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Can anyone explain to me why is it that the multiplus 3kW inverter is rated at 3000VA at 25°C but at the same temperature it is only rated for 2400W? To me, VA and W are calculated the same by taking voltage and multiplying it by the amperage. So I am now wondering how these two values can be so far off from one another when they historically are the same.
Short answer; Power factor. Depending on the type of equipment being powered (capacitative/ inductive/ resistive) the sine wave of the current is not in step with the sine wave of the voltage. It can be behind (lagging) or ahead (leading). VA x PF = W. And the figure quoted by Victron for their inverters is at a PF of 0.8 (3000x 0.8= 2400).
For a purely resistive load the two waveforms are in step and power factor will be unity (1) so VA= W, but very few loads are purely resistive.
Watts (W) and volt-amperes (VA) are units of electrical power measurement. Difference between volt amp and watt are - Watts indicate "real power," while volt amperes signify "apparent power."
