It depends on exactly what you want to know. The measured currents are real (and determine wire size, etc.) - it's just that not all of the current is doing work. Average Volts x Average Current gives VA (VoltAmps) and multiplying that by PF gives WATTS. Most residential meters measure watts but most commercial and industrial sites have demand meters which measure peak current.
For small loads there is an inexpensive meter available that measures all of these things. However, it's only for 120VAC and a maximum of 15A.
Bookmarks