Apparent, real & reactive power — PF-based, power triangle, and voltage/current methods.
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Typical Power Factor Reference — Common Electrical Loads
| Load Type | Typical PF |
|---|---|
| Resistive heaters | 1.00 |
| Incandescent lamps | 1.00 |
| LED lighting (quality driver) | 0.90–0.95 |
| Fluorescent (electronic ballast) | 0.85–0.95 |
| Induction motors — full load | 0.85–0.90 |
| Induction motors — partial load | 0.70–0.85 |
| Synchronous generators | 0.80 |
| HVAC compressors | 0.75–0.90 |
| UPS systems | 0.80–0.90 |
| Welding equipment | 0.35–0.60 |
| Switching power supplies | 0.60–0.95 |
Disclaimer — Important
This calculator is an independent tool intended to assist electrical professionals with power conversion estimates. Results are based on fundamental AC power theory — the kVA, kW, kVAR, and power factor relationships per IEEE and ANSI standards — for educational and estimation purposes only.
Results must be verified by a licensed electrical engineer or electrician and reviewed against applicable NEC 2023 (NFPA 70) articles, equipment nameplates, manufacturer specifications, and local codes before use in design, permitting, or construction.
This tool does not account for harmonic distortion, displacement vs. true power factor, transformer derating, conductor sizing, or installation-specific derating factors. For generator and transformer sizing, always consult the manufacturer's application guide and the applicable NEC articles (Art. 445 — Generators, Art. 450 — Transformers, Art. 220 — Branch-Circuit Calculations).
NEC® and NFPA 70® are registered trademarks and copyrighted publications of the National Fire Protection Association.