A freely available electronic document, often in a tabular format, designed to estimate the total electrical demand of a building or system. This tool typically incorporates formulas and input fields for users to specify appliance wattage, lighting loads, and other electrical equipment. It provides a calculated value representing the anticipated maximum power requirement, crucial for electrical system design and safety.
The availability of such a resource offers several advantages. It can significantly reduce the time and expense associated with manual calculations, minimizing the potential for errors. Historically, electrical engineers relied on hand calculations and complex formulas. The development and dissemination of these resources democratizes access to essential load estimation tools, enabling a wider range of professionals and even informed homeowners to make informed decisions regarding electrical system capacity.