What does the term electrical load refer to?

The term electrical load refers to the total amount of current required by all the electrical devices and appliances connected in a system or circuit. It represents the demand for electrical power within a home or any facility, based on the power consumption of devices like lights, refrigerators, heaters, and other equipment. Understanding electrical load is essential for designing safe and efficient electrical systems, as it helps determine the appropriate size of wiring, circuit breakers, and other components to handle the expected usage.

The distinction between current and other concepts, such as voltage or insulation, is important since those relate to different aspects of electrical systems. Voltage pertains to the electrical potential difference in a circuit rather than the demand for current. Therefore, focusing on the current required by devices provides a complete picture of the electrical needs of a particular setup.