standard is derived from the National Electrical Code (NEC) guidelines for residential and commercial load calculations. By using this figure, it allows an appropriate estimation of the electrical demand that will be placed on the system by common receptacle loads.

The use of 180 VA per outlet reflects a balance between providing adequate capacity for typical usage while not overly inflating the total load calculation, which can lead to oversizing of feeders and service equipment. This calculation method ensures that the overall load is estimated realistically, taking into consideration the demands of typical appliances and devices that may be plugged into these outlets.

The other options represent various common values for specific applications or load types but do not align with the standard guidance on general receptacle load calculations as per NEC. For example, 120 VA is often associated with smaller devices, while 240 VA and 300 VA are typically reserved for higher load appliances or specialty circuits.