Amps vs Watts: Apparent Power vs Real Power

Manufacturers publish electrical current in amperes, not true real power in watts. Multiplying volts by amps gives apparent power in volt-amperes (VA). Real power in watts equals volts times amps times the power factor. Single-phase induction motors commonly run at a power factor between about 0.75 and 0.88 under continuous fluid load, so treating published VA figures as if they were watts overstates true active power draw.

Kasco D-Series Electrical Draw

ModelHPVoltageAmpsApparent Power (VA)
Kasco 2400D1/2 HP120V5.4A648 VA
Kasco 3400D3/4 HP120V6.6A792 VA
Kasco 3400HD3/4 HP208-240V3.1A744 VA
Kasco 4400D1 HP120V9.1A1,092 VA
Kasco 4400HD1 HP208-240V4.5A1,080 VA
Verification status: Amps and voltage figures are taken directly from Kasco Marine specification tables. Estimated monthly kWh and dollar costs are derived arithmetic using an assumed continuous-run duty cycle and a representative electricity rate; true power factor has not been independently bench-measured for every model, so treat cost estimates as an approximate range, not a guarantee.

Reducing Electricity Cost: Control Options

  • Thermostat control panels (such as Kasco C-10): Cut power when air temperature rises above a set point, reducing runtime hours.
  • Thermostat plus timer panels (such as Kasco C-20): Combine temperature sensing with an off-peak timing window for further savings.
  • Duty-cycling pulse controllers: A category of third-party accessory that cycles the motor on and off on a programmed schedule to reduce average power draw. Specific brands and duty-cycle percentages vary by manufacturer; obtain verified performance figures directly from whichever manufacturer you are considering rather than relying on a single unverified number.
Data Provenance: Electrical specifications verified against Kasco Marine primary specification tables.
Author: Jon -- M.S. Hydrology, Principal Hydrologist.

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