Switchboard load schedule workflow
A field-oriented guide to preparing Australian switchboard load rows before using maximum-demand and phase-balancing calculators.
Purpose of the load schedule
A switchboard load schedule turns scattered project information into rows that can be reviewed. Good rows make maximum-demand and phase-balancing calculations easier to check because the source, phase, load type and assumption are visible.
The schedule should not hide judgement inside a final number. It should show how the number was built so another reviewer can find the row that controls the result.
Build the row before calculating
- Name the board, circuit, load group or equipment.
- Record whether the row is single phase, three phase or a grouped allowance.
- Enter the known current, kW, kVA or calculated current basis.
- Record the factor, diversity or allowance as a user-entered project assumption.
- Keep spare capacity and review notes separate from fixed load values.
- Use phase-balancing only after row values and phase allocation are clear.
Schedule fields
| Field | Purpose | Review question |
|---|---|---|
| Board or circuit label | Identifies where the row belongs | Can another reviewer find this row on drawings or schedules? |
| Load type | Separates lighting, power, equipment, EV or other groups | Does the row belong in this demand group? |
| Phase allocation | Shows single-phase distribution or three-phase basis | Does the load affect phase balance? |
| Entered current or power | Carries the numerical basis | Is the source measured, scheduled or assumed? |
| Demand or allowance factor | Records the user-entered assumption | Is the factor justified by the project method? |
| Review note | Captures authority, DNSP or designer caveats | What must be checked before relying on the row? |
Boundaries
- Do not treat the worksheet as a final compliance assessment.
- Do not hide demand assumptions inside one unexplained total.
- Do not reuse old switchboard rows without checking the current project.
- Do not publish fixed demand-factor claims without a documented source and review basis.