Max Demand Table -
Oversimplifying by adding the nameplate ratings of all connected loads leads to grossly oversized transformers, cables, and switchgear, resulting in unnecessary expense. Conversely, underestimating leads to nuisance tripping, fire hazards, and voltage drop failures. The solves this by applying diversity factors or assessment criteria to different load types.
The Max Demand Table is used to determine:
Some common features of a max demand table include: max demand table
The Maximum Demand Table is an essential document in electrical power system design, installation, and management. It serves to calculate the expected peak load (in kVA or kW) that an electrical installation will draw from the supply network. This paper explores the purpose, methodology, calculation standards (based on IEC, BS 7671, and AS/NZS 3000), and practical application of the Max Demand Table. It demonstrates that proper use of this table prevents overloading, ensures voltage stability, reduces capital expenditure on oversized equipment, and ensures compliance with regulatory safety standards.
| Circuit / Load Type | Connected Load (W) / A | Assessment Rule (per standard) | Assessed Demand (W) | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | 1,500 W | 100% of connected load | 1,500 W | | General Power Outlets (10 x 10A) | 10 outlets x 2,400W = 24,000 W | First 10A = 2,400W; Remaining 9 outlets x 50% = 10,800W | 13,200 W | | Refrigeration (2 fridges) | 1,200 W each (2,400W total) | Largest at 100% (1,200W), second at 50% (600W) | 1,800 W | | Microwave Oven | 1,500 W | 100% | 1,500 W | | Air Conditioner (split) | 3,500 W | 100% (only one) | 3,500 W | | Water Heater (under sink) | 2,400 W | 100% (or 0% if off-peak – assume peak) | 2,400 W | | Exhaust Fan | 300 W | 100% | 300 W | | Total Assessed Demand (Watts) | | | 24,200 W | | Divide by Voltage (230V) | | | 105.2 Amps | | Add 25% for future growth | | | ~131 Amps | Oversimplifying by adding the nameplate ratings of all
Domestic Installations (AS/NZS 3000 Table C1 / BS 7671 Analogs)
The Maximum Demand Table is far more than a simple spreadsheet—it is a risk management tool. When constructed correctly using recognized diversity rules, it ensures that an electrical installation is safe, economical, and reliable. Engineers and electricians who neglect this step either overspend on infrastructure (copper, transformers, switchgear) or create dangerous overload conditions. A well-prepared Max Demand Table forms the foundation of every compliant electrical design. The Max Demand Table is used to determine:
In electrical design, a is used to estimate the largest current likely to be carried by an installation. Rather than simply summing all connected loads, these tables apply diversity factors (or "demand factors") to account for the fact that not all devices operate at full capacity simultaneously.
: Provides the Energy Demand Method for non-domestic sites, often used for preliminary sizing based on floor area (
Before diving into the lookup tables, electrical standards outline four methods to establish an installation's maximum demand:
| Load Type | Assessment Method for Max Demand | | :--- | :--- | | | 100% of total connected load (or 0.66 x connected watts for fluorescent with PF correction) | | Socket Outlets (GPOs) | First 10A at 100%; each additional 10A at 50%; or 0.75 x total VA if commercial. | | Fixed Cooking Appliances | First 5kW at 100%; next 5kW at 40%; remainder at 25%. | | Air Conditioners (multiple) | Largest unit at 100%; remainder at 75% (if interlocked) or 100% if not. | | Motors (intermittent) | Largest motor at 100%; next largest at 50%; others at 25%. | | Hot Water Systems | 100% of controlled load (off-peak) but 0% of peak demand if separately metered. |



