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Power factor is often regarded as 'electrical circuit' efficiency - varying from almost zero to one [one being 100% efficient - a perfect match between power drawn from the network and useful power for the task. Also known as power factor unity].

It is a way of describing how efficiently electrical power is consumed. It refers to power in an alternating [AC] electrical current; either for a single piece of electrical equipment or for all of the electrical equipment located at one site.

The mains voltage is fixed and therefore to achieve a given power from a circuit, then more current needs to be driven through the circuit when the power factor is low than would be necessary if the power factor was high [close to power factory unity - 1].

If the power factor ration is under 0.85, it is generally considered to be poor. A power factor correction would typically achieve between 0.95 and 0.98.

What is power factor correction?
A technique to compensate for poor power factor and therefore optimise the transfer of useful power into the electrical equipment on site.

What causes poor power factor?
The type of electrical load being supplied. Electricity supply has to be converted into light, heat, ventilation or electrical power for operation of machinery in order to be utilised. Many loads are characterised as being 'inductive' and it is these loads that cause poor power factor. The main culprits of which are electric motors and fluorescent lighting - almost any device that generates a magnetic field will have a poor power factor.

How can I remedy poor power factor on my business premises?
Firstly, a power engineer from Hawksford must conduct a site survey in which power analysis monitoring equipment will be fitted to your incoming mains power. A series of tests will be conducted to measure the power quality, current and loads used by the electrical equipment used by your business on your site.

Once the seriousness has been identified, Hawksford shall design their e3 energy efficiency system [a power saving system to reduce electricity bills] to correct the poor power factor; which having being ordered and manufactured to specifically meet your requirements; will later be installed on your site.