Every facility depends on reliable power distribution. However, even the most advanced electrical systems require verification to ensure that circuits aren’t overloaded and equipment is operating efficiently. That’s where a 30-day load study meter comes in.

 

A load study meter records real-world electrical usage—capturing voltage, current, and power factor data over time. By analyzing this information, facilities can identify inefficiencies, reduce downtime, and plan for system upgrades with confidence.

 

What Is a 30-Day Load Study?

A 30-day load study measures electrical demand continuously for a full month, providing a detailed profile of how energy is used throughout your facility. The recorded data helps confirm whether existing circuits can handle new loads and identifies potential issues such as unbalanced phases or power quality disturbances.

 

In simple terms, a load study answers one critical question: Is your electrical system performing safely and efficiently under real operating conditions?

 

Why Load Studies Matter

A 30-day load study is one of the simplest ways to maintain safety, reliability, and compliance within your facility’s electrical system.

 

Load studies help prevent overloaded circuits that can trip breakers, damage equipment, or even cause electrical fires. By understanding when and where power is used most, facilities can reduce peak demand charges, improve energy efficiency, and plan future expansions with confidence.

 

In fact, many facilities are required to perform a load study before making any electrical additions. According to the National Electrical Code (NEC) Section 220.87, existing loads must be measured with actual data before adding new equipment. This ensures your system can safely handle increased demand, prevents overloading, and helps avoid hazards such as overheating or equipment failure.

 

Beyond compliance, a load study provides valuable insight into your building’s true peak demand and system capacity. The data helps determine whether service panels, feeders, or switchgear can be reused, modified, or upgraded—and often uncovers opportunities for better load management and energy cost reduction.

 

Many facilities perform load studies annually or before adding large electrical loads to stay proactive and maintain code compliance. If you’re not sure which meter fits your needs, our team can help you compare options or set up a short-term rental through Lakeland Rentals to get started immediately.

 

Why DENT Leads the Industry

While several manufacturers produce quality load study equipment, DENT Instruments has established itself as a trusted standard for professionals seeking accuracy, portability, and simplicity.

 

The DENT ELITEpro Series offers:

• 30+ days of continuous data logging
• Easy setup with USB or Ethernet connectivity
• Compatibility with flexible and split-core current transformers (CTs)
• Software for graphing, reporting, and exporting data

 

DENT meters are ideal for energy audits, submetering, and facility benchmarking—making them a top choice for engineers, maintenance teams, and contractors conducting temporary or long-term studies.

 

Other Brands Available from Lakeland

Lakeland Engineering also supplies 30-day load study meters from AEMC, Fluke, and Dranetz:

• AEMC: Known for durable field-ready instruments with intuitive operation.
• Fluke: Offers robust power analyzers with high accuracy and industrial reliability.
• Dranetz: Delivers advanced analytics for in-depth power quality and harmonic studies.

 

Whether you’re testing a small system or analyzing a full facility, Lakeland has a meter suited for your specific needs and budget.

 

Serving the Midwest with Local Support

Lakeland Engineering proudly serves customers from our four branch locations:

• Minneapolis, MN
• Omaha, NE
• Kansas City, KS
• Denver, CO

 

Our local teams provide hands-on product expertise, rentals for short-term projects, and application support for both new and returning customers.

 

The Bottom Line

A 30-day load study meter is one of the most practical tools for ensuring your electrical system is safe, efficient, and ready for future growth.

 

With trusted brands like DENT, AEMC, Fluke, and Dranetz, and Lakeland Engineering’s regional expertise, you’ll have the right tools and support to monitor your power usage with confidence.