I have a number of motor loads, electronic loads, CFL and HID lighting at my land running off portable generators. The power factor on some of these items is horrendous, especially with the HID and CFL lights, measured as low as .26%. For instance, one 50W light uses almost 1.5 amps, which is killing me having to run multiple generators all night. I've been reading on the internet that capacitors will correct power factor, is this as simple as installing a capacitor across line and neutral, and if so, would capacitors from HVAC equipment work? I have a ton of them and get them for free when I scrap. As always, thanks for your help.

Ok, so I have a little issue ever since I replaced some outlets and a switch in my kitchen. I probably should first note that this is an old house so the wiring is a little different than most houses now. I replaced 3 outlets and a wall switch. One of those outlets was in a box with a switch that controls the light above the sink. The light switch still works but the outlet in the box with it doesn't. Also the outlet to the right of that one isn't working either but the other ones that are on the circuit with it are. I should also note that there is only one wire that is hot in the combo box and that is the black one in the middle with electrical tape on it. Everything was working fine until I hooked that switch and new outlet up. I read somewhere about removing the jumpers on the new outlets. I think the old 1950 outlets didnt have jumpers. Has anyone had an issue similar to the this one, or could someone possibly help me out on what I am doing wrong. Much appreciated. Thanks