Power Factor Correction Calculator
Capacitor size needed to correct a load's power factor.
Enter your values
ⓘ Live results
Results
- Required capacitor rating
- 55.32 kVAR
- Original apparent power
- 133.33 kVA
- New apparent power
- 105.26 kVA
Quick answer
Required kVAR = P x (tan(cos^-1 pf1) - tan(cos^-1 pf2)).
Qc = P (tan(phi1) - tan(phi2))
How to use the Power Factor Correction Calculator
- 1Enter the real power drawn by the load.
- 2Enter the current power factor and the target power factor.
- 3Read the capacitor bank size (in kVAR) needed to make the correction.
Worked example
Using the values the calculator loads with:
Inputs
- Real power100 kW
- Current power factor0.75
- Target power factor0.95
Results
- Required capacitor rating55.32 kVAR
- Original apparent power133.33 kVA
- New apparent power105.26 kVA
Frequently asked questions
Why correct power factor?
A higher power factor reduces apparent power draw, cutting utility demand charges and losses.
What causes low power factor?
Inductive loads like motors and transformers are the most common cause in industrial settings.
About this calculator
- Built and reviewed by James Whitfield · How we build and test calculators
- Report an error
Results are estimates for general information. For medical, legal, structural or financial decisions, confirm with a qualified professional.