1. What is a kVA to kWh Calculator?

Definition: This calculator converts apparent power (kVA) to energy consumption (kWh) using power factor and time duration.

Purpose: It helps electrical engineers, facility managers, and energy auditors determine actual energy usage from apparent power measurements.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( E_{kWh} \) — Energy in kilowatt-hours
• \( kVA \) — Apparent power in kilovolt-amperes
• \( PF \) — Power factor (0 to 1)
• \( t \) — Time duration in hours

Explanation: The formula converts apparent power to real power (kW) using the power factor, then multiplies by time to get energy consumption.

3. Importance of kVA to kWh Conversion

Details: Accurate conversion helps in energy billing, generator sizing, and electrical system efficiency analysis.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the apparent power in kVA, power factor (default 0.8), and time duration in hours. All values must be > 0 and power factor ≤ 1.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between kVA and kWh?
A: kVA measures apparent power (voltage × current), while kWh measures energy consumption (power × time).

Q2: Why is power factor important?
A: Power factor accounts for the phase difference between voltage and current, affecting how much apparent power becomes usable real power.

Q3: What's a typical power factor value?
A: Industrial loads typically have 0.8-0.9, while residential may be 0.95-1.0. The default 0.8 is common for commercial buildings.

Q4: Can I use this for three-phase systems?
A: Yes, if the kVA value already accounts for three-phase (line-to-line voltage × current × √3).

Q5: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It's accurate for constant loads. For varying loads, use integrated measurements over time.