FAQ
6. Your Burning Questions Answered
Let's tackle some common questions about power factor:
Q: What's the difference between real power, apparent power, and reactive power?
A: Real power (kW) is the power that actually does work, like running a motor or heating a stove. Apparent power (kVA) is the total power supplied by the utility, including both real power and reactive power. Reactive power (kVAR) is the power that oscillates between the source and the load, without doing any useful work. Power factor is the ratio of real power to apparent power, indicating how efficiently the power is being used.
Q: How can I improve the power factor in my home?
A: In most homes, the power factor is generally not a major concern. However, if you have a lot of inductive loads, such as motors or fluorescent lights, you can consider using energy-efficient appliances and LED lighting. These appliances typically have a higher power factor and draw less reactive power. For more significant improvements, consult with an electrician.
Q: What is the ideal power factor?
A: Ideally, you want a power factor as close to 1 as possible. However, a power factor of 0.95 or higher is generally considered acceptable. Utility companies often penalize customers with power factors below a certain threshold, so it's important to maintain a healthy power factor to avoid these penalties.
Q: Can power factor be too high?
A: While rare, it is possible to have a "leading" power factor caused by excessive capacitive loads. This can also cause problems, although typically less severe than a lagging power factor. The goal is to achieve a power factor as close to unity (1) as possible, indicating that the voltage and current are in phase.
