About

In regions utilizing 220V to 240V mains electricity (Europe, Asia, South America), calculating load requirements is critical for preventing tripped breakers and ensuring appliance efficiency. While heating elements behave simply, inductive loads like washing machines, air conditioners, and refrigerators introduce complexity due to the phase shift between voltage and current.

This calculator addresses that complexity by incorporating the Power Factor (PF). Standard calculators often assume a PF of 1.0 (perfect efficiency), which underestimates the current required by motors. This tool allows precise input of voltage (adjustable for 230V or 240V standards) and Power Factor to provide the true current draw derived from the single-phase AC formula.

Formulas

For Single-Phase AC circuits, the current is inversely proportional to both voltage and power factor.

I = PV × PF

Where:

PF = Power Factor (0 < PF ≤ 1.0).
V = AC RMS Voltage (typically 220, 230, or 240).

Reference Data

Appliance	Approx Power (W)	Power Factor (PF)	Current @ 220V (A)
Electric Heater	2000	1.0	9.09
Incandescent Bulb	60	1.0	0.27
LED Driver	20	0.9	0.10
Washing Machine	500	0.65	3.50
Refrigerator	150	0.7	0.97
Air Conditioner	3500	0.8	19.89
PC Power Supply	400	0.95	1.91
Microwave	1200	0.9	6.06

Frequently Asked Questions

Power Factor represents the efficiency of the power usage. Resistive loads (heaters, toasters) have a PF of 1.0 (100% efficient usage). Inductive loads (motors, transformers) consume "Real Power" to work but also draw "Reactive Power" to create magnetic fields, lowering the PF (e.g., 0.7) and increasing the total current drawn.

This depends on your country. Continental Europe generally uses 230V. The UK and Australia are 230V/240V. Parts of South America and Asia use 220V. Check your appliance label; however, the difference in calculation is usually minor (within 5-10%).

If an appliance has a low Power Factor, the utility company must supply more current to deliver the same amount of useful working power (Watts). This "wasted" current still heats up wires and trips breakers.

It is often listed on the technical specification sticker near the power cord. If not listed, 1.0 is safe for heaters/lights, and 0.8 is a safe average for electronics and motors.