What unit is typically used to measure electrical power in a residential setting?

The unit typically used to measure electrical power in a residential setting is the watt. Power, in terms of electricity, is defined as the rate at which electrical energy is consumed or converted into another form of energy. In residential applications, wattage indicates how much energy an appliance uses when it is operating.

For example, light bulbs are rated in watts, which helps homeowners gauge energy consumption and expenses. When calculating electrical usage on a monthly utility bill, the kilowatt-hour (kWh) can be derived from the watt measurement, showing how much electrical energy is consumed over a specific period.

Understanding the role of the watt is crucial for anyone working in electrical contracting, as it forms the basis for assessing energy needs and ensuring that electrical systems are designed to handle expected loads efficiently. Other units, such as ohms, volts, and amperes, play significant roles in electrical theory but specifically describe resistance, potential difference, and current, respectively, rather than power directly.