How to Calculate The Generator Power Capacity Appropriately

13 November 2023

Sobat Honda definitely knows how important electricity is in human life. Its existence makes many activities easier, from lighting to turning on various electronic items. But what happens if the power goes out suddenly? Of course Sobat Honda has to have a generator, right? Before buying it, Sobat Honda must be sure to know how to calculate the required generator power capacity. 

Don't take it for granted, the understanding of how to calculate generator power capacity is very necessary so that Sobat Honda could buy a generator with the right capacity. Of course, it is useless if Sobat Honda buys a generator that is below the capacity needed for some activities, isn't it?

The goal of purchasing a generator is not achieved because daily activities are disrupted. Then also understand that purchasing a generator should not be done carelessly. Sobat Honda needs to make a comparison so that the generator is able to work optimally and can be used for a long period of time.

Generator from Honda Power Products can be used as an alternative if Sobat Honda are confused about which one to choose. From the materials which are made to the technology installed in the generator, everything has the best quality that can be guaranteed.

Honda Power Products also offers various generator specifications that can meet the needs of Sobat Honda. The examples are like Genset - EU22i, Genset - EU30is, Generator - EU70is, and many more. Straight to visit Honda Power Products to find the best generator that Sobat Honda needs!

While looking for a generator, don't forget to learn how to calculate its power to avoid making mistakes. Read more below!

The Meaning of Generator Capacity

Before understanding how to calculate generator power capacity appropriately, Make Sure Sobat Honda has understood the basic information about the generator capacity. The term generator capacity refers to the generator's ability to produce electrical power measured in certain units.

Read Also: Is It Safe To Run The Generator 24 Hours? Find Out Here!

This concept is very important because as it assists Sobat Honda in precisely ascertaining the requisite power is needed to drive the equipment and the electrical load that will be supplied using the generator.

Sobat Honda needs to understand that there are two main terms used to measure the capacity of the generator, called kVa (Kilo Volt Ampere) and kW (Kilowatt). Both have different roles so a good understanding will help Sobat Honda in determining the generator power capacity appropriately. 

The terms kVA and kW

As mentioned previously, kVA and kW have their respective roles severally when measuring the generator capacity. To provide a clearer picture, try to pay attention to the explanation below here.

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1. kVa (Kilo Volt Ampere)

kVa or kiloVolt-Ampere is actually a unit of measurement used in the context of power calculations, especially in measuring power in electrical equipment such as generators. This unit is an important parameter in evaluating the power capability required or produced by electrical equipment.

In the context of generators, kVA measures the capacity of the generator or how much electrical load the generator can handle without experiencing overloading. However, it is important to understand the difference between kVA (kilovolt-amperes) and kW (kilowatts).

kVA measures apparent power, encompassing an active power component (kW) and a reactive power component (kVAR). kVA describes the total power used or produced by equipment, meanwhile kW only describes the active power that has been used or generated are effectively works. 

Therefore, in its role in calculating the generator power, kVA gives away the information about the total capacity of the generator required to power a particular assessment. If Sobat Honda already knows the total power, then the planning and selecting the generator will be so much easier.

2. kW (Kilowatt)

kW or also recognized as the kilowatts, serves as a unit of measurement employed for quantifying the active power or the power that is effectively utilized for work within an electrical system.

In its role in calculating the generator power, kW is representing how much power is actually used by the electrical load that is connected to the generator. It means that kW displays the power required by equipment and devices that must be supplied by the generator to function precisely.

Therefore, the calculations of kW are very important to determine that the generator has sufficient capacity enough to handle the entire load safely without exceeding its capabilities. The use of a generator that is too small in terms of kW may not be powerful enough to activate all the connected equipment, while a generator that is too large can lead to a wastage of resources.

How to Calculate the Correct Generator Power Capacity

Now Sobat Honda knows what important units are used in calculating the power capacity of a generator. Then Sobat Honda is ready to learn how to calculate the power capacity of a generator. Follow the easy steps below!

1. Identify Electrical Loads

The first step that needs to be taken is to recognize all the equipment and electrical content that Sobat Honda needs to use the generator. Compose a list of all the devices, lights, machinery, and other equipment that Sobat Honda wants to still be functioning when a power outage occurs.

2. Determine Active Power (kW)

Then, determine the active power (kW) of each piece of equipment that Sobat Honda identified. This information is usually stated on the equipment name placard or in the associated technical specifications. Make sure to accurately record the active power of each existing equipment.

3. Determine the Power Factor (Cosφ)

Understanding the power factor (Cosφ) is very important when calculating the required generator capacity because the power factor influences the apparent power (kVA), which in turn will impact the size and capacity of the generator required. The power factor refers to the ratio between active power (kW) and apparent power (kVA). Typically, the power factor for common loads stands at 0.8.

4. Calculate Visible Power (kVA)

Visible power, aka kVa, can be calculated using the following formula:

kVa = total active power (kW) / load power factor

To accommodate an accurate illustration, try to visualize that Sobat Honda has a generator intended to accommodate power to several pieces of equipment with a total active power (kW) of 100 kW and a load power factor of 0.8. The calculation would then be proceed as follows below :

kVa = total active power (kW) / load power factor

kVa = 100 kW / 0,8 

= 125 kVA

So the visible power, aka the power capacity required by the generator in this example, is 125 kVA.

How? Does Sobat Honda understand well how to calculate the correct generator power to meet your needs? Once Sobat Honda knows the power capacity required, selecting a generator becomes easier. Sobat Honda can immediately choose a quality generator offered by Honda Power Products.

Read Also: 11 Ways To Properly Maintain A Genset

As a global brand that is trusted to satisfy people's technological equipment needs, Honda Power Products only presents the best products. That's why choosing a generator from Honda Power Products will make it easier for you to deal with emergencies when a power outage occurs.

So don't hesitate to contact an authorized dealer Honda Power Products to explore the wide selection of generators available right now!

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