Equipment nameplates often list kVA; your loads consume kW. This guide walks through the kVA to kW converter: apparent power in kVA, power factor as a decimal, and real power in kilowatts.
Benefits
- Core formula: kW = kVA × power factor.
- Separates apparent (kVA) from real (kW) power in AC systems.
- Typical PF ranges for resistive, motor, and mixed loads built in.
How it works
- Enter apparent power in kVA from the generator, UPS, or transformer plate.
- Add power factor (0–1)—0.9 for 90%, 1.0 for resistive loads.
- Read real power in kW—the useful work the source can deliver at that PF.
FAQ
How do I convert kVA to kW?
kW = kVA × PF. Example: 10 kVA at 0.85 power factor → 10 × 0.85 = 8.5 kW real power. At PF 1.0, kVA and kW match; lower PF means less real power for the same apparent rating.
What is a typical power factor?
Resistive heaters and incandescent loads are near 1.0. Induction motors and fluorescent lighting often run 0.7–0.9. Mixed commercial panels may average 0.8–0.95. Use measured PF from a meter when available.
Why does kVA matter if I pay for kW?
Conductors, breakers, and transformers are sized on apparent power (current × voltage), not real power alone. A 10 kVA genset at 0.7 PF delivers only 7 kW—oversizing on kVA without PF check leads to disappointed runtime or tripped breakers.
Technical specifications
- Real power kW = kVA × PF.
- PF = kW ÷ kVA (0–1 for lagging unity).
- Apparent power kVA = kW ÷ PF (reverse check).
- Related: kva-to-kw, inverter-sizing, amps-to-watts, power-factor.