The unit used to measure how much power an electrical device uses — what you see on a light bulb's label.
The fundamental unit of electrical power, equal to one joule per second, representing the rate at which electrical energy is consumed or produced. Watts are calculated by multiplying voltage by current (W = V × A). Electrical equipment is rated in watts or kilowatts to indicate power consumption.
Watts and kilowatts let estimators translate equipment loads into the electrical scope, from panel and circuit sizing to service capacity. Connected load in watts also feeds energy code calculations and generator or transformer sizing, so an estimator reading equipment ratings must roll them up correctly to confirm the design infrastructure carried in the bid is adequate.
Tallying the lighting and equipment schedules, the electrical estimator sums the connected load in watts per panel, converts to kilowatts to check the service size, and confirms the specified gear has enough capacity before pricing the feeders and panelboards.
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