What is the first step in calculating the service requirement for a building?

Determining the floor area of the building is essential as it serves as a foundational step in calculating service requirements. The floor area allows you to establish the scope of the electrical needs for lighting, receptacles, and HVAC systems based on code requirements and usage estimates. This initial measurement provides a basis for subsequent calculations, helping to ensure an adequate supply of electrical service to meet the building's operational needs.

Once the floor area is established, it can be used as a reference point for estimating the total load, calculating lighting loads, and assessing demand factors—each of which builds upon the initial understanding of the physical space that requires electrical service. Without knowing the floor area, it would be challenging to make accurate calculations regarding the electrical services needed for the building.