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Post by MikeOrtiz on Feb 19, 2017 10:44:44 GMT -8
Should one use Apparent Power (VA) or Real Power (W) of loads (i.e. refigerators, air conditioners, etc.) to determine actual power needs in an off-the-grid solar setup? For example, if my air conditioner is rated for 400W Real Power, but uses 800VA apparent power because of inductive/capacitive components, which measurement actually matters when it comes to determining battery runtime and in-turn determine my solar needs? Thanks!
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Post by spiderbob on Feb 19, 2017 20:46:01 GMT -8
How about startup power, the electric power initially required by the motor (with the motor at standstill) is about 150% of rated power. Too many underestimate their power needs by not including this.
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Post by rabird on Feb 20, 2017 4:18:22 GMT -8
my understanding is W are used for battery/solar and VA is used for inverter.
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Post by spiderbob on Feb 20, 2017 7:49:52 GMT -8
OK, W / VA; The power drawn by computing equipment is expressed in Watts or Volt-Amps (VA). The power in Watts is the real power drawn by the equipment. Volt-Amps are called the “apparent power” and are the product of the voltage applied to the equipment times the current drawn by the equipment, so depending on what industry you work in these terms can and do have different meanings. I suggest, Mike, use a more simpler method that is accepted for determining solar setup, although you are definitely on the right track.
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