How much general lighting load must be calculated at 100% for a multi-family dwelling?

When calculating the general lighting load for a multi-family dwelling, the National Electrical Code (NEC) provides guidelines that are generally applied. Specifically, for dwelling units, a base demand of 3,000 volt-amperes (VA) is typically used for one- or two-family dwellings. However, for multi-family units, the calculation does indeed refer to a standard threshold.

The rationale behind the calculation is based on the expected load that is necessary to accommodate the general lighting requirements of each unit while ensuring safety and efficiency in the electrical design. The 3,000 VA figure aligns with the NEC standards, which are utilized by professionals in the field to ensure that the load estimates are accurate and meet the overall demand of residential spaces.

This standard is especially important as it not only serves as a guide for initial electrical system design but also ensures that sufficient capacity is available for potential future upgrades or changes in electrical usage patterns in the unit, making it a prudent choice for load calculations in multi-family dwellings.