Power factor: Learn what power factor

Learn what power factor is, how to calculate it, and how to improve it for AC power systems. Find out the difference between real power , apparent power , and complex power , and the effects of power factor on current, voltage, and energy loss. Power factor correction brings the power factor of an AC power circuit closer to 1 by supplying or absorbing reactive power, adding capacitors or inductors that act to cancel the inductive or capacitive effects of the load, respectively. Learn what power factor is and how to calculate it for AC circuits with resistance, capacitor and inductor. Download a free power factor calculator tool to find the optimal value for any load. Power factor is important because a low power factor leads to increased losses, reduced system capacity, and higher electricity costs. Maintaining a high power factor improves energy efficiency, reduces strain on the electrical system, and helps in maintaining voltage stability across the power network.