VA is an abbreviation of the electrical term volt-amps, and indicates a capacity of power. For example 240 volts x 12.5 amps = 3000VA. It is used by UPS manufacturers more often than Watts because it makes the UPS sound bigger.
What is the difference between VA and Watts?
Put simply
- VA is a measure of power supplied
- Watt is a measure of power consumed
Not really very simple is it?
The main thing you have to remember is that the Watt rating will always be lower than the VA rating. As manufacturers market their equipment based on the VA rating you should look closely at the Watt rating of your prospective purchase. Below we have listed four different APC UPS models, all rated at 1500VA but all with different Watt ratings
There is a technical explanation for the difference, it relates to 'Power Factor' but it is quite an indepth topic which we wont be covering here. The important thing that you understand is that the power figure that you need to work off in determining which size UPS is right for you is the Watt figure.
