Probable Effect Concentration Quotients (PECQS) Practice Test

What is the demand factor for 15 dwelling units?

1. 20%

2. 30%

3. 40%

4. 50%

The correct answer is: 40%

The demand factor is an important concept in electrical engineering and utility planning, as it represents the ratio of the maximum demand of a group of consumers to the total capacity available for those consumers. When calculating demand factors for multiple dwelling units, the value is typically derived from established standards or empirical data that account for the likelihood of simultaneous usage of resources like electricity. In the case of 15 dwelling units, a demand factor of 40% indicates that, on average, only 40% of the total possible demand is expected to be used at any given time. This percentage is informed by various factors including historical usage patterns, lifestyle habits of residents, and the diversity of demand across units. Using a 40% demand factor suggests that planners and engineers have assessed the consumption behaviors typical of such residential setups, and found that not all units will use peak capacity simultaneously. As a result, it allows for efficient infrastructure planning and resource allocation without overbuilding for peak demand. The other percentages indicate different levels of demand, but for 15 dwelling units, 40% strikes a balance based on common practices in the field, thus serving as the most suitable and realistic demand factor in this scenario. This choice aligns with the practical expectations of residential energy consumption, providing a