Electrical Inspection, Testing and Certification Practice Exam 2025 – Comprehensive All-in-One Guide for Exam Success!

The primary purpose of a power factor correction capacitor is to improve the efficiency of an electrical system. In alternating current (AC) systems, power factor is a measure of how effectively electrical power is being used. A low power factor indicates that a significant portion of the electrical power is being wasted, primarily due to reactive power caused by inductive loads like motors and transformers.

Power factor correction capacitors are introduced into the circuit to offset this reactive power. By providing a leading reactive power, they improve the overall power factor of the system. This enhancement results in a more efficient usage of electrical energy, reduces the demand on the power supply, and can lower energy costs. In addition to improving system efficiency, a higher power factor decreases line losses and allows for better utilization of the existing electrical infrastructure.

The other options, while relevant to electrical systems, do not capture the primary function of power factor correction capacitors as accurately. Reducing circuit load does not directly relate to power factor correction, as the capacitors are used to manage reactive power rather than simply reduce load. Stabilizing voltage levels may occur as a secondary benefit, but it is not the main purpose of these capacitors. Enhancing safety measures is also a different focus, as power factor correction primarily deals