In a 2,500 sq ft dwelling using the optional method, the general loads total is 17,040 VA. Which of the following represents this value?

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

Answer: (A)

In the optional method, the general loads total is the summed value of all general-use loads expressed in volt-amperes (VA) that you use to size the feeder or service before applying any demand factors. For a 2,500 ft2 dwelling, this calculated total is 17,040 VA. Therefore, the value that represents the general loads total is 17,040 VA. This VA total is the figure used for subsequent sizing steps, not an amperage or a different numeric quantity.