Appliance Wattage Calculator

Calculate the power consumption of your appliances based on voltage, current, and power factor. This helps you understand your electrical usage and plan your energy needs.

Select standard voltage or enter custom value
Current draw in amperes (found on appliance label)
Select typical power factor or enter custom value

Typical Power Factors

Appliance Type Typical Power Factor Notes
Resistive Loads 1.0 Heaters, incandescent lights
Inductive Loads 0.8-0.9 Motors, transformers
Electronic Devices 0.95-0.98 Computers, TVs, power supplies
Fluorescent Lights 0.5-0.9 Varies by ballast type

Understanding Power Factor:

  • Power factor indicates how effectively electrical power is converted into useful work
  • A power factor of 1.0 means 100% of the power is used effectively
  • Lower power factors indicate more reactive power and less efficient power usage
  • Power factor correction can improve energy efficiency

Safety Considerations:

  • Always check appliance ratings before connecting to power
  • Use appropriate circuit breakers and wiring
  • Consider power factor when sizing electrical systems
  • Regular maintenance helps maintain efficiency