Using the optional calculation method, what is the VA total for the 'general loads' in a 2,500 sq ft dwelling with the following loads? 2 - Small-appliance branch circuits 1 - Laundry branch circuit 1 - 1 kW dishwasher 1 - 5.5 kW clothes dryer 1 - 1,600 VA pump motor 1 - 7.5 kW electric range

Using the optional calculation method, what is the VA total for the 'general loads' in a 2,500 sq ft dwelling with the following loads? 2 - Small-appliance branch circuits 1 - Laundry branch circuit 1 - 1 kW dishwasher 1 - 5.5 kW clothes dryer 1 - 1,600 VA pump motor 1 - 7.5 kW electric range

• A. 17,040 VA
• B. 29,500 VA
• C. 16,000 VA
• D. 19,500 VA

Answer: (A)

In the optional calculation method, you separate the dwelling load into two parts: the general lighting/receptacle load and an appliance-load group that is reduced by a demand factor. Start with the general load: 2,500 ft² times 3 VA per ft² equals 7,500 VA. Next, consider the appliance loads listed (dishwasher, dryer, pump, range). Their total nameplate load is 1,000 + 5,500 + 1,600 + 7,500 = 15,600 VA. Under the optional method, this appliance group is reduced by the applicable demand factor for four appliances, which yields about 9,540 VA. Add the general load and the reduced appliance-load contribution: 7,500 + 9,540 = 17,040 VA. So, the VA total for the general loads using the optional calculation method is 17,040 VA.

In the optional calculation method, you separate the dwelling load into two parts: the general lighting/receptacle load and an appliance-load group that is reduced by a demand factor.

Start with the general load: 2,500 ft² times 3 VA per ft² equals 7,500 VA.

Next, consider the appliance loads listed (dishwasher, dryer, pump, range). Their total nameplate load is 1,000 + 5,500 + 1,600 + 7,500 = 15,600 VA. Under the optional method, this appliance group is reduced by the applicable demand factor for four appliances, which yields about 9,540 VA.

Add the general load and the reduced appliance-load contribution: 7,500 + 9,540 = 17,040 VA.

So, the VA total for the general loads using the optional calculation method is 17,040 VA.