From
VAVolt-Ampere
The volt-ampere equals one watt for purely resistive loads, but differs from watts for inductive or capacitive AC loads. Used for transformer, UPS and generator sizing โ which must handle apparent power, not just real power.
Real-world: Home UPS: 600โ1500 VA. Transformer: kVA ratings. Motor power factor typically 0.8 โ 1 kW motor = 1.25 kVA.
Read full volt-ampere reference โ