Calculating Fan Power Using an Ohm Meter: Is it Possible?

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Calculating the power of a standing fan using an ohm meter is challenging due to the fan's inductive nature. While resistance, voltage, and current can be measured, the formulas P = I^2 * R and P = I * U may not yield accurate results for inductive loads. The discussion emphasizes the need for additional tools, like an oscilloscope or a specialized meter, to measure phase angle and real power. It is noted that the actual power consumed by the fan will be slightly less than the motor power due to energy conversion losses. Accurate power measurement requires understanding both the inductive characteristics and the efficiency of the fan.
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Hi guys

I suddenly think of a question. In my home, there's a standing fan which is old so I cannot see the nominal power on the label. With a ohm meter, can I identify the power of the fan? The meter can measure resistance R, potential U and current I of an AC power supply.
 
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Current and voltage are what you need to measure.
 
P = I^2 * R
 
I am afraid those above formulae can only applied for the pure resistance appliances such as heaters or filament bulbs. The fan is not the case, it has inductance.
 
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P = I \cdot U would be ok.
 
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P=UIcos\ \phi even better.
 
thanks all for posting here. Then my question is how can I identify the phase lag angular phi with only a VAOhm meter?
 
You would need an o-scope or something like a hand held Fluke meter.
 
Power=I*U

this will give you the power produced by the motor

but it will not give the real power of the fan...

which is power=Tw

fan power will be a little less than motor power and this due fraction(energy conv.)
 
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