The Difference Between kW and kVA
When renting generators, you will often hear the units kVA and KW. Both these units are used to represent electric current. kVA standards for Kilovolt amperes and KW standards for kilowatts. When you Rent a Generator, you will often hear the capacities of generators in kVA? But people not acquainted with power generators are often confused about kVA and KW. So let’s find out here.
Difference between kVA and KW
KW is used to represent actual power and kVA is used to represent the apparent power of an electrical system. KW is real power that actually does work. KVA is the apparent power and only a small fraction of it does work. In DC, the KVA and KW are equal. While in AC systems, KW and KVA are different.
Formula for converting kVA into kW
Apparent power (kVA) x power factor (pf) = actual power (kW)
e.g. 1000 kVA x 0.8 = 800 kW
Formula for converting kW into kVA
Actual power (kW) / power factor (pf) = apparent power (kVA)
e.g. 1000 kW / 0.8 = 1250 kVA
Still confused? Not to worry. Get in touch with Modern Energy Rental. Our power rental experts will guide you and help you choose the best generator for rent for your application.
