--- title: What is the difference between an AC motor and a DC motor? description: Power = voltage x current for direct current (DC motor) systems. For alternating current (AC motors) systems the instantaneous voltage and current are constantly changing (alternating in the form of a sine wave). --- [Skip to content](https://help.gibraltarbuildingproducts.com/en/knowledge/please-discuss-watts.-please-discuss-amps.-please-discuss-ac-motors.-please-discuss-dc-motors#main-content) English Show submenu for translations ![GBAD Full Color.png](https://blog.stealthbond.com/hubfs/GBAD%20Full%20Color.png) Open main navigation Close main navigation - English Show submenu for translations - Go to www.gibraltarbuildingproducts.com Go to www.gibraltarbuildingproducts.com Hello. How can we help you? - There are no suggestions because the search field is empty. 1. [Help Center](https://help.gibraltarbuildingproducts.com/en/knowledge?hsLang=en) 2. 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There is a power factor that is based on the phase angle between the current and voltage that must be included in the power equation for an AC system. This power factor is always less than 1.0 in an AC motor and can be as low as 0.5 or even lower. 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