What is one method to improve a low power factor of below .80?

Improving a low power factor, which is defined as the ratio of real power (used to do work) to apparent power (the total power flowing in the circuit), is often achieved by adding capacitors to the circuit. Capacitors provide reactive power, which helps to offset the inductive effects of loads such as motors and transformers. This addition reduces the overall reactance in the system and can raise the power factor closer to 1.0, thereby improving efficiency and reducing energy losses.

In practical terms, if the power factor is low, it typically indicates that there is a significant amount of inductive loading. By introducing capacitors, the phase angle between voltage and current can be adjusted, effectively correcting the power factor. This can lead to lower utility bills and improved performance of electrical systems.

The other methods, such as adding resistors or reducing voltage, do not effectively correct a low power factor, and increasing current flow would likely exacerbate the issue rather than resolve it.