Residence Power Meter And Reactive Loads Question ?

Dec 24, 2009 2 Replies

Hi,



Think I have a very basic understanding of VA, Power Factor, etc. but was wondering about this:



Even though most of the load in a typical residence is probably all resistive, how does the power meter outside "decide" what's reactive and what's resistive ?



It measures the total current going into the house, doesn't it ?



But you should, I think, be charged Only for the current consumed/required by all the resistive loads. Is this true ?



Does it just measure total VA, and assume a Power Factor ?



If someone a lot better at this stuff could explain this for me, would be most appreciative.



Thanks, and Happy Holidays, Bob


There was a long thread here "Balancing the Breaker Box" recently. Read that. It should pretty much answer your questions.

The meter measures true power, so the power factor of the load has no effect on the charges.

Join the Discussion

Have something to add? Share your thoughts — no account required.

Didn't find your answer?

Ask the community — no account required