Convert Apparent Power Units (VA, kVA, MVA)

In AC power systems, apparent power is a critical measurement that represents the total power load on a system. It's the combination of real power (which does work) and reactive power (which sustains magnetic fields). Our free Apparent Power Converter is a vital tool for electrical engineers, system designers, and technicians who need to perform quick and accurate conversions between Volt-Amperes (VA), kilovolt-amperes (kVA), and megavolt-amperes (MVA).

Correctly calculating apparent power is essential for sizing transformers, uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), generators, and wiring. This tool removes the risk of manual error from your calculations, helping you ensure system safety and efficiency. Simply input your value and convert with a single click.

How to Use the Apparent Power Converter

1. Enter Value: Type the numeric value of the apparent power you want to convert.
2. Select Units: Choose your starting unit (e.g., VA) and your target unit (e.g., kVA) from the dropdown menus.
3. Convert: Click the "Convert Power" button to see the immediate result.
4. Copy Result: Use the "Copy Result" button to easily save the converted value for your work.

Frequently Asked Questions About Apparent Power

What is the purpose of apparent power?

The main purpose of apparent power (measured in VA) is to represent the total power that must be supplied to a circuit, encompassing both the useful 'real power' (W) and the non-working 'reactive power' (VAR). It is used to correctly size electrical equipment like transformers, generators, and wiring, ensuring they can handle the total current without overheating, regardless of the power factor.

How do you convert real power to apparent power?

You can convert real power (Watts) to apparent power (VA) using the power factor (PF) of the circuit. The formula is: Apparent Power (VA) = Real Power (W) / Power Factor. For example, if a motor consumes 800 W of real power at a power factor of 0.8, the apparent power is 800 W / 0.8 = 1000 VA or 1 kVA.

What is the difference between apparent power and reactive power?

Apparent power (S) is the total power in an AC circuit, representing the vector sum of real power (P) and reactive power (Q). Reactive power (Q) is just one component of this total power, specifically the energy that oscillates back and forth to sustain magnetic or electric fields. Think of it like a glass of beer: apparent power is the total volume of the glass, real power is the beer you drink, and reactive power is the foam on top.

Do you pay for real power or apparent power?

Residential customers typically pay for real power, measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh). However, industrial and commercial customers often pay for both. Their bills may include demand charges based on the peak apparent power (kVA) drawn from the grid, as well as penalties for a low power factor. This encourages them to operate more efficiently by minimizing reactive power.

How to get apparent power?

There are two common ways to get apparent power (S). First, by multiplying the circuit's RMS voltage (V) by the RMS current (I): S = V × I. The result is in Volt-Amperes (VA). Second, if you know the real power (P) and reactive power (Q), you can calculate it using the power triangle formula, which is based on the Pythagorean theorem: S = √(P² + Q²).