Equipment operating with a poor power factor may result in ___.

Equipment operating with a poor power factor may result in ___.

• A. A reduced lifespan
• B. Increased efficiency
• C. Either a or b
• D. Neither a nor b

Answer: (A)

When power factor is poor, more current is needed to deliver the same real power. That extra current increases I^2R losses in conductors and equipment, causing more heat. Sustained heating can stress insulation and components, accelerating wear and reducing the equipment’s life. It doesn’t make things more efficient; in fact, efficiency typically worsens due to the additional losses from the increased current. Therefore, the outcome that best fits is a reduced lifespan. The option suggesting increased efficiency isn’t correct because poor power factor doesn’t improve performance, and the combination options aren’t applicable.

When power factor is poor, more current is needed to deliver the same real power. That extra current increases I^2R losses in conductors and equipment, causing more heat. Sustained heating can stress insulation and components, accelerating wear and reducing the equipment’s life. It doesn’t make things more efficient; in fact, efficiency typically worsens due to the additional losses from the increased current. Therefore, the outcome that best fits is a reduced lifespan. The option suggesting increased efficiency isn’t correct because poor power factor doesn’t improve performance, and the combination options aren’t applicable.