When calculating load, what is the general unit of measurement used for receptacle load?

The general unit of measurement used for receptacle load is VA (Volt-Amperes). This unit represents the apparent power in an electrical circuit and is especially relevant when assessing the power consumption of devices that are connected to receptacles.

In a typical household or commercial setting, receptacles supply power to various devices, which may be resistive, inductive, or capacitive. VA accounts for the combination of voltage and current in the circuit without factoring in the phase angle between them, making it useful for calculating total load more accurately, especially when considering non-linear loads.

Using VA for receptacle load calculations helps ensure that both the current and voltage are considered effectively, allowing for a better understanding of the overall power requirements of connected devices. Consequently, it's critical to design electrical systems that can handle the total VA load, guiding the selection of appropriate conductors, circuit breakers, and transformers.