Lighting Load Calculator

Use this lighting load workflow when area, VA-per-square-foot basis, demand factor, and continuous multiplier are already known.

  • Updated August 22, 2026
Inputs
Result

Formulas

  • Connected lighting VA = area x VA per square foot
  • Demand lighting VA = connected lighting VA x demand factor percent / 100
  • Adjusted lighting VA = demand lighting VA x continuous multiplier percent / 100
  • Lighting current = adjusted lighting VA / (phase multiplier x voltage)

Use this calculator

Estimate connected lighting VA, demand lighting VA, adjusted lighting VA, and current from area, VA per square foot, demand factor, multiplier, voltage, and phase.

Read the result

Review the calculated values with their displayed units and assumptions. The result is a planning aid for the stated inputs, not a final equipment or installation decision.

Check before final work

This lighting load estimate uses user-entered area, load density, and factors. It does not apply occupancy tables, energy-code rules, branch-circuit sizing, or code compliance.

FAQs

Does this choose the VA per square foot value?

No. You enter the load-density value. The calculator only performs the arithmetic.

Is this a complete lighting code calculation?

No. Occupancy, energy code, controls, emergency lighting, and branch-circuit requirements need separate review.

Why is the continuous multiplier separate?

Keeping it separate makes the arithmetic visible and lets you match the project basis you are screening.