RV FEATURE
When it comes to generators , there really is no such thing as one size fits all . In part three of our caravan electronics series , we will look at generators . How they are rated . What they are actually capable of running . And , at the end , we hope to give you some good advice about which one is right for you .
GENERATOR RATING
As a rule , generators are rated in watts ( W ), kilowatts ( kW ), or kilovolt amps ( kVA ). Given the majority of the appliances we run from generators are rated in watts , we will use watts from here on .
In terms of converting kilowatts to watts , 1kW is equal to 1000W . Pretty simple . Converting kilovolt amps to watts is a little more complicated .
There is this little known thing called a ‘ power factor ’. Now , if you ’ ve never heard of it , you can Google ‘ power factor ’ and have a great time reading the various heavy technical explanations .
The simplest definition I could find said power factor was defined as the difference ( or ratio ) between real power in kilowatts to the apparent power in kilovolt amps . In other words , the two are not equal and the power factor determines the difference .
Think of a glass of beer . It may appear full but the top part is just froth . The part you want to drink is below the froth .
Always look for the nominal or continuous power output when reviewing the specifications .
While a power factor can vary , as a rule , we assume it is around 0.8 when sizing generators . The formula used is kW = Power Factor ( or 0.8 ) x kVA . In the case of a generator rated at 3.5kVA , ( 3.5 x 0.8 ) it will have a rating of 2.8kW or 2800W .
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