Save Energy by PF corrected LED Lights

Overview

Here is our second tip on how to save electricity and energy: use PF (power factor) corrected LED lights instead of older lighting like CFLs or incandescent bulbs. Before purchasing any LED light, check its power factor. Technically, choose lights with a PF above 90% (PF > 0.9).

What is power factor?

Power factor describes how effectively a device turns the current it draws into useful work. It is a number between 0 and 1. A device with a PF close to 1 draws only about the current it actually needs. A device with a low PF draws extra current that does no useful work but still flows through the wiring and the electricity network.

Many low-cost LED lamps and drivers have a poor power factor. Individually the effect is small, but in a building with hundreds of light fittings, low-PF lighting increases the current flowing in the wiring, adds to losses and can affect how your electricity is billed.

Why it matters for your bill

• Higher current for the same light output means more heat and losses in cables and equipment.
• For connections billed on apparent energy (kVAh) rather than only kWh, a low power factor increases the units you are charged for.
• Poor power factor across a facility can also reduce the capacity available on your transformer and wiring.

How to choose better LED lights

• Check the PF on the label or datasheet and prefer products with PF above 0.9.
• Look for low THD (total harmonic distortion) in the driver specification, which usually goes together with a good power factor.
• Prefer BIS-certified products from reputable manufacturers, with a clear warranty.
• Buy "Made in India" where possible for better availability of service and spares, and a longer useful life.
• Compare lumens per watt, not only wattage, to get more light for less energy.

Need help?

If you want more details on how to select LED lights, or how lighting and power factor affect your electricity bill and solar sizing, write to us and the Chirayu Power team will be happy to help.

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