Kilovolt-Ampere (KVA) is a term for rating electrical devices. Many generator manufactures quote a ‘power factor’ which can range from 0.8 to 1.0. Power Factor is a unit of measurement to calculate the useable power of a generator. With all Honda and Yamaha Inverter Generators, they have a power factor of 1, which means a 2kva model will produce a maximum of 2000 watts. To work out the usable wattage of a generator, us the this formula :- KVA x 1000 x Power Factor = Usable Power (watts)

Some appliances, like light globes, have a clearly marked wattage. However, most give the required number of watts (the rated power) on an attached compliance plate. In cases where the appliance only refers to required amps simply convert to watts (amps x 240)

In addition, appliances with electric motors such as drills, sanders, polishers and power saws need an extra boost of watts at start up. This can be substantially higher than the operating figure printed on the compliance plate, and depends on the type of motor. Split phase motors require 8-10 times their rated power for start up and capacitor motors need 4.5 times their rated power to start. The more common series motors need 1.5 times their rated power to start up. If you are unsure, check with the appliance manufacturer.