Forum Discussion
Chum_lee
Jan 12, 2016Explorer
I agree with Matt Colie and Canadian Rainbirds. I was thinking of the same comparison. As an avid road bicycle rider for 30 years, I know that even the best world class riders/athletes can generate about 1/3 hp continuously using their legs with short bursts slightly higher.
Remember that although 1 horsepower is numerically equal to 746 watts, if you measure the wattage to run a 1 hp (120 volt) single phase motor, even the most efficient motors require about 1550 watts at full load due to mechanical/electrical conversion losses. Three phase motors are slightly more efficient.
Solar panels are looking better and better.
Chum lee
Remember that although 1 horsepower is numerically equal to 746 watts, if you measure the wattage to run a 1 hp (120 volt) single phase motor, even the most efficient motors require about 1550 watts at full load due to mechanical/electrical conversion losses. Three phase motors are slightly more efficient.
Solar panels are looking better and better.
Chum lee
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